Other News In Brief

Flooding Causing Delays Near Belfast Train Station

A road in Belfast City Centre has been closed this afternoon due to flooding.

Deep water has formed on the Laganbank Road under the railway bridge where the route runs to Lanyon Place Station.

It is understood that road closed signs have appeared at the site which is well known for its regular flooding.

It comes after several hours of heavy rain.

Alliance Calls On Dissident Republicans To Withdraw Threats

An Alliance MLA has called on the dissident republicans behind a series of threats against vehicle recovery firms in Northern Ireland who work for the police to withdraw their statements immediately.

It comes after a group called the 'New IRA' claimed they were responsible for a recent arson attack which damaged several vehicles, and also threatened a number of other firms who recover vehicles for the PSNI.

MLA for east Antrim Stewart Dickson said: "This is a delinquent and vicious activity against people who are simply doing their job. These companies work for the community and the benefit of people in it.
 These dissidents are doing nothing but attempting to deprive people of their livelihoods. There is no place for any paramilitarism in our society, no matter what organisation. It is concerning these actions could lead to an injury or fatality.

"I call on these dissidents to remove any threats, get off the backs of people doing their job and disband entirely."

Belfast City Hall Lights Up Teal For Belfast Giants

Belfast City Hall was illuminated in teal lights last night to celebrate the Belfast Giant's recent championship wins and the graduation of care experienced young people from the Odyssey Ice Academy.

It comes after the team was crowned Elite League Champions, adding to their victory in the Challenge Cup and their securing of the Erhardt conference.

A reception hosted by the Lord Mayor of Belfast also celebrated the class of 2018-19 cohort of care-experienced young people as they graduated from the Odyssey Ice Academy and officially became 'Community Giants'.

Speaking at the reception the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Deirdre Hargey said: "We were delighted to host the Belfast Giants and Community Giants this evening. The Giants have had an incredible season so far and it's fitting that we mark their remarkable achievements on the ice by illuminating City Hall in celebration. As well as being amazing athletes, they are fantastic ambassadors who have made an outstanding contribution to our city. The Ice Academy has made a real difference to the lives of young people in the North of Ireland and the Belfast Giants have been truly inspiring mentors for these young people. I'm delighted that we could welcome everyone to City Hall this evening to celebrate their achievements both on and off the ice."

Head Coach of the Belfast Giants, Adam Keefe, added: "This has been an incredible year for the Belfast Giants. We are delighted the City has recognised the success of the team and turned Belfast City Hall teal. The support that we get from our fans means the world to us. This year has also allowed us to support another intake of Odyssey Ice Academy graduates to learn new skills and develop their talents, which has been another exciting achievement for our players."



(JG/CM)