Other News In Brief

Public Urged To Stay Safe This Christmas

As the holiday season gets underway, the PSNI in Derry City and Strabane is asking everyone to take reasonable and sensible steps to stay safe.

Chief Inspector Jonny Hunter said: "Many people will be taking the opportunity over the next few weeks to catch up with friends, socialise with work colleagues or start the Christmas celebrations early. Whatever the reason, please celebrate safely. Officers will be out on patrol in our city, towns and villages throughout the holiday season to provide reassurance and keep people safe as part of Operation Season's Greetings."

Councillor Sandra Duffy, Chair of the Derry and Strabane PCSP, added: "Christmas is a great time to meet up with friends and family to enjoy the superb hospitality our district has on offer. I would advise everyone to ensure that this is an enjoyable time and to stay safe. Enjoy your night out and return home safely."

Top tips for celebrating safely:

• Watch your alcohol intake – alcohol affects everyone differently

• Never leave your drink unattended at any time

• Do not accept a drink from a stranger

• Stay calm and walk away if someone provokes you

• Get home safe - ensure you have a taxi ordered or get home with a friend who has not been drinking

• Do not drink and drive

• All sexual touching without consent is a crime

• If you need support over the Christmas holidays then don’t be afraid to ask.

• 24 hour Domestic & Sexual Abuse Helpline – 0808 802 1414

• Lifeline (24 hours) – 0808 808 8000

• Samaritans (24 hours) – 116 123

• Hurt (Mon to Fri 9am to 4.30pm) – 028 71369 696

• Foyle Search and Rescue – 028 7131 3800

• Community Crisis Intervention Service – 028 71262300

• Police 101 or in an emergency dial 999

£9m Water Scheme Launched In Enniskillen

Residents in Fermanagh and Clogher Valley are set to benefit from a more secure water supply courtesy of a £9 million investment.

The Killyhevlin Water Treatment Works have gotten underway, which will see the construction of a new clear water storage tank on site and a new Pumping Station.

These Enniskillen works will allow for a future increase in water supply demands.

Dawson WAM is the main contractor for this major programme of work with Capita providing Project Management and technical support.

Paul Davison Head of Water Capital Procurement at NI Water said: "We are delighted that this major investment at Killyhevlin Water Treatment Works is now well underway, which will bring many improvements to our customers, including improved water quality and security of the water supply for our customers.

"The Killyhevlin plant treats water from the River Erne and supplies around 36 million litres of water per day to Fermanagh and the Clogher Valley.

"This upgrade will be particularly important during winter periods and other emergency situations and will help us to continue to deliver a world-class water service to the Fermanagh and Clogher Valley region."

The Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Councillor Siobhan Currie added: "The Council welcomes this major investment here at Killyhevlin, which will greatly improve services for NI Water customers throughout County Fermanagh. I was impressed to see great construction progress at the new water storage tank, which will protect the local water infrastructure."

Road Works Announced In Portadown

Road works have been announced for Portadown in early 2020.

The £167,000 scheme will see a section of Princess Way resurfaced from the junction of Killicomaine Road to Edenderry Primary School.

Work will begin on Monday 06 January and run until Friday 07 February.

A daily road closure will be implemented between 9.30am and 4.30pm throughout the works. During these times a two-way diversion will be in place via Killicomaine Road, Gilford Road and Princess Way.

Diversionary routes will be clearly signed and local access for residents and businesses will be maintained at all times during the works.

Drivers should expect some delays and are advised to leave additional time when travelling in the area.



(JG/MH)