Former Officers' Role In HET Slammed

While the PSNI Chief Constable, Sir Hugh Orde, (pictured) has defended the Historical Enquiries Team (HET) - which he first established - saying it has helped many families come to terms with the past, an academic report has criticised the PSNI's chosen method of investigating unsolved murders, claiming it is fundamentally flawed. It said there are too many former RUC officers on the and therefore it lacks true independence - particularly when investigating killings carried out by the police and British Army. The pressure group, Relatives for Justice is already refusing to co-operate with the HET saying it is scandalous that former Special Branch officers and a British soldier are involved and calls it a cynical PR exercise.

Aer Lingus Flying High From Belfast

Aer Lingus says it is pleased that is has achieved a 42% share on the Belfast to London Heathrow route. Seven months after it began flying between the two cities, the airline says it is well on its way to taking half the market share from BMI. Aer Lingus Corporate Affairs Director, Enda Corneille, said the figures are excellent and it is well on schedule to achieving 700,000 bookings before its first anniversary on the route.

Mayobridge Gets Boost

A new environmental improvement initiative was officially opened today. The Mayobridge Environmental Scheme includes improvements to the pedestrian footbridge, footpaths, lighting, bus shelter and the removal of tree stumps in the central village area at a cost of over £140,000. The Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said: "These improvements will benefit those living and working in Mayobridge. It will make the village more appealing to residents and visitors alike. I would like to congratulate all those involved in the development and delivery of this excellent scheme, in particular the Mayobridge Development Group. Without the voluntary efforts of the Development Group, projects like this could never be delivered. This scheme sees much needed improvements to the appearance of Mayobridge."

Lagan Lock Keepers Kept

A little piece of the River Lagan's history has been restored to its former glory after lying derelict for 15 years. After months of restoration the Lock Keeper's cottage at Shaw's Bridge was one of over 200 Ulster buildings which opened their doors at the weekend as part of the European Heritage Open Days scheme. It was built between 1827 and 1934 and played a pivotal role in a water transport system which served Northern Ireland. The original 'last' Lock Keeper bought the cottage and stayed there until his death, and then left it to one of his daughters who in turn sold it to Castlereagh Council so that it would stay in public hands.

(BMcC)