Airbus Commitment To Belfast Welcomed, But Concerns Over Non-Airbus Work Persist – UUP

Ulster Unionist Economy spokesperson Diana Armstrong MLA has given a cautious welcome to Airbus's "definitive deal" to acquire parts of Spirit AeroSystems, including its Belfast operations, while expressing ongoing concerns about the future of non-Airbus related work at the site.

Ms Armstrong acknowledged the significance of the announcement, stating: "Today's news that Airbus will take over Spirit AeroSystems' Belfast operations is very welcome but concerns still remain about the non-Airbus work conducted by Spirit. This site has been a cornerstone of Northern Ireland's economy for generations, supporting thousands of highly skilled jobs and showcasing the excellence of our manufacturing sector on the global stage."

She highlighted the importance of Airbus's long-term commitment, saying: "Airbus' commitment provides much needed certainty and a strong foundation for future growth in the UK aerospace sector, especially in these challenging times for global trade. I am confident that, under Airbus' leadership, their specific operations will continue to contribute significantly to our local economy, but we need to see more assurances on the non-Airbus work."

While welcoming the stability that Airbus's involvement brings, Ms Armstrong emphasised the need for further clarity regarding the other activities currently undertaken at the Belfast facility. "The Ulster Unionist Party will continue to support efforts to strengthen our aerospace sector and ensure Northern Ireland maintains an edge in advanced manufacturing."

The acquisition by Airbus is seen as a positive step for the long-term future of the Belfast plant and the wider aerospace industry in Northern Ireland, but questions remain about the security of jobs and expertise associated with the non-Airbus contracts currently held by Spirit AeroSystems.

Casino Staff Member Left Shaken After Blade Robbery In Newry

Police are appealing for information and witnesses following a robbery at a casino in the Monaghan Street area of Newry on Sunday evening, 27th April.

At approximately 9.55pm, a man in his mid-20s entered the premises armed with a blade. He confronted a female staff member, demanding money, and subsequently fled the scene on foot with a sum of cash.

Detective Sergeant Johnston described the ordeal for the staff member, who was thankfully unharmed, as "terrifying" and understandably left her shaken.

He urged anyone who was in the Monaghan Street area last night and noticed any suspicious activity to come forward. "If you were in the area last night and noticed anything suspicious, we would ask that you call us on 101 quoting reference number 1596 27/04/25."

Detective Sergeant Johnston also appealed to residents in the vicinity. "Anyone living in this general area or nearby is also asked to review your doorbell, CCTV or dash-cam footage. Your assistance is of great importance to us in our investigation."

Police are continuing their enquiries and are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or captured any relevant footage.

You can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/

Eastwood tables motion condemning Kneecap's 'Incitement Of Violence' Against MPs

Alliance Lagan Valley MP Sorcha Eastwood has tabled a parliamentary motion condemning recent statements made by Irish rap group Kneecap, which she argues incite violence against elected representatives and imply support for proscribed terrorist organisations.

The motion acknowledges the role of art in protest but strongly rejects language that encourages violence against MPs. It specifically cites slogans such as "The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP" and "Up Hamas and Hezbollah," asserting that political disagreement should never lead to violence or support for terrorism.

Ms Eastwood stated: "Art is a powerful tool for protest and raising awareness of injustice, especially in standing with oppressed people like the Palestinians. However, we must draw the line at language that incites violence. While freedom of political expression is vital, we've seen the tragic consequences of words escalating into real harm - two MPs have been murdered in the past decade."

She emphasised the importance of responsible political discourse. "Political debate can and should be robust, but it must never descend into threats of violence or dehumanisation. Strong, passionate debate can be carried out without resorting to harmful rhetoric, and that should be expected of us all."

Ms Eastwood also highlighted the wider societal concern about online violence. "As a society, we have rightly been raising the alarm about the dangerous normalisation of violence online, particularly among young people, and we know all too well that this doesn't stay online. Words have immense power, and we must all ensure our disagreements don't incite further harm."

The motion aims to prompt a formal parliamentary condemnation of the group's remarks, and to reinforce the principle that political expression must not cross the line into incitement to violence.