Other News In Brief

DUP MLA Slammed Over Remarks To Scrap BBC Radio Foyle

A suggestion by a DUP MLA to scrap BBC Radio Foyle has been slammed by the SDLP.

Mark H Durkan described Ian Paisley's comments as "outrageous".

He said: "These remarks from Ian Paisley are outrageous. That any elected representative would call for the withdrawal of a valuable and valued local resource, never mind the job losses this would entail in an area of high unemployment, is reckless and irresponsible.

"Mr Paisley appears to be in competition with some party colleagues when it comes to inflammatory remarks and BBC bashing. BBC Radio Foyle has previously had its resources and output reduced but the dedicated team there has never allowed its quality to be diluted."

Planning Approved To Build 1,500 Houses In Co L'Derry

Planning has been approved to develop 1,500 new homes in Co L'Derry.

Derry City and Strabane District Council gave the green light to the plans, zoned as H1B on lands at Galliagh in the Derry Area Plan 2011.

In addition to the 1,500 houses, there is also land for a school, neighbourhood facilities, including local shops and services, roads, a public transport route through the heart of the site, and private and public open space areas with fully equipped play areas.

Chief Executive of Derry City and Strabane District Council, John Kelpie, said: "This is a very welcome planning decision of our new Council which will bring a substantial boost to the local economy within the city.

"It will provide a well-planned neighbourhood, with a varied mix of housing units to cater for all the future residents and provide local shops and services, a school and a neighbourhood centre. These will all be choreographed with well-placed public open space and children's play areas to create an exciting living place for years to come."

Drug Which Can Prevent HIV Would Save Money – Bradshaw

Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw has said a drug which can prevent HIV would be a 'money-saver' in the long run.

The High Court has told the NHS in England it can fund provision of the pre-exposure prophylaxis (Prep) drug, with the daily pills estimated to cost taxpayers £20 million a year.

South Belfast MLA Ms Bradshaw said money could be saved with it after DUP Chair of the Assembly Health Committee Paula Bradley stated she "wouldn't be against the introduction" of the drug in NI, but that the price would have to be looked at.

She said: "From a humanitarian point of view, we must do everything we can to help people who need it. In Northern Ireland, there are over 800 people estimated to be living with HIV, with 94 cases diagnosed last year alone. If this drug can help prevent that, then it is our duty to make it as widely available as possible.

"While the drug could of course see an initial financial outlay, we would save money in the long run as the health service could cut down on preventative measures and other lifelong medication, as there would not be as much call to use them."

(CD/JP)