Belfast and Northern Ireland News

Keep up to date with the latest news and sports articles for Belfast and Northern Ireland. You will also find links on the left that will direct you to local and national newspaper websites and publications.

Latest News... (Source: BBC News)

'Life threatening' storm leaves 240,000 properties without power
Ahead of Storm Éowyn, both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have issued red weather warnings.
Storm leaves 715k properties without power in republic
ESB Networks says it has never experienced so many power cuts in the country at once during a storm.
Five taken to hospital after multi-vehicle M1 crash
The M1 was closed in both directions between Saintfield Road and Stockmans Lane due to the crash.
Police investigate hoax pipe bomb in Londonderry
The incident in the Winchester Park area of the city was reported to police late on Thursday.
Was Belfast 2024 a 'game-changer' for the arts?
Belfast 2024 was meant to be a year-long "creative celebration" for the city, linking a number of shows and events.
Pensioner 'screamed out the window' when home set on fire
Wilma Farara who is deaf, is in a coma in intensive care after the incident in Antrim.
Micheál Martin elected taoiseach after chaos subsides
The Dáil had been suspended on Wednesday following chaotic scenes in the chamber.
Councillor 'regrets' reference for soldier later jailed for rape
A Londonderry councillor has apologised for giving a court reference for an Irish soldier who was jailed for rape.
Tributes after poet Michael Longley dies aged 85
Belfast-born poet Michael Longley dies aged 85, his family says.
Irish soldier jailed after suspended sentence appealed
Cathal Crotty attacked Natasha O'Brien in Limerick in 2022 after she asked him to stop shouting homophobic abuse.
Lifeguard thought pool death swimmer was training, trial told
Christopher Rogers, 20, died at the Orchard Leisure Centre in Armagh in 2017.
Women affected by cervical cancer screening issues 'need voices heard'
The DUP's Diane Dodds says it's vital that the 17,500 women affected by a screening review know their experiences count.
Lady Donaldson's bid to have two charges dropped is adjourned
Lady Donaldson has previously pleaded not guilty to three other charges connected to aiding and abetting.
Versatile poet's work ranged from nature to civil strife
One of Northern Ireland?s best known poets, Michael Longley has died at the age of 85.
Hughes targets MMA 'superstardom' for 2025
Irishman Paul Hughes says he is ready to take Usman Nurmagomedov "to the depths of hell" in their Bellator Lightweight Championship title fight on 25 January.
Fishing festivals 'under threat' after funding cut
The Classic Fishing Festival and the Pike Classic take place in County Fermanagh every year.
Actor with terminal illness wins prestigious award
Michael Campbell, also known as Michael Patrick, won the Judges? Award at the Stage Awards in London.
Mum says school bus disruption 'intolerable' for autistic teen
The mother of a boy with special educational needs says the bus disruption started in September 2023.
Dáil disruption 'was stunt politics on speed', says Irish PM
The election of the taoiseach (Irish prime minister) has been delayed after parliament was suspended amid chaotic scenes in the chamber.
'Resume your seats... I'm going to be left with no option'
Verona Murphy called for a 15 minute suspension after Teachtaí Dála (TDs) refused to "stop shouting" at her and take their seats.
Speaking rights row sees Irish parliament suspended
The Irish parliament sitting to elect a new taoiseach has been suspended after a row erupts over speaking rights.
Speaker's warning over 'loose interpretation of smart' clothing
NI Assembly Speaker Edwin Poots warned members that some were not dressing appropriately for the chamber.
BBC Newsline signed summary
A signed summary of BBC Newsline.
Engagement with Trump is 'not about his personal views'
Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly say they will talk to Trump about NI's economic interests.
Two men released on bail over Lifford attack
A man in his 20s was airlifted to hospital after he and his father were attacked at a house in Lifford.
Police investigate hoax pipe bomb in Londonderry
The incident in the Winchester Park area of the city was reported to police late on Thursday.
Creator of deepfake images of MLA yet to be found
East Londonderry MLA Cara Hunter was targeted in a fake pornographic video three years ago.
Two men arrested in Londonderry after Lifford attack
Two men have been arrested in Londonderry after the serious assault of a man in County Donegal.
'Zero-tolerance zone' for violence against women
On Monday night, an event took place at the Guildhall in Londonderry to discuss violence against women and girls.
Man sentenced for attack at Apprentice Boys parade
Ian Knipe, Ian Knipe, 48, of Wentworth Green in Portadown, was given 200 hours' community service.
Irish soldier from Derry jailed for raping woman
Kielan Mooney was jailed for eight-and-a-half years after being found guilty of rape in July 2021.
Who are the kingmakers in the new Irish government?
The two big parties have brought in the Regional Independent Group and the Healy-Rae brothers. Who are they?
Woman told friends she murdered somebody, court told
The body of Robert Wilkin was discovered in July 2023 in the sea at the foot of Slieve League.
Two men arrested in organised crime investigation
Nine properties in Drogheda were searched by Irish police on Tuesday morning.
Father and son injured in 'serious attack' at house
The son, who is in his 20s, was airlifted to hospital in Belfast following the attack in Lifford.
Fine Gael agrees programme for government
Fine Gael members vote by 93.9% to ratify the proposed plan ahead of the coalition forming on Wednesday.
Irish president rejects call not to attend Holocaust event
The out-going Israeli ambassador has called on Michael D Higgin to reconsider his attendance of the event in Dublin.
Fianna Fáil ratifies programme for government
Party leader Micheál Martin says the next ruling coalition can fulfil its "ambitious" programme for government.

Latest Sports News... (Source: BBC News)

Ulster hand McLoughlin first start for Zebre game
Ulster hand a first start to forward Lorcan McLoughlin for Sunday's United Rugby Championship game against Zebre at Kingspan Stadium.
Gaelic football enters new era - and I have reservations
Two-time Ulster Championship winner Chrissy McKaigue explains why he is sceptical about the new playing rules which will be introduced this weekend.
'There's been no magic wand' - Glenavon boss McLaughlin
Glenavon manager Paddy McLaughlin says the dedication and hard work of his players and staff have been instrumental in his side's recent upturn in results.
Armagh name 10 of All-Ireland side for Galway rematch
Kieran McGeeney names 10 of his All-Ireland-winning starting team for Armagh's Allianz Football League opener against Galway on Saturday.
Connacht GAA's Air Dome blown down in Storm Éowyn
Connacht GAA's £2.6m Air Dome indoor playing facility in county Mayo is destroyed during Storm Éowyn.
Antrim must 'stay in the game early' - Fitzgerald
New Antrim hurling boss Davy Fitzgerald says a good start will be key in their Division 1B opener against Dublin at Croke Park on Saturday.
Muff aim for Croke glory in All-Ireland Junior Club final
As Naomh Padraig Muff of Donegal prepare for their All-Ireland Junior Club Football final at Croke Park, BBC Sport NI's John Haughey takes a look at the club's history
Sheehan captains Leinster on return from ACL injury
Dan Sheehan will captain Leinster in Saturday's United Rugby Championship game against the Stormers on his return from an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Playing for Ulster 'a childhood dream' for Barrett
Ulster prop Corrie Barrett says it is "a childhood dream" to be part of the Irish province's squad after a somewhat nomadic rugby career so far.
Hughes targets MMA 'superstardom' for 2025
Irishman Paul Hughes says he is ready to take Usman Nurmagomedov "to the depths of hell" in their Bellator Lightweight Championship title fight on 25 January.
Conlan signs with Sauerland's Wasserman Boxing
Michael Conlan links up with the Wasserman Boxing agency headed by promoter Kalle Sauerland as he attempts to maintain his world title hopes.
Watch: 'Best in world' Hughes predicts Nurmagomedov KO
After his "breakout" victories last year, Paul Hughes wants to reach even greater heights in 2025, starting with his Bellator lightweight title fight against Usman Nurmagomedov on 25 January
The GAA Social with Jim Gavin
Former Dublin manager Jim Gavin discusses the rules enhancements for 2025
Highlights: Glens beat Larne in penalty shootout to lift Shield
Watch highlights as Glentoran see off Larne 5-4 in a penalty shootout to win the County Antrim Shield final after the game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes.
Easterby in 'really good space' as Irish coach - Humphreys
Irish Rugby Football Union performance director David Humphreys says Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby knows the "key ingredients of delivering success" ahead of the Six Nations.
Highlights: Cuala hold off Errigal Ciaran to win All-Ireland title
Watch highlights as Cuala stave off an Errigal Ciaran fightback to win 3-14 to 1-16 at Croke Park to claim their first All-Ireland Club Football title.
Watch: McGinley 'proud' despite final defeat for Errigal Ciaran
An emotional Errigal Ciaran manager Enda McGinley says his players should be "proud of their efforts" as he reflects on his side's 3-14 to 1-16 All-Ireland Club final defeat against Cuala.
Highlights: Giants go top after 3-2 win over Storm
Belfast Giants move to the top of the Elite League after holding on to beat Manchester Storm 3-2 at the SSE Arena.
Glentoran add to squad by signing Larne's Thomson
The January arrivals continue at Glentoran as Larne midfielder Joe Thomson agrees a two-and-a-half-year deal with the Oval club.
'Big signing' - Larne defender Ives joins Coleraine
Larne defender Levi Ives signs for Coleraine, becoming the club's third January signing.
McGuinness optimistic new rules will bed in well
Donegal boss Jim McGuinness is not predicting chaos when the new football rules come into effect this weekend as the Allianz League starts.
Informing squad of Newberry's death 'will live with me'
Cliftonville manager Jim Magilton recalls the harrowing moment when he informed his players of the death of their team-mate Michael Newberry.
'Brilliant' Easterby will get Ireland firing - Stewart
Ulster hooker Tom Stewart backs the "brilliant" Simon Easterby to "get Ireland firing" in the Six Nations.
New year, new rules - how Ulster counties are shaping up for league
BBC Sport NI assesses the Ulster counties ahead of the start of the Allianz League and the introduction of Gaelic football's new rules.
GAA league fixtures 2025
Fixture list for the 2025 Allianz Football and Hurling Leagues.
How McErlean is preparing for 'the Formula 1 of rallying'
Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy driver Josh McErlean tells BBC Sport NI about his journey to the top tier of the World Rally Championship.
NW200 unveils five-year commercial sustainability plan
North West 200 organisers unveil a five-year commercial sustainability plan to grow the international road race event.
Gavin planning 'the most exciting amateur game in the world'
Chairman Jim Gavin says that the remit for the Football Review Committee was to make Gaelic football the most exiting amateur sport in the world.
Ireland can 'thrive' under pressure - Easterby
Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby believes his side will embrace expectation as they seek an unprecedented third consecutive Six Nations title.
'Absolutely no doubt' - Humphreys backs Easterby
IRFU performance director David Humphreys has "absolutely no doubt" about Simon Easterby as he prepares to lead Ireland in this year's Six Nations in Andy Farrell's absence.
Tyrone v Derry first of five league streams on BBC
BBC Sport NI will show five Allianz League games in 2025, starting with Saturday's big Division One football clash as Derry face Ulster rivals Tyrone.
McGinley's pride after Errigal's second-half response
Enda McGinley will feel "eternal pride" for his Errigal Ciaran players' response to a nightmare first half in their All-Ireland Club Football Final defeat.
Winning important after 'emotional week' - Magilton
Cliftonville boss Jim Magilton says that his side "struggled" in their 2-0 win against Loughgall at Solitude.
New rules will help 'refreshed' Murphy - McGuinness
Jim McGuinness says Michael Murphy will return to Donegal duty an energised player and will also benefit from the new football rules.
'Norman exit a good move but LIV isn't going away'
Rory McIlroy says Greg Norman's exit is "probably a good move" for a LIV circuit which he believes is here to stay for the foreseeable future.
Nucifora set for British and Irish Lions role
Scottish Rugby's performance director David Nucifora is set for a shock role on the British and Irish Lions staff for the upcoming tour of his native Australia.
West Brom sign Northern Ireland midfielder Price
West Brom sign Northern Ireland midfielder Isaac Price from Belgian club Standard Liege for an undisclosed fee.
Six Nations to use 20-minute red cards for first time
This year's Six Nations will use 20-minute red cards for the first time.
Lions selection 'brings that extra factor' - Doris
Ireland captain Caelan Doris says the chance to earn selection for the summer's British and Irish Lions tour to Australia will be a factor in this year's Six Nations.
McClean in road accident on way to Wrexham training
Wrexham captain James McClean will be assessed by the club's medical team after he was involved in a car accident on his way to training.
Listen: Sports Review of the Year
BBC Sport's Michael McNamee reviews the Northern Ireland sporting year which included Olympic success in Paris.
Watch: Rachel Reid named BBC Sport NI's Unsung Hero 2024
Rachel Reid of Lagan Dragons has been named BBC Sport NI's Unsung Hero 2024.
'Jody would have gone on to manage Tyrone' - Canavan
Peter Canavan and Feargal Logan pay tribute to their late Tyrone team-mate Jody Gormley who died on Monday evening at the age of 53 after a battle with cancer.

National News Headlines

Red warnings for millions as Storm Éowyn batters UK
Red is the most serious warning the Met Office can issue as the storm brings gusts of more than 90mph.
MP calls for harsher sentence for Southport killer
Axel Rudakubana, 18, was jailed for a minimum of 52 years for the murders of three girls.
Three investigates 999 calls not getting through during outage
The company said the problems with its services on Thursday are now fixed.
Rolls-Royce strikes £9bn nuclear submarine deal
A deal for nuclear submarine reactors is agreed between the Ministry of Defence and Rolls-Royce.
'Costs just keep rising' - jump in firms in trouble
Businesses in the most distress include those in hospitality, leisure and retail, say insolvency specialists.
Appeal won to name Sara Sharif's family court judges
A decision not to name judges in historical family court cases about Sara's care has been appealed.
Hugh Grant urges police to investigate Sun owners
He also wants to see the government launch part two of the Leveson Inquiry into press standards.
Trump told not to put massive tariffs on UK
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds says there is no need for tariffs because the US has no goods trade deficit with the UK.
Campaigners dismiss loan charge review as 'sham'
The charge aimed to close a tax loophole and recover backdated taxes, but has left many facing big bills.
Arrests amid trouble before Man Utd Rangers match
Officers were called to reports of disorder before the Europa League clash at Old Trafford.
MP abuse worse than Jo Cox era, says sister Leadbeater
Leadbeater says her bill to legalise assisted dying has exposed her to unprecedented levels of "nastiness".
Hair loss drug finasteride 'biggest mistake of my life'
Some online sites prescribe a potentially risky hair loss drug without consistent safety checks, BBC finds.

Source: BBC News

Belfast and Northern Ireland News

Business & Community

Local Offers & Promotions

Food, Drink & Entertainment

Travel & Accommodation

Property & Property Services

Jobs & Employment Services

Classifieds (Buy & Sell)

Chat, News & Links

Free Local Listings