24/02/2015

Other News In Brief

NI Students Break World Record

A new Guinness World Record has been set by students in Northern Ireland.

A total of 1,339 Year 7 and 8 students took part in the world's largest ever science lesson at the Odyssey Arena in Belfast. The students carried out a 'crimatography' experiment, which involved solving a crime using science.

The previous world record was set by 'The Rodillian Academy' in Yorkshire in July last year, when 982 participated.

Welcoming the record, Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry said: "I congratulate all the students here today who have come together to become world record breakers. I am pleased that the previous world record has not only been surpassed, but vastly exceeded.

"This is another example of how the Science Festival has been able to showcase our considerable Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) talent and skills, which will be key drivers behind our economy in the 21st century.

"After meeting the students who took part their enthusiasm for STEM subjects is clear for all to see. I'm sure that they will maintain this enthusiasm as they continue to study STEM subjects at school, college and university in Northern Ireland, and will ultimately seek employment in these key sectors of our local economy."

The world record was organised as part of Northern Ireland's first ever Science Festival.

Roger Wilson Called Up To Ireland Squad

Ulster Rugby player Roger Wilson has been drafted into the Ireland squad ahead of their clash against England this weekend.

The back-rower has one cap for Ireland, which he received in 2005.

The 33-year-old is one of a 36-man squad named by Ireland management on Tuesday. The match day team is expected to be revealed on Friday (27 February). If Wilson is not selected, it is thought he could be released back to Ulster for their Guinness Pro12 game against Scarlets.

Teen Re-Interviewed Over Schoolboy's Death

A 17-year-old male has been re-interviewed over the death of schoolboy Oisín McGrath.

Oisín, 13, from Co Fermanagh, was critically injured following an alleged incident while he was playing football at St Michael's College in Enniskillen earlier this month. He later died from his injuries.

It is understood the 17-year-old was questioned on Monday (23 February) on suspicion of manslaughter.

DCI Gareth Talbot, from Serious Crime Branch, said: "The youth was interviewed earlier today and at the conclusion of that interview process he was released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service."

(JP)

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