SDLP Calls For Action On West Belfast Mobile Coverage

SDLP West Belfast Councillor Paul Doherty has highlighted the urgent need to address poor mobile phone coverage in the area, speaking ahead of an Assembly debate on the issue.

Numerous residents and businesses in West Belfast have reported ongoing coverage problems in recent years.

Councillor Doherty stated: "Poor mobile phone coverage has been a blight on this area for years. The senseless attacks on 5G masts have left parts of West Belfast without any signal at all, seriously impacting local residents and businesses. Despite numerous meetings with providers, police, and affected communities, the problem continues."

He emphasised that the issue extends beyond social media access, impacting critical services and vulnerable individuals. "This isn't just about accessing social media or apps," Councillor Doherty explained. "I've spoken to health workers who've missed critical calls and shifts and taxi firms unable to get people to school, work, or appointments. It's particularly worrying for older and vulnerable people who rely on their phones for safety and connection."

The councillor condemned the attacks on infrastructure, noting their detrimental effect on public safety and the significant costs involved in repairs. "These attacks must stop, they're putting public safety at risk and causing real harm. Replacing damaged infrastructure is costly and time-consuming," he said.

Councillor Doherty concluded by reiterating his commitment to resolving the problem: "Reliable mobile and internet coverage is essential in modern life and I'll continue working with all stakeholders until this issue is resolved."

Economy Minister Welcomes Pay Agreement Between Colleges And Unions

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has welcomed the decision by members of the University and College Union (UCU) and the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) to accept an increased pay offer for further education lecturers.

The Minister stated: "I am pleased, that having worked to secure the necessary budget required to enable the further education colleges to make a pay offer to lecturers, that this offer has now been accepted. I commend the further education colleges and trade union representatives for their constructive engagement to bring about this multi-year pay deal. This brings an end to industrial action, benefiting staff and students alike."

The accepted pay deal includes a 5.5% increase for the 2024/25 academic year, which aligns with the offer accepted by teachers. Additionally, a 3% pay increase has been accepted for the 2025/26 academic year.

Man Charged After Dungiven Handgun Report

A 47-year-old man has been charged to court by detectives investigating a report of a man with a handgun in the Dungiven area on Monday, 19th May.

The man faces a number of charges, including possession of a firearm in suspicious circumstances.

He is scheduled to appear before Limavady Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 11 June.

As is standard procedure, all charges will undergo review by the Public Prosecution Service.