Other News In Brief

Victims And Survivors Of Institutional Abuse Have Been Let Down Again - Alliance

Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw has said she believes the victims and survivors of institutional abuse have been let down again after she discovered the compensation scheme was unlikely to start before next year.

She was speaking after a meeting with the Civil Service in which it was confirmed because the Hart Report into historical institutional abuse was published at the same time as the Executive collapsed, the Executive had not yet had a chance to consider its recommendations.

Ms Bradshaw said: "The victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse deserve justice now, they have waited long enough. It is incumbent their dignified and courageous campaign is recognised and they receive the redress they deserve.

"People should not have to face further injustice due to the political impasse. This is heart-breaking for those who believed they would be receiving compensation soon and my thoughts are with them."

Construction Work Starts On £290,000 Scheme In Belfast

Work to resurface a footway and carriageway in Belfast has begun.

The £290,000 project is taking place in the University Avenue area and will improve the surface quality of the footways and carriageway.

The work is expected to be completed by mid September 2017.

The road work will be carried out Monday to Friday each week, between the hours of 8am to 6pm. The first stage will be on site from 22 June until 10 July 2017, recommencing on Monday 24 July 2017.

University Avenue will be closed to through traffic for the duration of the works, however, local access for residents will be maintained at all times during the scheme.

The dates and duration of the road closures will be dependent on the progress of the scheme and on favourable weather conditions.

UUP Welcomes Launch Of Veterans' Gateway

East Belfast Ulster Unionist MLA Andy Allen has welcomed the launch of the Veterans' Gateway, which will be the first point of contact for veterans seeking support.

He said: "I am delighted to see the official launch of the Veterans' Gateway - a dedicated 24/7 first point of contact, which will put veterans and their families in touch with the organisations best placed to help with the information, advice and support they need – from healthcare and housing to employability, finances, personal relationships and more.

"Veterans' Gateway is made up of a consortium of organisations and Armed Forces charities, including The Royal British Legion, SSAFA – the Armed Forces charity, Poppy Scotland, Combat Stress and Connect Assist.

"Its connection with additional key referral organisations – both within and outside the Armed Forces sector – means they can get you to the right organisation who can help."

(CD/MH)