Other News In Brief

SDLP MLA Meets With BoI Reps To Discuss Branch Closures

An SDLP MLA has met with representatives from the Bank of Ireland (BoI) to discuss their decision to close a number of branches in Northern Ireland.

BoI announced the closure of eight branches last week.

SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone said: "I had a very frank discussion with senior representatives from the Bank of Ireland on the extremely detrimental effects that the closure of these branches will have on rural communities. Many people are under the impression that banks are retreating from rural areas and these closures are fuelling speculation of further closures to come.

"Closing branches in rural areas poses significant difficulties for communities who are already made to feel increasingly isolated. This is particularly true for older people who are unable to use online banking and rely on face to face service for secure financial assistance.

"The news also came as a bitter blow for staff but I have been assured that no one will face forced redundancy and every member of staff will be protected by the protocols agreed between the Bank of Ireland and trade unions."

Significant Progress Made On Sewerage Infrastructure Project In Armagh

BSG Civil Engineering is making significant progress on a sewerage infrastructure project in Co Armagh.

Work is currently ongoing on the Newry Road and Folly Lane progressing towards the Cavancaw Road.

The work on the £3 million programme is expected to be completed in September this year.

The scheme has been prioritised to take place over the summer months to reduce disruption.

In a statement, NI Water said: "NI Water has investigated the possibility of night-time working on this scheme but this is not possible for the health and safety of both the public, particularly the residents of the Newry Road area and construction workers."

Antrim Forum To Open On Sunday Mornings

The Antrim Forum is to open from 9am on Sunday mornings.

Proposed by Alliance Councillor Neil Kelly, the change was approved at the latest Antrim and Newtownabbey Council meeting, bringing the centre in line with Sunday opening at the Valley Leisure Centre.

"After years of campaigning to provide more flexible opening hours at the Antrim Forum, I'm delighted to see the Council approve this move," said Councillor Kelly.

"For years those using the Antrim Forum have been penalised because of the outdated views of their elected representatives, while people living in the Newtownabbey area have had full use of their local centre.

"The new Antrim and Newtownabbey Council has succeeded where the old Antrim Council failed – showing its progressive nature and desire to do what's best for all ratepayers."

(CD/JP)