Other News In Brief

Bonfire Organisers Must Ensure There Are No Displays Of Hate – SF

Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly has called on the organisers of August bonfires to ensure there are no displays of hate.

The party's policing spokesperson said: "There is an onus on the organisers of the small number of August 15th bonfires to ensure they pass off peacefully and without displays of hatred.

"There can be no repeat of the images on some loyalist bonfires in July which were blatant displays of hate and sectarianism.

"There is no place for the burning of flags, posters and effigies on bonfires anywhere in our society.

"Anyone involved in the organisation of these bonfires should ensure that is the case."

Appeal For Information On Fatal Scrambler Bike Collision In Magherafelt

The PSNI have issued an appeal for information following a fatal scrambler bike crash in Magherafelt on the afternoon of Saturday 13 August.

A man, aged in his 20s, has died after the scrambler bike he was riding crashed on the Castledawson Road at around 4pm.

Police are investigating the circumstances of the collision.

Anyone who may have witnessed the collision, especially any motorists who may have dashcam footage, is asked to contact police.

Executive Reforms Needed To Support NI Businesses

Sinn Féin have called for Executive reforms to put support in place for businesses experiencing their biggest drop in sales in ten years according to the Ulster Bank purchasing managers index.

North Belfast MP John Finucane said: "Business sales have dropped dramatically in the past two months due to inflation and the cost of living crisis. The Executive needs to be restored and the British Government must allocate funding to support our businesses and workers through these challenges.

"The cost of living crisis has reduced the ability of workers and families to buy even basics as people choose to heat or eat. This has had a knock-on effect on retailers iwho have experienced the biggest drop in sales in ten years.

"With a recession looming workers, families and businesses need to know that they will be supported. I am urging the DUP to end its boycott of our democratic institutions and get money out to those who are struggling.

"There is also an onus on the British Government to stump up additional funding so the Executive has the resources to support business through these unprecedented challenges."