04/02/2025

Other News In Brief

SF And DUP 'Not Serious' About Stormont Reforms – SDLP

The SDLP has accused Sinn Féin and the DUP of not being serious about introducing reforms at Stormont.

Leader of the Opposition Matthew O'Toole MLA expressed his regret that the First and deputy First Minister refused to commit to not resigning their position before the end of the current Assembly mandate.

The SDLP's Opposition Day motion was defeated with votes against from the DUP and the UUP. Sinn Féin abstained.

South Belfast MLA Mr O'Toole said: "Despite public claims to the contrary, Sinn Féin, the DUP and the UUP have proven they are not serious about reforming Stormont and delivering stability in government. We have seen over the last year how the current arrangements fail to deliver for people, but these parties are more than happy with the current set-up as it serves their own ends and their polarising brand of politics.

"If we want to rebuild the public's trust in government and politics here then we first must remove the ability of any one party to collapse Stormont at any time. This acts as a constant sword hanging over our institutions and paralyses politics here.

"We have heard much crowing about these parties' modest achievements in government today, but when it came to putting real accountability at the heart of the Executive, they once again failed to rise to the challenge. One year one from the restoration of the institutions the First and deputy First Minister won't even commit not to collapse the place before the end of this mandate. For some parties their own selfish interests will always take precedence over what's best for people in Northern Ireland."

Police Appeal for Information Following Burglary in Lisburn

Detectives in Lisburn are appealing for witnesses and information following a burglary at a house in the Park Lodge area last night, Monday 3rd February.

The burglary occurred sometime between 7pm and 7.20pm, during which jewellery was stolen from an upstairs bedroom.

"The jewellery taken was not only valuable but was of sentimental value to the owner," said Detective Inspector Lenaghan. "There was no one in the property at the time of the burglary, and no further items appeared to have been taken."

Police are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time of the burglary and may have dashcam, phone video, or other footage that could assist with their investigation.
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"We would also appeal to anyone who saw any suspicious activity, or who has information which could assist us, to contact 101 and quote reference number 1650 03/02/25," Detective Inspector Lenaghan added.

A report can be submitted 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/.

Alliance Prepared To Stand Up To Polluters – Blair

The Alliance Party has criticised other Executive parties for failing to "stand up to polluters", after their rejection of stricter penalties for repeat offenders.

South Antrim MLA and Environment Spokesperson, John Blair, was speaking after the Assembly passed a motion that rejects tightening penalties for those who repeatedly pollute our environment. A move to reverse a 2022 relaxation of the rules under then DAERA Minister Poots.

Blair said: "I am utterly dismayed by the actions of the other parties today. These regulations are designed to protect our environment and food systems, and are essential to hold repeated polluters of our environment accountable.

"The contradiction of opposing parties is alarming. They claim to advocate for environmental protection, but consistently resist measures that would penalise polluters, causing further harm to our environment and vital waterways like Lough Neagh, and address serious matters that relate to food security and traceability.

"It was only last May all parties except the DUP supported a motion advocating for stricter penalties in Belfast City Council, yet decisive action in the Assembly from the SDLP, UUP and SF is absent.

"Let's be clear, farmers who practice good stewardship deserve support, while those who repeatedly pollute must face consequences. These penalties should never have been relaxed in 2022. It was a poor decision made by the previous Minister, who showed no concern for the future.

"I am disheartened by today’s outcome, especially since environmental challenges call for immediate action and we must take every necessary step to support our farmers whilst reviving the health of our waterways, ecosystems, and biodiversity.

"As Minister Muir continues to work towards addressing past mistakes, it’s clear that only Alliance is committed to tackling the environmental challenges that will impact future generations. While opposing parties continue to prioritise short-term gains over the essential need for long-term sustainability.

"The decisions we make will influence the environmental health of future generations, and all parties must now reflect on their choices today."

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