DETI Accepts Disqualifications Against Co Down Directors

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment has accepted disqualification undertakings from two county Down directors.

The undertakings were accepted for seven years from 51-year-old Kieran Paul Burns and two years from 49-year-old Jacqueline Burns, both of Crieve Court, Newry respect of their conduct as directors of K.B. Developments Ltd.

The company carried out business of general construction and civil engineering from Crieve Court, Newry and entered administration on 5 August 2011 with estimated total assets of £808,584, liabilities to charge holders of £3,443,759, liabilities to unsecured creditors of £148,907, and an estimated deficiency to creditors of £2,784,082.

It was estimated the total losses incurred by members of the company the total estimated deficiency was £2,803,650.

Pair Face Confiscation Orders

The Social Security Agency Financial Investigation Unit has obtained a confiscation order to the value of £38,814 against 51-year-old Michael Harkin of Glenabbey Street, L'Derry at Londonderry Crown Court yesterday.

Mr Harkin claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit based on the claim he was a lone parent and had no savings or other source of income.

The defendant failed to declare was living with his estranged wife, Donna McCool. She received £67,292 in benefits he was not entitled to over an eight year period.

At the confiscation hearing the Court granted a Confiscation Order in the amount of £38,814 with an 18 month prison sentence in default of non-payment. He has until 2 January 2015 to satisfy the order.

Ms McCool received £78,612 in benefits she was not entitled to over a ten year period.

On 18 April 2013 the defendant pleaded guilty to four charges of failing to declare her true circumstances.

At the confiscation hearing the Court granted a Confiscation Order in the amount of £38,814 with an 18 month prison sentence in default of non-payment. She has until 2 January 2015 to satisfy the order.

Road Improvement Schemes Start In Omagh

£280,000 of road improvement schemes have begun in Omagh, County Tyrone, this week.

Preparation work for asphalt resurfacing commenced on a 1.2km stretch of the A5 Curr Road, Omagh, northwest of the Newtownsaville junction. The scheme is due to be completed by mid August.

Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy said: "This scheme will greatly improve the strength and surface quality of the carriageway on this main route between Omagh and Belfast."

Pair Charged Over £350k Cannabis Seizure

Two women have been charged following a £350,000 cannabis seizure.

Police conducted searches at properties in Belfast, Larne and Co Down this week.

The pair, aged 24 and 45, are expected to face drugs, money laundering and other charges when they appear before Belfast Magistrates Court on Friday.

(IT/CD)