04/02/2020

Other News In Brief

Appeal As Money Stolen From Child In Belfast

Police are appealing for information after a sum of money was stolen from a child in west Belfast.

Police said the 12 year-old boy was targeted by a man in the Cluain Mor area at around 7pm on Saturday 01 February.

The unknown male is described as being approximately 5'11" in height, of skinny build and with his face covered by a black snood. He wore a black hooded top with the hood pulled up, black tracksuit bottoms and black trainers.

The suspect made off from the scene on foot after stealing the money.

A PSNI spokesperson issued an appeal for information, saying: "Help us to catch this coward who felt it was acceptable to steal from a child! Let's work together to keep our local communities safe."

Anyone who was in the area around 7pm on Saturday and has dash cam footage or information they believe may be relevant is urged to contact Woodbourne police on 101 quoting reference 1668 of 01/02/2020.

Call For Caution As Slurry Period Commences

Farmers are urged to be cautious as the open period for spreading slurry commences.

The Ulster Farmers' Union advised farmers to stop, think and prioritise their own safety before they conduct slurry work on the farm.

UFU deputy president Victor Chestnutt said the season remains a concern for every farming family.

"Working with slurry is one of the most dangerous jobs for a farmer as slurry gas contains poisonous hydrogen sulphide," he commented. "The gas releases very quickly and in large volumes as soon as mixing begins so it is vital that farmers take time to plan ahead, consider their surroundings and the weather before they begin any slurry work, putting their own safety first. Too many farmers have experienced 'near misses' and we are encouraging them to change the way they think about these close calls which are only a moment away from a fatal accident happening."

The Farm Safety Partnership was supported by the UFU to develop the 'Stop and Think Safe' campaign to tackle high levels of serious accidents and deaths on local farms. 'SAFE' reflects the four main causes of fatal accidents, one of which is slurry.

Further information about working safely with slurry and general farming health and safety issues is available via the HSENI helpline on 0800 0320 121 or via the website.

North Belfast Road Closes For Improvements

A key residential route in North Belfast has closed for resurfacing work.

Work has begun to improve a 750-metre section on Duncairn Gardens between the Antrim Road and North Queen Street.

The scheme will run until Sunday 16 February.

Weekday road closures will be in place from Monday 03 February until Friday 14 February between 9.30am until 4.30pm.

Further closures will take place on Sunday 09 and 16 February between 7am and 4.30pm.
 Diversionary routes will be signed and access for residents and businesses will be maintained as much as possible.

Road users should expect some delays and allow additional time when planning any journey.




(JG/CM)

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