Other News In Brief

Alliance Shows Support after Berlin Attack

Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA has said her thoughts and prayers are with the people of Berlin after a lorry attack in the German capital killed 12 people.

The vehicle ploughed into a Christmas market in the city, also injuring 48 people. German police are treating the incident as a probable terrorist attack.

Mrs Long said said: "My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, and their families and loved ones in the wake of these terrible tragedies. The world stands in solidarity with Berlin in particular after this horrific attack, which has seen the loss of life.

"Alongside our shock, sadness and sympathy, these attacks bring a determination to not allow terrorism to undermine democracy and its core principles. The message against those who would carry out such terror is we will not give in to them."

MP Colman To Start Work On New Play Park In L'Derry

MP Colman Ltd have been appointed to start work on a new play area in Co L'Derry.

The project is Strathfoyle is being funded by Derry City and Strabane District Council with support from the Department for Communities.

work is expected to begin over the next few weeks.

Minister for Communities Paul Givan said: "I am delighted that my Department's funding commitment of £50,000 helped to unlock the other funding necessary to commence the project. It is great to see these plans now coming to fruition and that there will be a new play area available to the local community."

Alex Duffy, Chairperson of Strathfoyle Community Association, said: "The people of Strathfoyle are very excited with this news. We would like to thank DCSDC for all their hard work and commitment to the people of Strathfoyle."

UUP Slams FIFA Decision

The Ulster Unionist Party’s Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP, Tom Elliott, has described FIFA’s decision to fine the four UK Football Associations for the display of Poppy Symbols during recent international matches on Armistice Day, as absolutely shameful.

Mr Elliott said: "Nothing can justify the decision by FIFA to fine all four UK Football Associations for the display of poppies at international matches last month.

"FIFA has decided to fine the Irish FA 15,000 Swiss Francs which amounts to around £11,760. The other fines were 45,000 Swiss Francs for the English FA, whilst the Scottish and Welsh FAs were fined 20,000 Swiss Francs each.

"I say again; the display of the Poppy is a non-political and non-religious symbol of remembrance. Remembrance in the United Kingdom commemorates the dead of two World Wars and subsequent conflicts. It is a truly National event and FIFA's actions are nothing less than shameful.

"The United Kingdom does not need - nor should it ever seek - permission or guidance from anyone as to how we should commemorate our War dead."

(CD)