DoH Urged To Agree New Contract With GPs

The Alliance Party has called on the Department of Health (DoH) to agree a new contract with GPs to ensure people can more easily access services.

The party's Health spokesperson, Nuala McAllister MLA, said last week’s deal between the UK Government and GPs in England, which saw an extra £889 million a year given to general practices, as well as a reduction in red tape, designed to allow GPs to see more patients.

"Every MLA has heard repeatedly from constituents about access to and availability of GP services in their area," said Ms McAllister.

"That frustration is shared by GPs and their staff, who have seen their services come under more pressure than ever before. They are worried about outreach and reaching out to patients who desperately need primary care every day.

"GP receptionists have been working hard but simply cannot make their way through the deluge. That situation is repeated across Northern Ireland.

"Last week, the British Medical Association announced a package of an extra £889 following negotiations with the UK Government. Yet the negotiations here between the BMA NI and the Department of Health have been described by the Minister as ‘toxic’.

"That debate is not toxic but rather essential if we are going to be able to ensure people can access GP services, while allowing GPs and their staff to feel valued by everyone across Northern Ireland. I urge the Department to take inspiration from England and agree a new contract with GPs to allow that to happen."

DUP Welcomes Investment Announcement By Communities Minister

The DUP's Foyle MLA, Gary Middleton, has welcomed the announcement by the Communities Minister Gordon Lyons of a £1.2million investment to secure the future of the former Austins department store in L'Derry.

Mr Middleton said: "I believe this investment represents a significant step towards restoring the vibrancy of the city centre.

"This landmark listed building has remained vacant for nearly a decade and this will not only restore a crucial piece of Londonderry’s heritage but also provide a tangible opportunity for further investment in the area.

"I commend my DUP colleague Gordon Lyons MLA, Minister for Communities, the Department for Communities and the Inner City Trust for their vision and dedication to this project.

"I look forward to seeing the building transformed into a space that serves the needs of the community and contributes to the economic prosperity of the region."

Appeal For Information On Armed Robbery In Lisburn

Detectives in Lisburn are appealing for information following a burglary at a house in the Castlereagh area on Monday, 03 March.

At approximately 8:40 pm, a resident returned to their home on Ballylenaghan Road and disturbed three masked men inside. The men, one armed with a knife and another with a stick, threatened the resident before fleeing in a nearby car. They were all wearing dark clothing.

A sum of money, jewellery, and a handbag were reported stolen.

Detective Inspector Bell said: "Our enquiries are ongoing, and we are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time and has dash cam, phone video or other footage which could assist our investigation to contact us."

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/ .