Other NI News In Brief

London Councillor Quits Over IRA Link

A Conservative councillor - based in Croydon - has quit her post after admitting she had written a book about her relationship with the IRA in the early 1970s. Maria Gatland confirmed that she is the author of 'To Take Arms: My Year with the Provisional IRA' after being confronted with her past. Mrs Gatland then offered her resignation from cabinet. The BBC has reported that Mrs Gatland moved to England, later married, and entered local politics in 2002, representing Croham.

Newry Pensioner Terrified

An elderly man in his 70s has been attacked in his home by masked burglars. It happened in Newry when three men wearing ski masks entered the house in Church Street shortly before 9.50pm. It is understood the pensioner was held down in a chair while the house was searched and a small amount of cash removed. Police have appealed for anyone with information about the incident to contact them.

Armagh Link Road Progresses

Northern Ireland Roads Minister Conor Murphy has lauded the progress on a £5.8m investment scheme in the Armagh area. The Minister revealed that the Armagh North and West Link Road is due to commence within the next five years, subject to the level of funding available and land vesting. Meeting with Armagh City and District Council, Minister Murphy said: "The Armagh East Link scheme has a preferred alignment selected and junction options have been completed. It is hoped this project will be completed within the next 10 years."

Energy Boost In Prospect

Offshore renewable energy usage in Northern Ireland took another step forward yesterday, with the appointment of a contractor to conduct further viability studies. Energy Minister Arlene Foster has sanctioned Faber Maunsell, a major UK consultancy, to undertake a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of offshore wind and marine renewables in Irish waters. A SEA is the study of environmental issues that must be taken into early consideration when developing plans and programmes with a view to promoting sustainable development.

Drugs Bust Man Charged

A 45-year-old man has been charged with drugs offences after £10,000 of cannabis was seized during a search of a house in south Belfast on Monday. The drugs were found in a house on the Ormeau Road. The man is charged with possession of cannabis and possession of cannabis with intent to supply and is to appear in court on Wednesday. Three other people arrested during the search have been released without charge.

Aer Lingus Flight Diverted Over Fault

An Aer Lingus flight from the US to Dublin has been forced to divert to New York because of a technical fault. The Airbus A330 left Orlando in Florida at 6.40pm local time yesterday and reported the fault two hours into the flight. The plane subsequently landed safely at John F Kennedy airport with 229 passengers on board. Aer Lingus said they continued their journey on a different aircraft which arrived into Dublin Airport at 3.00pm this afternoon.

Fermanagh Water Investment Announced

Northern Ireland Water has announced a £19m investment programme in Fermanagh to improve water and wastewater services in the area. The investment, announced at a Fermanagh District Council meeting late last month, relates to a number of schemes that are already underway or planned to commence within this financial year. The work includes the upgrade of Enniskillen and Derrylin Wastewater Treatment Works and various reservoir rehabilitation projects.