Other News In Brief

Woman Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A woman has been convicted for claiming £22,382 benefits she was not entitled to at Belfast Crown Court.

Jennifer McCandless claimed Housing Benefit totalling £22,382 while failing to declare capital. She was given a six month prison sentence suspended for two years.

She has repaid the money wrongfully obtained to the Department for Communities in full.

The fraud was uncovered following an investigation by the Department for Communities.

Major International Conference On BIM To Take Place In Belfast

A major international conference to raise awareness of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and new digital technologies in the architecture, engineering and construction is to take place in Belfast.

Jon Briggs, broadcast journalist and the original UK voice of Siri, is to host Digital Construction Live 2017 on Friday 17 November at the Europa Hotel.

The conference, which is organised by the NI BIM Regions Group will provide a collaborative platform for best practice to be shared.

The event is free to attend.

BIM and digital construction expert, Melanie Dawson, Head of BIM at GRAHAM Construction, and founder member and Chair of NI BIM Regions Group, said: "The demand for Building Information Modelling (BIM) continues to grow across construction projects in the UK. I think this is partly as a result of the government mandate for BIM Level 2 in 2016 but also because public and private sector clients are increasingly understanding the potential value BIM can bring.

"BIM, digital construction, and indeed the wider industry 4.0 digital revolution in construction presents a very exciting new era for our industry. Progressive businesses have recognised and embraced the importance and potential of BIM processes and technologies in helping drive real business benefits and value."

Digital Construction Live will feature a major exhibition showcasing many of the emerging technologies that are being discussed at the event - from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and 3D laser scanners to wearable technology in virtual reality and augmented reality.

There will also be a 12 metre long, cable-stayed bridge assembled at the event, where attendees can cross the bridge and get the sense of the water flowing beneath as the technology transports them to the virtual environment.

Alliance Has 'Extremely Serious Questions' About Priorities Of The DUP And Sinn Fein

The Alliance Party has "extremely serious questions" about the priorities of the DUP and Sinn Fein after it was revealed that terminally ill patients are being placed on hospice waiting lists as care packages are cut.

The party's health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw said it is a "ridiculous game of chicken has gone on far too long now".

She said: "There is a deal on language and culture in front of the parties, and a clear means of delivering independent reform of the Assembly so that it functions effectively and in the public interest. It is time each party leadership developed the courage to get on with it. Maintaining this gridlock for the purposes of petty party interests is unacceptable."

(CD/MH)