Other News In Brief

NI Missing Out On Levelling Up Funding 'Unacceptable' – UUP

The UUP has described the decision by the UK government to not award Northern Ireland any funding in the 3rd round of the Levelling Up programme as "unacceptable".

East Belfast UUP MLA and Communities Spokesperson Andy Allen said: "This decision by the U.K. Government is yet another example of the people of Northern Ireland being punished for a situation not of their making. It is unacceptable that the Government have taken the decision not to proceed with the latest round of funding, which could have a transformational impact for so many, due to their being no Assembly or Executive.

"I will be writing to the Minister for Levelling up to highlight my dismay at the decision and pressing for it to be reversed."

Alliance Propose 20mph Speed Limit For Residential Areas

A restored Executive must consider the introduction of 20mph speed limit in residential areas, Alliance North Down MLA and Chair of the All Party Group on Cycling Andrew Muir has said.

Marking Road Safety Week, Mr Muir said: "It would be prudent for any future minister to watch how these changes to the speed limit in Wales in certain areas develop over time and consider a focused pilot in Northern Ireland.

"In the meantime, the Cycling APG is exploring, among other policies, how reducing the speed limit to 20mph in residential areas by default could increase the uptake and safety of cycling. As we move towards a net-zero society, we are going to have to encourage people out of their cars and to get more active. In this regard, cycling is a win-win for both our environment and our health.

"During Road Safety Week, it is worth noting that a 20mph limit in residential areas could help reduce collisions by 40%, and if a person or cyclist is hit at this speed, they are five times less likely to be killed. Not only is this a life-saving policy, it will make people feel safer and encourage more people to take up active travel in built-up areas. We should have a restored Executive considering these merits by trialling the 20mph policy and also giving councils the power to reduce speed limits.

"I understand there will be concerns from motorists. However, as a society, we need to be less car-reliant going forward and 30mph would remain an option where it is safe to do so. It's long since time we had a stable, restored government that is looking to best practice across these islands and legislating for the people of Northern Ireland accordingly."

DUP Brings Commons Motion On Ulster Scots Language Week

DUP MP for East Londonderry, Gregory Campbell, has marked Ulster Scots Language Week with a motion in the House of Commons.

"The Ulster Scots language surrounds us in Northern Ireland, with many people often unaware of the Ulster Scots words and phrases they use in everyday speech," Mr Campbell said.

"The last Census showed just how widespread its usage is, and a growing number of people are engaging in and embracing Ulster Scots. The Language Week is an opportunity for people to learn more and to celebrate this linguistic diversity.

"The activities during this week are taking place across all corners of Northern Ireland as well as border counties of the Republic. The richness of the language will be expressed through poetry, storytelling, song and talks on many of the significant Ulster Scots figures who have shaped not just our history, but around the world.

"Ulster Scots Language Week will not only showcase and celebrate the language, but it does so in a positive and inclusive way, not being politicised but showing how it is truly open and accessible to everyone."