A DUP MLA has compared the paint attack on the Queen Victoria statue in the grounds of the Royal Victoria Hospital to the actions of the Islamic State. North Belfast MLA Brian Kingston was speaking in the Assembly on Monday. On Friday members of left-wing republican group Lasair Dhearg poured red paint over the statue. Referring to the monarch as the Famine Queen, posting on X the group said: "In a Socialist Republic all the symbols of Empire will be stripped from the land: street names, statues, institutions, and those that will stand against the people organising for a better future. Only the fight for a Socialist Republic can bring about the end of occupation and Imperialism in Ireland."

AN anti-war protest is due to be held at Belfast’s City Hall on Monday evening in response to the US-led bombing of Iran.

SIX people have been arrested in relation to drink or drug driving offences in Belfast over the weekend.

THE Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) has published the first all-island report highlighting the community impact of credit unions, showing €8 million worth of contributions in support of communities across the island of Ireland in 2024.

WEST Belfast MLA Aisling Reilly has praised the work of St Agnes' Boxing Club following a recent visit, where she met with coaches and volunteers to discuss its progress and future ambitions.