Other News In Brief

Three People Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

Three people have convicted for claiming benefits they were not entitled to at Craigavon Magistrates' Court.

Cosmin Covaciu claimed Jobseeker's Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £2,986 while failing to declare employment. He was fined £200 and ordered to pay an offenders levy of £15.

Tirnagh Doherty claimed Jobseeker's Allowance and Housing benefit totalling £3,377 while failing to declare employment. She was given a two year conditional discharge.

Mandy Morrow claimed Income Support totalling £2,318 while failing to declare employment. She was given a two year conditional discharge.

They are also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department for Communities.

Warning Issued To Keep Bonfires A Safe Distance From Overhead Lines

NIE Networks has issued a warning to communities to keep bonfires a safe distance from overhead lines and substations.

A NIE Networks spokesperson said: "Unfortunately, in previous years, bonfires have been sited close to or even under our high voltage overhead lines. This is dangerous for everyone because smoke and heat from bonfires can cause an overhead line to break and fall. This poses a very real risk to everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

"Remember - electricity can jump gaps so you don't need to come into direct contact with our equipment to risk electrocution. Our electricity network is safe when left alone but is potentially lethal if you get too close.

"We are working with the local communities and elected representatives to highlight the dangers, and, as part of this would urge everyone involved to put safety first this summer."

UUP Supports IFA Bid To Host UEFA Super Cup

Ulster Unionist Party Leader Robin Swann MLA has given his full backing to the Irish Football Association (IFA) as it bids to host the UEFA Super Cup in Belfast, by signing a letter of support.

He said: "Northern Ireland football is still on a high after qualification for last year’s Euro 2016 tournament in France, and the National side currently sits second in its World Cup qualifying group. The redevelopment of Windsor Park has delivered a stadium which all of Northern Ireland can be proud of and the new National Stadium at Windsor Park is more than capable of hosting a high profile club match like the UEFA Super Cup.

"This year's match will be played in Skopje in Macedonia on August 8th and will feature Real Madrid and Manchester United, who were winners of the Champions League and Europa League respectively, and undoubtedly two of the giants of the European and World game."

(CD)