Scale Of Health Cuts Will Put Lives At Risks - SDLP

SDLP Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan MLA has again warned that the scale of cuts facing Health Trusts across Northern Ireland will threaten patient safety and put lives at risk.

Speaking ahead of the end of a consultation period on £70m worth of cuts, he said: "Over the last number of weeks, the SDLP has facilitated meetings with health service professionals and health sector representatives. The clear message from all those involved is that cuts of this magnitude cannot be made without putting patient safety at risk.

"The public is rightly outraged that our health service teeters on the brink of a significant financial crisis while the stalemate at Stormont continues. It just isn't good enough.

"We need fully empowered institutions providing political direction and resource to our embattled health service. This has to be the priority now."

Funding Awarded To Upgrade Urban Woodland In Newtownabbey

A total of £65,000 funding has been awarded to upgrade an urban woodland in Newtownabbey, Co Antrim.

The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) handed over Monkstown Wood to the Woodland Trust almost 20 years ago.

The money will be invested in upgrade works including improved access, new and improved pathways, quaint stone walls, way-markers, benches and interpretation boards.

The funding is made up of £20,000 from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and almost £45,000 from Biffa Award.

Following the handover, the conservation charity planted thousands of native trees and recently Monkstown Wood was declared a Local Nature Reserve in recognition of its importance to people and wildlife.

Sharon Crooks, NIHE's local Area Manager, said: "This wood is a wonderful natural environment for the local community to enjoy. Since the land was given over to the Woodland Trust it has been transformed. We're delighted the wood will be further enhanced for the benefit of local people."

Rosie Irwin from the Woodland Trust said: "This wood is already well used by local people and groups, from dog walkers to anglers. But, with the forthcoming improvements, we want to put Monkstown firmly on the map. We want it to become a favourite with everyone – nature lovers and visitors from further afield."

The work is expected to be completed by next spring.

Three Men Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

Three men have been convicted for claiming benefits they were not entitled to at Craigavon Magistrates' Court.

Ladislav Mokry claimed Jobseeker's Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £3,914 while failing to declare employment. He was sentenced to four months imprisonment suspended for two years.

William Donaldson claimed Jobseeker's Allowance totalling £456 while failing to declare employment. He was fined £300 and ordered to pay £15 court costs.

Justin Livingston claimed Jobseeker's Allowance totalling £916 while failing to declare a pension. He was fined £100 and ordered to pay £15 court costs.

All are also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department for Communities.

(CD)