Other News In Brief

Almost 7% Rise In Noise Complaints

Noise complaints rose by almost 7% between April 2018 and March 2019, according to a new report from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).

Figures collated by district councils show that a total of 12,563 complaints were received in 2018/19, up almost 7% compared to the previous year's figure (11,766).

Domestic noise, which includes loud music, televisions, parties and noisy animals accounted for 82% of all noise complaints, according to the latest statistics.

The report's findings show that the majority of complaints to councils concern the following types of noise: Domestic noise – 82%; Commerce and Leisure – 8%; Noise in the street – 3%; Construction – 3%; Industry – 2%; Transport – 2%.

Green Party Welcomes Mother And Baby Home Public Inquiry

The Green Party has welcomed the announcement the the Executive is to establish a public inquiry into mother and baby institutions in Northern Ireland.

The North Down MLA Rachel Woods said: "I welcome the announcement from the Executive that all the recommendations of the Truth Recovery Design Panel have been accepted and that a Public Inquiry will be established, alongside an independent panel, and includes a Redress Scheme.

"This is one of the greatest scandals of our time. Victims and survivors have waited long enough for action from our government. The five party Executive must now ensure that victims and survivors are kept at the heart of this process.

"I understand that record preservation, retention and release is key for so victims and survivors. The forthcoming inquiry and process must help provide them with the information and answers they deserve.

"Yesterday in the Assembly, I urged the Deputy First Minister to commit to adequate funding and resources being allocated from the Executive Office, not only for the Redress Scheme, but for long-term support services for victims and survivors of the mother-and-baby institutions."

Appeal For Missing 55-Year-Old Alastair Adair

The PSNI have issued an appeal for help in tracing the whereabouts of 55-year-old Alastair Adair.

Mr Adair has been reported missing from the Donegall Road area of South Belfast, however, it is not currently known when he went missing.

Police also have no description of Mr Adair clothing.

He is known to have links to the Belvoir area and also Portstewart.

Anyone with any information about the whereabouts of Mr Adair is asked to contact police.