Other News In Brief

Man Arrested In Connection With Racially-Motivated Hate Crime

A 30-year-old man has been arrested by detectives investigation reports of online threats towards an individual in L'Derry.

The report is being treated as a racially-motivated hate crime.

The man attended Strand Road station where he was subsequently arrested on suspicion of harassment, threats to kill and improper use of a public electronic communications network.

He remains in custody at this time.

Local policing Inspector Craig said: "I want to assure the public that we take reports of online threats and harassment extremely seriously. I would encourage anyone who has been the victim of such behaviour to contact police on 101, or on 999 in an emergency."

Alliance Welcome New Agreement On GP Services

The Alliance Party has welcomed the news of a new agreement of a new contract for GPs which includes the cost of indemnity charges.

Alliance Health spokesperson, Nuala McAllister MLA, said: "Until now, GPs in Northern Ireland were the only group in the UK which did not benefit from a government scheme for indemnity costs. This is something the sector has been highlighting for a lengthy period of time, and which I have raised with the Health Minister on multiple occasions since joining the health committee.

"I hope this new agreement can help stabilise already struggling GP services, and discussions can continue to ensure full parity with the rest of the UK in the long term.

"Recruitment and retention are a major challenge in the sector and I hope the change to indemnity charges can increase the number of trainees who choose to practise in Northern Ireland. "With an ageing population, growing waiting lists, and emergency departments over-flowing, it is crucial that primary care is accessible and in a position to provide that first stage of care when appropriate.

"While it is welcome to see progress being made on this contract negotiation, it is crucial for the Health Minister to make progress on a number of outstanding negotiations, including junior doctors, consultants, and dentists. The Minister must do everything in his power to avoid the need for further industrial action."

Appeal For Witnesses Following Attempted Robbery In Lurgan

Police in Lurgan have issued an appeal for information and witnesses following an attempted robbery at commercial premises in the town in the early hours of Sunday, 5th May.

A police spokesman said: "Police received a report that a masked man had entered the business on Gilpinstown Road at around 1.40am and demanded money from staff.

"The man, who is described as approximately 5ft 5in tall, wearing a grey jacket, blue balaclava, grey jogging bottoms and carrying a multi-coloured bag, left empty-handed.

"It was also reported that he made threats towards a member of the public as he made off.

"Thankfully, although shaken by the ordeal, none of those involved were injured. Our investigation is ongoing.

"It is believed that the suspect left on foot in the direction of Portadown Road. We would ask anyone who was in the area at the time or who may have dashcam, CCTV or other footage, to call us on 101, quoting reference number 155 of 05/05/24."

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org