Other News In Brief

SDLP Call For Urgent Action To End Misogynistic Abuse And Harassment

SDLP Leader, Colum Eastwood MP has called for urgent action to end misogynistic abuse and harassment faced by many, particularly women, in public life.

Mr Eastwood was speaking following the "brave testimony" on BBC Radio Foyle from Deputy Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Cllr Cara Hunter to share her experiences, the Foyle MP.

He said: "I applaud my party colleague Cara Hunter for her bravery in speaking out and sharing her story to help others. The fact remains though that she should not have to face this kind of abuse or feel threatened when trying to serve her constituents."

"It is unfortunate that this is not unique and it happens to public representatives across the North and around the world. Many elected members, particularly women, face relentless abuse of a personal nature on social media."

"We need to put civility back into public debate. Elected representatives should be able to fulfil their role and represent their constituents robustly without fear of abuse or harassment. Enough is enough."

Graffiti Targeting Journalist In L'Derry Condemned

Graffiti targeting a journalist in L'Derry has been condemned by Sinn Féin Martina Anderson, who also praised local people in the community who removed the graffiti.

Martina Anderson said: "I unreservedly condemn those responsible for graffiti in Creggan last night targeting a journalist who lives in our local community.

"Freedom of press is a key cornerstone to any pluralist and democratic society.

"Journalists play a critical role in shining a light on the issues which impact on our society, their work is to the benefit of citizens.

"Those involved in journalism must be protected and they must be able to do their work free from intimidation, harassment and death threats.

"I want to extend my thanks to community activists who moved swiftly to paint over the graffiti.

"Those behind this threat have nothing to offer the people of this community and this city.

"They will not be allowed to intimidate journalists or the people of this city. Their reckless attempts will not succeed."

Major Resurfacing Works Due To Start In Ballygowan and Newtownhamilton

Two major resurfacing schemes are due to get underway in Ballygowan and Newtownhamilton.

Infrastructure Minister, Nichola Mallon, has said that a £275,000 carriageway resurfacing scheme on the Carrickmannon Road, Ballygowan will begin on Monday 10 February 2020.

The resurfacing work will extend a distance of 1,600 metres from its junction with Bog Road to its junction with Station Road.

Minister Mallon said: "This scheme will greatly enhance the road surface for all who use it and will better connect the local community and visitors to the area for many years to come.

"We in DfI are working with our stakeholders to co-ordinate these essential roadworks and are publishing details in advance to help people plan alternate routes."

The road will be open to traffic in the evenings during the week and all day Saturday and Sunday.

Minister Mallon also announced that a £250,000 carriageway resurfacing scheme on the Dundalk Road, Newtownhamilton, will also begin on Monday 10 February and is planned to be complete by 14 March.

The improvement works will include resurfacing a 1.3km stretch of road from a point 200m south of Blaney Road, to Cullyhanna Road.

Minister Mallon said: "I have made clear my intent to tackle the regional imbalance in infrastructure. I want any investment in road maintenance to reflect the need across our entire network. I am pleased to announce this £250,000 investment in the Newtownhamilton area.

"We are working with our stakeholders to co-ordinate these essential roadworks and are publishing details in advance to help people plan alternative routes and manage disruption."