A South Belfast man who has been present at many key events in recent Irish political history recently added another feather to his cap when he was awarded an MBE for services to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
A Bolt out of the blue

As three friends and I stumbled out of an up-market Brussels hostelry, in the early hours of a Saturday morning back in September, a certain Danish brewery’s well-known advertising campaign sprang to mind.
Strength in depth the key

Linfield spoiled Glenn Ferguson’s first match in charge of Ballymena United by beating the Sky Blues 2-1 at the Showgrounds on Saturday afternoon.
A fair crack of the whip is all that we’re asking
It’s not clear whether the old Chinese adage, ‘May you live in interesting times’, is a curse or a benediction but, either way, an interesting year lies ahead for West Belfast.
Action needed now
As jobless figures spiral to record levels, it’s crucial that every penny of government spending adds value to the economy.
Making real progress for voters at City Hall
Following the last local elections, Sinn Féin increased its vote across the city and increased its representation by electing two additional councillors. This brought our representation to 16, making Sinn Féin the biggest single party in Belfast City Hall.