18/11/2016

Other News In Brief

Delay In Attendance Allowance Payments

People expecting to receive Attendance Allowance on Monday, 21 November, will now receive it on Tuesday, 22 November.

A spokesperson said: "Due to a technical issue with the benefit system, 11,800 Attendance Allowance claimants will receive their benefit payment one day late. The payments were due to be paid on Monday 21 November but will now not be paid until Tuesday 22 November.

"Officials considered options to try and ensure payments could be paid on time but there was no feasible option.

"Anyone who is concerned about the delay should contact the Disability and Carers Service for advice. The telephone number is 0300 123 3356. The Department apologises for any inconvenience this delay may cause."

£13.4m Wind Farm Opens In Co Antrim

Energy firm Gaelectric has opened a new £13.4 million wind farm in Co Antrim.

The 9.2MW wind farm at Cloonty includes four Enercon wind turbines, with a maximum blade tip height of 110 metres. It will generate sufficient green renewable power to meet the electricity demand of over 5,000 homes on an annual basis.

The wind farm will also create jobs, support workforce skills and contribute to economic activity in the area. To date, the project has created over 20 full time and part time jobs during its development and construction phase.

Amount Of Criminal Activity In North Belfast Condemned

Ulster Unionist MLA Gareth McKee has condemned the amount of criminal activity which as occurred in the Ballysillan area of north Blefast over the last three days.

People's homes have been attacked, taxi drivers have had their cars broken into and three Scottish soldiers memorial have been desecrated.

Mr McKee said: "The last 72 hours have been depressing and frustrating for local residents, with homes attacked and cars broken into by criminals. Last night a number of taxi drivers in the local area had their cars broken into by criminals searching for money.

"I would urge people to be vigilant and to make sure all their doors and windows are locked and any belongings hidden out of sight. I have been in contact with the PSNI and will be seeking a meeting to press for extra resources and to discuss what plans are in place to combat this activity in the run up to Christmas."

(CD)






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