Alliance Appalled Over Parliamentary Flags Across Bangor

An Alliance councillor has condemned the recent appearance of Paramilitary Flags across Bangor.

North Down Cllr Andrew Muir is urging statutory bodies to step forward and agree a unified plan to ensure their removal.

Mr Muir has been contacted numerous times since the flags started appearing, adding many were 'appalled' to see flags erected for illegal proscribed terrorist organisations.

Councillor Muir said: "I, along with many other people across North Down, am appalled to see flags erected for illegal proscribed terrorist organisations. The vast overwhelming majority of people across North Down are law abiding tolerant citizens who respect the Police Service of NI, abhor intimidation and criminality and want us to move forward away from the shadow of all paramilitary organisations, whether Loyalist or Republican. Support for terrorist organisations was never acceptable in the past and must never be tolerated today or in the future.

"Rather than standing back whilst increased proliferation of such flags occurs, it's vital that statutory bodies step forward and work together to agree a combined plan in order to ensure their removal. The current situation cannot continue with local people made to feel intimidated by the appearance of such flags and potential investors and visitors deterred from coming to the area."

Newtownabbey Man Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A Newtownabbey man has been convicted for claiming benefits he was not entitled to at Belfast Magistrates' Court.

James Crangle of Glenville Park claimed housing benefit totalling £7,080 while failing to declare he was living with his partner. He was given 12 month conditional discharge.

He is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

Bridge Strengthening Scheme In Enniskillen To Begin

A £500,000 bridge strengthening project at Johnston Bridges, A32 Cornagrade Road, Enniskillen, is to begin on Monday 22 June.

Following an assessment of the Johnston Bridges structures Transport NI has determined that they are in need of structural repairs. The extensive improvements will involve the removal of the bridge surfacing on both bridges, application of a new waterproofing layer and relaying of kerbs and new surfacing. The footway on the eastern side of the bridges will be widened to facilitate a cycle path.

Diversions will be put in place during the works.

(CD)