Though Na Na Ni does have a few relatively conventional pop tunes, like the lovely sing-along lullaby of the opener "Black Fur" and its successor "Alina's Place, " some of its most fascinating pieces are those that abandon traditional structures and vocals.

NPR: Fredrik: 'Black Fur'

McIlroy started with three debutants in Tommy Doherty, Chris Baird and Andy Smith and he will not have been too disheartened following a spirited NI display.

BBC: NI beaten by Italy

"When you realise that half the budget is already committed to contracts, that means effectively wiping out almost the entire new build programme for the next four years and that will have a tremendous impact on the construction trade in NI, " he warned.

BBC: Health capital budget could be cut by 37 per cent

There have been angry exchanges in the NI assembly during a debate on plans for the site of the former Maze prison.

BBC: Angry exchanges in assembly during Maze debate

At the time, "Wanxiang didn't have a work force to do international business, " says Ni, now 38 and the president of Wanxiang America.

FORBES: The Challenge From China

The Irish League of Credit Unions have said that 2012 will see a drop in disposable income for NI households.

BBC: Credit unions warn of increasing payday loan dependence

Advice NI, a local independent advice network, is among those who have claimed the process is flawed.

BBC: Northern Ireland

He welcomed the decision to exempt NI from the carbon price floor - a tax measure that would have undermined the competitiveness of energy generators within the all-island market, he said.

BBC: Minister Sammy Wilson gives Budget 'cautious welcome'

The two governments have agreed to work together in a variety of areas - including Europe, the economy and NI.

BBC: PM and Taoiseach meet in London

Mr McGuinness also also said that a statement issued by the office of Northern Ireland first minister and deputy first minister after a meeting of NI political leaders at Stormont Castle last month was not as strong as he would have liked.

BBC: Northern Ireland