Other News In Brief

New Cycle Path For Magherafelt

Work has commenced on a new cycle path scheme at Castledawson Road, Magherafelt.

The £75,000 scheme is expected to last for four weeks and will see up to 480 metres of combined footway/cycleway constructed.

Commenting on the scheme, Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy, said: "This is a very welcome scheme particularly as it addresses the missing link between Pound Road at Magherafelt town boundary and the excellent facility provided at Aghagaskin Road last year.

"Cycling continues to grow in popularity across Northern Ireland, both as a means of commuting to work and for leisure.

"I am committed to delivering more schemes such as this one in Magherafelt, which are designed to encourage more people to try cycling in a safe and enjoyable environment."

Five Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

Five people have been convicted at Belfast Magistrate's Court for claiming benefits they were not entitled to.

Nikita Neill, 25, of Torrens Road, Belfast, claimed Income Support and Rates totalling £5,529 while failing to declare a student loan. She was given 80 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £46.

Sylvia Moffett, 58, of Avoniel Drive, Belfast, claimed Jobseekers Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £4,974 while failing to declare employment. She was fined £275 and ordered to pay court costs of £80.

Linda Adams, also 58, of Blackthorn Park, Carrickfergus, claimed Income Support totalling £3,109 while failing to declare employment. She was given a conditional discharge for 12 months.

Michael Colville, 59, of Shore Road, Belfast, was found to have claimed Housing Benefit totalling £4,756 while failing to declare employment. He was given 80 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £37.

Lastly, 30-year-old Diane Rea of Martinez Avenue, Belfast, claimed Housing Benefit and Income Support totalling £3,121 while failing to declare employment. She was given 120 hours community service and ordered to pay court costs of £43.

All are also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

Antrim Primary Schools To Amalgamate

Education Minister John O'Dowd has approved plans to amalgamate three schools in Co Antrim.

The schools in question are Glenravel Primary School, Martinstown and St Mary's Primary School, Cargan.

Explaining the decision, Mr O'Dowd said: "This proposal aims to consolidate and deliver more sustainable Catholic-maintained primary provision for children in this area of County Antrim in the long term. Having considered all of the available evidence, I am satisfied that approval of the amalgamation is the best way forward.

"In January 2013, I announced that a new build scheme encompassing the schools could proceed in planning. The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) as the managing authority will implement the amalgamation upon completion of the new school building.

"The build project is, however, dependent upon completion of an approved economic appraisal and subject to the availability of sufficient funding."

(JP/CD)