Other News In Brief

Alliance Slams 'Utterly Despicable' Primary School Security Alert

Those who left a weapon in the grounds of a primary school in north Belfast are "utterly despicable" local Alliance Councillor Nuala McAllister has claimed.

The improvised weapon was discovered at Holy Cross Boys' Primary on Monday evening, 23 September. Police said it was most likely left by dissident republicans in the hope of seriously injuring their officers.

The device was found by the principal and caretaker, and the school remains closed today while the incident is dealt with.

"Let's be honest, those behind this weapon left it in a school playground, putting the lives of young children at severe risk," Councillor McAllister said.

"We have seen a number of similar incidents lately, designed to attack PSNI officers. These dissidents need to leave the stage immediately and utterly. They represent no-one, offer nothing and have no major support in the local community.

"No doubt this will be distressing for many parents, who will have to attempt to explain to their children why their school is closed. My thanks go to the staff at Holy Cross Boys' for their quick actions.

"If anyone has any information on this incident, I urge them to take it to police immediately."

If members of the public believe they can assist the investigation or noticed suspicious activity in the area, they can contact detectives on 101 quoting reference 1169 of 23/09/19.

Support Made Available For Flood-Hit Residents In Co Tyrone

A number of support funds have been made available after flash floods damaged a number of homes in Sion Mills, Co Tyrone, on Sunday 22 September.

Work is continuing to ensure properties affected are restored to normality and staff from the Housing Executive, Department for Infrastructure, Red Cross and Council have been on the ground to support and advise residents in the aftermath of the flooding.

Council has activated the Scheme for Emergency Financial Aid and Environmental Health Officers are available for anyone requiring a home assessment. An appointment can be made by contacting 02871 253253.

Residents of Housing Executive properties in need of assistance can gain advice by calling 0344 8920 901.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Michaela Boyle, offered her support to residents impacted by the flooding. She also praised the joint efforts of the community working with emergency and statutory agencies as the seriousness of the situation developed on Sunday evening.

"I would like to acknowledge the work of everyone who was involved in Sunday night's event," Cllr Boyle commented. "This was a significant weather event which could have had wider consequences for those living in the area. The community effort on the ground was tremendous and neighbours worked hard to lend support where they could in the worst affected areas.

"The multi-agency approach was swift and people were on the ground where needed to offer assistance and those efforts continue on into this week with a range of services being made available for anyone who has been affected.

"I would encourage anyone whose home has been damaged to get in contact with Council or the Department for Communities to see what financial assistance is available through the Scheme of Emergency Financial Assistance or the DfC Wraparound Service. Help is there for anyone in difficulty."

Visit the NI Direct or council website for further information on flooding.

Cross-Party Meeting Held Over L'Derry Medical School

A cross-party meeting has took place with the Head of the Civil Service to discuss progress on a medical school for L'Derry.

The plans will see a Postgraduate Medical School developed at Ulster University's Magee campus.

Following the meeting, Sinn Féin MP Elisha McCallion issued a plea to the civil service to approve the business case.

The Foyle MP said: "Today we once again met with the Head of the Civil Service and other officials to discuss progress on a medical school for Derry.

"The potential to create investment, train more doctors and plug the existing staff shortfalls exists through this project.

"Completion of the Medical School will be a key step towards the overall expansion of Magee University and the economic regeneration of the north west.

"It's important that there is cross-party support for this project and that we are speaking with a united voice.

"The civil service should finally approve the business case and ensure the medical school is delivered for the north west."



(JG/CM)