Appeal For Information On Carrickfergus Armed Robbery

The PSNI have issued an appeal for information following a report of an armed robbery at commercial premises at the Bridewell Drive area of Carrickfergus on Monday 11th September.

Detective Sergeant Crothers said: "At around 8:50pm, it was reported that a male entered the shop in the area armed with a knife. It was reported that he demanded money from two female staff members inside and made off with a sum of money following the incident.

"The male is described as being around 6ft in height, heavy build and wearing dark trousers, dark zipped up jacket and a grey hooded top underneath. The male is also described as wearing white trainers and a red coloured mask during the incident.

"Enquiries are continuing and police would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to this investigation, to contact them on 101 quoting reference number 2064 11/09/23. Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

O'Neill Welcomes PEACEPLUS Programme

Sinn Féin's Michelle O’Neill MLA has welcomed the official launch of the €1bn PeacePlus programme.

Speaking at the Shared Space New Forge project in South Belfast, Michelle O'Neill said: "I am delighted to attend today’s much-anticipated launch of PeacePlus.

"While so much has been achieved over the past 25 years since peace was ushered in, so much more remains to be done to boost economic growth and stimulate social and economic regeneration to ensure all communities feel the benefits of peace.

"This new €1bn investment by the two governments and the European Union is designed to support peace and prosperity across the North, and the border counties where it will have real impact at grassroots level.

"The PeacePlus programme is being managed by cross-border body, SEUPB, who are currently accepting applications across the programme investment areas.

"I would therefore encourage organisations to make contact with the programme and see how they can bring benefits to their local community."

SDLP's Séamas de Faoite Elected Chair Of Future Of The City Centre Working Group

SDLP Belfast City Council Group Leader and Lisnasharragh Councillor Séamas de Faoite has been elected chair of the Council's Future of the City Centre working group.

The group will focus on addressing the issues impacting the city centre, driving regeneration, and attracting investment.

Councillor de Faoite said: "There's been a lot of talk in recent years around how we tackle the problems that exist in Belfast and exploit the opportunities to make our city a modern, thriving, and welcoming place to live and visit. But unfortunately there hasn't been enough action. We have been dealing with issues around cleanliness, vacant buildings, the night time economy and mental health and addiction issues that require our immediate attention.

"I am determined to drive the change our city needs. The SDLP's priorities include the promotion of our nighttime economy through the appointment of a Night Mayor, pedestrianisation our city centre, active travel routes and the creation of more green spaces. We also want to establish safe spaces and support networks for those suffering from addiction, mental health issues and homelessness.

"We will not be able to solve these problems overnight but as Chair of the working group I will be making progress a top priority. There is huge potential that exists within Belfast, we are a growing city with a young, diverse and talented population. The SDLP is working to build a cleaner, fairer future for Belfast in a new Ireland."