Other News In Brief

Woman Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A woman has been convicted for claiming £9,100 benefits she was not entitled to at Strabane Magistrates' Court.

Noleen Logue claimed Jobseeker's Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £9,118 while failing to declare employment. She was given 100 hours community service.

She is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department.

Refurb Work On Co Down Play Park Complete

Refurbishment work on a play park in Ballybeen, Co Down, has officially been completed.

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council invested approximately £95,000 in upgrading and reinstating the Ballyoran Play Park.

The renovation project involved public consultation as well as close working with local schools and community groups. As part of the process, Brooklands Primary School created artwork which will be permanently displayed at the play area as a reminder of their involvement in the project.

With the help of the artist and the teachers of Brookland Primary School, the young people were able to illustrate a montage that captured the spirit of the play area. Every child in the school, including the nursery unit, had a hand in the making of the original art work.

Councillor Brian Bloomfield MBE, former Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council said: "Children's play facilities are so important within local communities. We are really pleased to see this play area re-opened after a major refurbishment, part of an ongoing programme of works across the Council area and we would like to thank everyone for their patience while the work was ongoing.

"With so many indoor activities nowadays and stories of parents prising technology out of children’s hands, to be able to go outside and get the proverbial fresh air is very satisfying.

"It is important for communities to have a go-to place like Ballyoran Park where children can socialise and exercise safely at the same time."

Man Sentenced For Claiming Benefits He Was Not Entitled To

A man has been convicted for claiming £18,300 benefits he was not entitled to at Belfast Magistrates' Court.

Jamie Kerr claimed Income Support, Carer's Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £18,305 while failing to declare employment. He was given a five month prison sentence suspended for two years.

He is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department.

(CD/MH)