28/06/2017

Other News In Brief

Man Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A man has been convicted for claiming benefits he was not entitled to at Belfast Magistrates' Court.

Paul McDonald claimed Jobseeker's Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £3,092 while failing to declare employment. He was given a two year conditional discharge.

He is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department for Communities.

Plans Submitted To Save Historic Building In Co Down

Lacuna Developments has submitted plans to save a historic building in Holywood, Co Down.

The development in Stewart's Place partially collapsed in July last year.

Alliance Councillor Andrew Muir welcomed the plans.

He said: "Working alongside Holywood Conservation Group a brighter future has been secured for the building which rightly drew much ire from Holywood traders and residents alike as a result of the traffic chaos the road closure caused.

"Through dogged determination to get the road re-opened and a real passion for saving our built heritage I am delighted to have played a part in saving this listed building and commend Lacuna Developments for the courage shown in taking on this building and pursuing plans which will hopefully turn this site into another great Holywood landmark. I look forward to working with the new developer and seeing this project through to completion."

Public Urged To Attend Marriage Equality March

Sinn Féin MLA Megan Fearon has called for everyone who supports marriage equality and equal rights for all to attend this Saturday’s Marriage Equality March in Belfast.

The Newry and Armagh MLA said: "Two years ago over 20,000 people attended a marriage equality march in Belfast.

"I am calling on everyone who believes in equality and rights for all to attend this Saturday’s march and make it the biggest ever.

"Sinn Féin members will be taking part in the march as we believe in equality, respect, recognition and rights for all citizens. Equality is at the core of everything we stand for.

"There can be no place for sectarianism, racism, homophobia, sexism, misogyny or any form of discrimination in our society.

"We are committed to seeing the extension of equal marriage across the north, it is a very simple and reasonable request to afford people their rights.

"Sinn Féin will continue to stand up for the LGB and T communities and challenge prejudice wherever it arises.

"Anyone wishing to march with us are asked to assemble at 2pm at the Buoys in Writers Square, the march itself will start at 2.30pm from Writers Square."

(CD/MH)




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