Sectarian use of CS gasby PSNI

Instances of the PSNI using CS gas disproportionately on nationalists in Strabane, Castlederg, Omagh and other parts of west Tyrone have been increasing, according to Sinn Féin's Barry McElduff.

The Tyrone MLA said the notorious gas is being used as an instrument of political policing and is being used all too often. He is writing to the Taoiseach and British Direct-Ruler, Peter Hain, about one recent incident.

Council faces investigation

The North's Equality Commission is investigating Lisburn City Council over it's policy of flying the union jack at council locations.

The DUP majority council introduced a policy of flying the flag on a permanent basis at council locations throughout the council area, contradicting an Equality Impact Assessment which rules that the flag can only be flown at civic headquarters only on 17 designated days.

While welcoming the latest decision Sinn Féin Councillor Paul Butler criticised the Equality Commission's failure to investigate any complaints against district councils since it was set up under the Good Friday Agreement.