Adams Slammed Over Controversial Tweet

Alliance Leader Stewart Dickson has slammed Gerry Adams after the Sinn Fein leader used a racial slur on social media.

He said Mr Adams' attempted explanation of his 'N-word' use further compounded the situation.

Mr Dickson said: "For anyone to use such a term is unacceptable. But for the leader of a major political party to do so simply beggars belief. Mr Adams may have deleted his initial post but the internet never truly forgets," said Mr Dickson.

"Only a few weeks ago, Sinn Fein were comparing Mr Adams in all seriousness to civil rights hero Rosa Parks. This is proof, if it were ever needed, just how delusional that viewpoint is. The attempted explanation from him is not only historically inaccurate but deeply offensive to many."

Man Dies From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

A 60-year-old man has died from carbon monoxide poisoning.

The incident happened at a property on the Castlewellan Road in Newcastle, Co Down.

Sinn Fein's Chris Hazzard expressed his sympathies.

He said: "It has shocked and saddened the local community.

"I want to express my condolences to the family and friends of this man at this difficult time.

"Five other people, including two paramedics, were also taken to hospital as a result of this incident and I wish them a full and speedy recovery.

"The authorities must now carry out an investigation to find out exactly what happened in this incident."

Farmers Urged To Submit Single Application Online

The Department for Regional Development (DARD) is urging more farmers to join the 6,200 who have already submitted their Single Application via DARD's online service.

If 70% of Single Applications are submitted online DARD has committed to making advance payments in October 2016.

A DARD spokesperson said: "Our message to farmers during the Single Application period is 'help us to help you' by submitting your application online this year. Over 6,200 applications have been submitted online, but we need this trend to continue if we are to reach 70% online, which will result in advance payments being issued in October 2016.

"If more farmers submit their application online then less resources will be required to carry out validation checks, which means that resources can be re-directed to making more payments earlier to more farmers."

The deadline for applications is 16 May.

(CD)