Belfast News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Landmark Discrimination Trial: Graham Linehan and 24 Campaigners Sue Belfast Pub Over Alleged Refusal of Service Based on Gender-Critical Views. Eight Lead Cases to be Heard in Belfast County Court, Potentially Setting Precedent in Northern Ireland.

Retail NI transforms into a supply chain powerhouse, focusing on local agri-food businesses. They promote local goods, provide support for small businesses, and host events like their fourth supplier showcase at Windsor Park. The upcoming Deposit Return Scheme seminar prepares retailers and manufacturers for the changes ahead.

Christmas trading brought a glimmer of hope for Northern Irelands hospitality sector, with nearly seven in ten businesses reporting higher customer spending. However, rising living costs and taxes still pose significant challenges. Hospitality Ulster is advocating for VAT cuts to match the Republic of Irelands rates, urging politicians to support the sector and help it thrive again.

Belfasts first Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, a massive traditional Irish music festival, is set to take place from August 2-9, 2026. The event will feature a diverse lineup of venues, with City Hall hosting the Gig Rig, the festivals main attraction. Organizers anticipate at least 800,000 visitors and have opened the main outdoor stage to local talent. Key spots include Ulster Hall, Waterfront Hall, and ICC Belfast. Lord Mayor Tracy Kelly and Chairperson Niall McClean are excited about the event, which will showcase the citys world-class spaces and cultural diversity.

Kenny Jacobs, CEO of daa, suspended from his role, takes legal action to halt disciplinary probe and resume work. High Court case adjourned until February twenty-third. Airports continue operations under acting leadership.

A flag controversy is brewing in Northern Irelands Commonwealth Games team, with debates over which flag to use in Glasgow 2026. First Minister Michelle ONeill regrets the focus on flags, while Commonwealth Games Northern Ireland awaits guidance on the Ulster Banner. DUP leader Gavin Robinson argues against change, but ONeill supports an inclusive approach, like using the teams logo. As talks continue, the focus remains on celebrating Northern Irelands athletes.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland introduces a new policy, releasing mugshots of convicted offenders, aiming to boost public trust and align with UK forces. The move, effective since early 2025, was driven by victims families concerns and aims to show justice being served.

Kenny Jacobs, suspended Dublin Airport Authority CEO, secures pause in disciplinary probe. Legal team led by Padraic Lyons fights to end suspension and dismiss allegations. Court hearing fast-tracked, with responses due by Friday and full hearing set for February.

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, held a private meeting with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, a Nobel Peace Prize winner. The meeting comes amid Venezuelas turmoil, following Maduros arrest and Rodriguezs takeover. Machado, dedicated her prize to Trump and the Venezuelan people, but the Nobel Institute clarified the prize is non-transferable. World leaders influence on Venezuelas future remains a focus.