Policing Board Express Concern At PSNI Budget

Members of the Policing Board have registered their concern at the lateness of notification of budgetary provision for the PSNI for the coming financial year.

Speaking on the discussions following a meeting yesterday, 07 March, Board Chair Anne Connolly said: "Board Members share the frustration of the Chief Constable on the PSNI's inability to undertake meaningful strategic financial planning when the notification of the budgetary settlement for the next year has still not been received.

"Given the sheer size, scale and complexity of the policing budget this has significant implications for the PSNI as does the residual issue of it not being able to carry forward strategic financial reserves.

"In addition, the Board performs an important role in terms of approving the PSNI budget and this delay hampers Board Members' ability to exercise due diligence in effectively scrutinising the PSNI's opening budget position.

"The Board will be raising this matter with relevant parties to seek to ensure that there is certainty for the PSNI budget in future years thus assisting their financial planning."

DUP Welcome Terex Investment In L'Derry Facility

DUP MLA for L'Derry, Gary Middleton, has welcomed the announcement of 100 new manufacturing jobs for the city.

The roles come as part of a £12 million investment of global company Terex to build a new manufacturing facility in Campsie.

The Foyle MLA said: "Terex is a global company who has chosen Londonderry as a place of investment. It is a major coup for the city, with 100 new manufacturing jobs and an investment of £12m. This signifies the recognition of this area as an excellent place to do business, in a region where manufacturing plays a significant role in our local economy.

"Londonderry is uniquely placed and with a range of skilled workers, resulting from our University. I'm delighted to see the range of jobs on offer as a result of Terex's ambitious investment and congratulate them on this investment in Londonderry."

The new roles, including production operatives, management and support jobs as well as HR, operations, finance and R&D opportunities will be filled over the next 3-4 years.

New Fashion Boutique For Lisburn City Centre

Vogue, a new women's fashion boutique, is set to offer the people of Lisburn a variety of women's wear with casual and occasion wear along with an assortment of matching accessories.

The retailer is situated in Market Square in the heart of Lisburn City Centre, complete with a bright shop interior and knowledgeable sales advisors to offer a relaxed and memorable shopping experience.

On a visit to the newly opened store, Alderman William Leathem, Chairman of the Development Committee at Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council said: "It is a pleasure to welcome Vogue to our city centre and I wish them every success in their business. Lisburn has a long and proud history of independently run businesses and this new store will bring this same uniqueness to the retail offering that differentiates our High Street from others. We hope this company will continue to build upon their accomplishments."

Gerard Dargan of Vogue commented: "We have invested in this new High Street location within Lisburn City Centre because we feel we really have something great to offer shoppers in terms of a broad clothing range and the customer experience. We hope our bright new shop will compliment other independent businesses in the area."



(JG/CM)