Other News In Brief

Sinn Féin Condemn Attempted Arson Attack At Craigavon Area Hospital

Sinn Féin have condemned an attempted arson attack at the pharmacy wing of Craigavon Area Hospital.

MLA for the area, John O'Dowd said: "I want to condemn this attack outright. Our health services are under severe pressure. Any lasting damage caused to the pharmacy wing of the hospital could have resulted in multiple deaths.

"Fortunately, on this occasion, there were no fatalities and no lasting damage was caused. But it could have been so very different.

"I want to praise emergency services and staff at Craigavon Area Hospital for their quick response which helped bring the fire under control – ensuring no loss of life. The suspect is now in police custody."

Antrim Man Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A 41-year-old Antrim man has been convicted of benefit fraud for failing to declare that he was working while in receipt of benefits he was not entitled to.

At Antrim Magistrates Court, the man was sentenced to four months imprisonment suspended for two years. This followed a conviction for failing to declare that he was working while in receipt of benefits he was not entitled to. The overpayment in this case totalled £3,918.18 which must be repaid to the Department.

This brings the total number of convictions since 01 April 2017 to 251.

Resurfacing Works To Begin In Gortin

A £200,000 major resurfacing scheme on the U1226 Meenadoo Road in Gortin will commence on 15 January.

Bitmac resurfacing work on several stretches of the Meenadoo Road, totalling 3.5 kilometres, will improve the structural condition of this stretch of carriageway, enhance the running surface and reduce maintenance costs. The scheme is expected to be completed by the 26 January 2018.

To facilitate the work, a closure of the Meenadoo Road will operate daily between 8.00am and 5.00pm. Diversions will be signposted as work progresses and local access will be maintained.

Motorists using Meenadoo Road should be aware that diversions are in place and additional time should be allowed when planning any journeys.

As with all improvement works the planned dates are subject to favourable weather conditions and the Department will keep the public informed of any changes.

(MH/LM)