Other News In Brief

Man Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A man has been convicted for claiming benefits he was not entitled to at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court.

Michael McCreanor claimed Employment Support Allowance totalling £4,805 while failing to declare employment. He was given a four month prison sentence suspended for two years.

He is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department for Communities.

Over 100 New Park And Share Spaces To Be Developed In Newry

Construction work has started to develop over 100 new park and share spaces in Newry.

A total of £220,000 is being invested in the project at Sheepbridge and the work is expected to be completed in approximately eight weeks.

There are currently 63 spaces at Sheepbridge, however the additional spaces will cater for road users who are unable to utilise the existing oversubscribed facilities and also allow for bus pick up and drop off.

The Department for Infrastructure (DfI) confirmed it will continue to identify further sites for park and ride and park and share on key commuting corridors.

Call For Michel Barnier To Listen To All NI Voices On Brexit

Ulster Unionist Leader, Robin Swann MLA, has questioned EU negotiator, Michel Barnier's commitment to listening to all voices in Northern Ireland on Brexit.

"Following his meeting with Sinn Fein on Brexit, Michel Barnier tweeted saying that it was 'essential to listen to all voices in Northern Ireland'. I agree with him on that point, which is why it is baffling that he did not extend an invitation beyond the two parties who recently presided over a failed talks process. We wrote to Mr Barnier last week requesting a meeting with him regarding the negotiations.

"Sinn Fein and the DUP do not speak for all the people of Northern Ireland. There are other parties with mandates who represent the views of a significant portion of our society. It is vital that those involved in these negotiations receive a fully representative range of voices from Northern Ireland. If Mr Barnier is serious about listening to all voices, then we would welcome the opportunity to meet with him."

(CD)