Sinn Féin MLA welcomes Seagate investment in Derry

Sinn Féin MLA Ciara Ferguson has said that the recent £115 million investment by Seagate Technology in Derry will provide a "major boost" to the local economy.

The Foyle MLA made her comments after the investment was announced by the First Minister, deputy First Minister and Economy Minister in the city.

Ms Ferguson stated that creating jobs and building a thriving economy is "at the heart of Minister Archibald’s vision" and that the announcement is a "huge boost" for the North West. She added that the investment will be a "real driver" for the economy and will mean more local workers and families can access better career opportunities.

The Foyle MLA said the North West is a "thriving economic hub" and that her party would continue working in the Executive to "unlock the full potential of Derry" and establish it as an "exciting place to live, work and study."

MLA Slams Exclusion Of L'Derry Clubs From Football Fund

SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan has criticised the decision to exclude clubs from the North West, including Derry City Football Club and Institute FC, from the Northern Ireland Football Fund. He described the outcome as a "bitter disappointment" and an "utter farce," noting that most of the funding was awarded to clubs in the greater Belfast area. The Foyle MLA said that the decision came as no surprise from a "DUP-led department." He said that despite significant progress redeveloping the Brandywell Stadium in recent years, Derry City has been waiting for nearly 15 years since the Sub Regional Stadia Programme was first announced.

Mr Durkan said the SDLP had received repeated assurances from Sinn Féin Ministers that funding for Derry City was "guaranteed." He added that he will be challenging Communities Minister Gordon Lyons directly to explain the outcome and that the party will continue to fight for funding for Derry City and other clubs in future stages.

Arrest made in connection with 5G mast attacks

Detectives in Belfast have made a further arrest in connection with their ongoing investigation into recent arson attacks on 5G masts in the city.

A 45-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of 26 counts of arson following a planned search at a property in the west Belfast area on Thursday, 11 September.

He remains in custody at this time. The PSNI has said it is very aware of the "damaging impact" these incidents are having on the community, with the disruption to network signal affecting many people’s day-to-day lives, particularly the more vulnerable.

Detective Inspector McAnee stated that the investigation remains active with multiple lines of enquiry being pursued. He added that police are committed to catching those responsible and stopping the attacks.