Other News In Brief

£12,000 And Gambling Equipment Seized In South Belfast

Police have seized over £12,000 and various gambling equipment in south Belfast.

Detectives found unlawful gambling taking place at premises in the area in the early hours of this morning.

An investigation is ongoing.

Transport NI Accused Of Holding Ards Peninsula Hostage

Transport NI has been accused of holding the Ards Peninsula hostage after the area was effectively sealed off for a period over the holidays.

Alliance Councillor Kellie Armstrong said with a main road affected by subsidence and the ferry service cancelled due to mechanical failure, local people were left stranded for a number of days.

She said: "A sinkhole appeared on the Portaferry Road between Finlay's Road and Mountstewart Road, meaning the closure of the main route. This was compounded by the ferry being cancelled and the second boat already being away for repair.

"This caused massive inconvenience for people living in this area of Strangford, showing how important that connection is. I hope Transport NI considers the impact on an already isolated community their plans to reduce the ferry service will have."

Concerns Raised Over Electoral Office Cuts

Ulster Unionist Peer Lord Empey has voiced concerns that the Electoral Office in Northern Ireland is facing major cuts, which he believes could affect public confidence in the electoral system.

Lord Empey said: "The Parliamentary Answers I have recently received from the Government indicate to me that major cuts are on the way for the Electoral Office in Northern Ireland.

"Over the years, the Electoral Office has established a widespread reputation for professionalism and impartiality. Anything that would put this at risk is to be avoided at all costs.

"The Ulster Unionist Party is concerned that Local Councils will be asked to conduct the counts of key elections. Given that the law governing Westminster, Assembly and local elections is different, and that different forms of voting are involved, a huge burden would be placed on local government officials. This is taking a great risk with public confidence in our electoral system."