DUP Slammed Over Its Decision To Veto New Community Facility In Co Antrim

The DUP has been slammed over its decision to veto a new community facility in the Glens, Co Antrim.

SDLP Glens Councillor Margaret Anne McKillop is Chair of the Council Leisure Committee which approved the application.

Cllr McKillop said she is "absolutely devastated" by the decision.

She said: "It is incredibly distressing for those of us who have pressed for this new development which would really lift the whole area.

"As chair of the council leisure committee, I've been working closely with Friends of Glenariff who have given their all to get this project across the line. I cannot praise their efforts enough.

"Now to be told at the very last minute that the DUP has exercised the call-in mechanism which, given the timelines involved, will essentially veto the project is deeply upsetting.

"A community facility like this should be beyond grandstanding. We are elected to deliver positive initiatives like this and to work together to ensure they are welcoming for everyone. Pressing the nuclear button at the last minute is a disgrace."

SF MLA Pays Tribute To Mohammed Ali

Sinn Fein MLA Alex Maskey has paid tribute to boxing legend Muhammad Ali who died aged 74.

Mr Maskey said: "He was a true boxing great but, more than that he was a sporting great.

"Everyone knows the name of Muhammad Ali and he was an inspiration to so many, far beyond the boxing world.

"His likes will never be seen again and is it is clear his memory will continue to live on."

Concerns Raised Over Minister's Investment For The Health Service

Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw has said she is concerned to hear talk from the Health Minister of investment for the health service instead of substantial reform.

Ms Bradshaw was speaking after Health Minister Michelle O'Neill addressed the Assembly on waiting times, saying her Department will be bidding for additional resources in this month's monitoring round in order to tackle excessive waiting times.

She said: "It is concerning to hear more talk from Sinn Fein of the need for more funding and investment instead of anything substantial around reform of the health and care sector.

"The Health Minister prefaced today's commitment to dealing with waiting lists in the short-term 'if' she managed to secure additional resources in the forthcoming monitoring round. What will she do if this funding is not forthcoming?"

(CD)