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02/07/2024
Other News In Brief
Alliance Condemns Sectarian-Motivated Attack On Houses In Antrim
The Alliance Party has condemned sectarian attacks on two homes in the Redford grove development in Antrim, with MLA John Blair stating that "there is no place for hatred or intolerance in Antrim".
It’s been reported that the two new build properties had been subject to paint damage, and that two windows had been smashed. One of the houses was occupied at the time, and the incident is being treated by PSNI as a sectarian-motivated hate crime.
Mr Blair has said: "Everyone has a right to feel safe in their home, and in the wider community. This kind of behaviour is totally unacceptable and does not in any way reflect the feelings of the wider Antrim community.
"There is no place here for hatred or intolerance of any kind, including blatant sectarian intimidation. These thugs represent the views of nobody but themselves and achieve nothing through their actions other than committing criminal damage.
"All local representatives must be unequivocal in their condemnation of this kind of behaviour, in standing together against hatred right on our doorstep, and in supporting the police in their investigations going forward.
"I would encourage anyone with any potentially relevant information relating to this incident to please contact the PSNI, or report it anonymously via Crimestoppers."
UUP's Andy Allen Welcomes Additional Housing Funding
The UUP's housing spokesperson and East Belfast MLA, Andy Allen, has welcomed the allocation of an additional £20 million through the June monitoring round for new social housing starts but emphasised that it is far from enough.
Mr Allen said: "I welcome the allocation of an additional £20 million for the delivery of social housing; however, it is nowhere near enough. Even with this additional funding, the number of new social housing starts that can be delivered with the total allocated budget will be around 600 homes. Given the growing need, this number barely scratches the surface.
"The United Kingdom is currently in the grip of a severe housing crisis, with a significant number of citizens lacking a secure home. This dire situation, marked by an alarming rise in property prices and rental costs, is forcing many into housing insecurity or even homelessness. We need to urgently reassess our response to the housing crisis in Northern Ireland. Our housing services are beyond breaking point, and without a robust plan to deliver more social and affordable homes proactively, the pressure will only increase.
"Many experiencing homelessness are being offered temporary accommodation far from their communities, severing support networks and family connections, and disrupting schooling and work. The type, availability, and location of temporary accommodation often exacerbate the challenges those already under significant stress face.
"Alongside local measures which the Department for Communities can implement to tackle homelessness and deliver an increased number of social and affordable homes, it is imperative that the Northern Ireland Executive put forward a robust case to the next UK Government to work with the devolved administrations to develop and finance a robust strategy to tackle the housing crisis across the United Kingdom."
Patrick Kielty Receives Honorary Degree From Ulster University
Ulster University has presented Patrick Kielty with an honorary degreee in recognition of his "outstanding contribution to the arts".
The 53-year-old Co Down broadcaster and comedian joined Class of 2024 graduates in receiving their honours and degrees.
Kielty took over as host of Irish broadcaster RTÉ's The Late Late Show last year.
Other honorary degrees were given to community activist Betty Carlisle, former president of Ireland Mary Robinson and artist Oliver Jeffers.
Ulster University vice-chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew said the university's aim is to celebrate "inspirational local people making a global impact".
The Alliance Party has condemned sectarian attacks on two homes in the Redford grove development in Antrim, with MLA John Blair stating that "there is no place for hatred or intolerance in Antrim".
It’s been reported that the two new build properties had been subject to paint damage, and that two windows had been smashed. One of the houses was occupied at the time, and the incident is being treated by PSNI as a sectarian-motivated hate crime.
Mr Blair has said: "Everyone has a right to feel safe in their home, and in the wider community. This kind of behaviour is totally unacceptable and does not in any way reflect the feelings of the wider Antrim community.
"There is no place here for hatred or intolerance of any kind, including blatant sectarian intimidation. These thugs represent the views of nobody but themselves and achieve nothing through their actions other than committing criminal damage.
"All local representatives must be unequivocal in their condemnation of this kind of behaviour, in standing together against hatred right on our doorstep, and in supporting the police in their investigations going forward.
"I would encourage anyone with any potentially relevant information relating to this incident to please contact the PSNI, or report it anonymously via Crimestoppers."
UUP's Andy Allen Welcomes Additional Housing Funding
The UUP's housing spokesperson and East Belfast MLA, Andy Allen, has welcomed the allocation of an additional £20 million through the June monitoring round for new social housing starts but emphasised that it is far from enough.
Mr Allen said: "I welcome the allocation of an additional £20 million for the delivery of social housing; however, it is nowhere near enough. Even with this additional funding, the number of new social housing starts that can be delivered with the total allocated budget will be around 600 homes. Given the growing need, this number barely scratches the surface.
"The United Kingdom is currently in the grip of a severe housing crisis, with a significant number of citizens lacking a secure home. This dire situation, marked by an alarming rise in property prices and rental costs, is forcing many into housing insecurity or even homelessness. We need to urgently reassess our response to the housing crisis in Northern Ireland. Our housing services are beyond breaking point, and without a robust plan to deliver more social and affordable homes proactively, the pressure will only increase.
"Many experiencing homelessness are being offered temporary accommodation far from their communities, severing support networks and family connections, and disrupting schooling and work. The type, availability, and location of temporary accommodation often exacerbate the challenges those already under significant stress face.
"Alongside local measures which the Department for Communities can implement to tackle homelessness and deliver an increased number of social and affordable homes, it is imperative that the Northern Ireland Executive put forward a robust case to the next UK Government to work with the devolved administrations to develop and finance a robust strategy to tackle the housing crisis across the United Kingdom."
Patrick Kielty Receives Honorary Degree From Ulster University
Ulster University has presented Patrick Kielty with an honorary degreee in recognition of his "outstanding contribution to the arts".
The 53-year-old Co Down broadcaster and comedian joined Class of 2024 graduates in receiving their honours and degrees.
Kielty took over as host of Irish broadcaster RTÉ's The Late Late Show last year.
Other honorary degrees were given to community activist Betty Carlisle, former president of Ireland Mary Robinson and artist Oliver Jeffers.
Ulster University vice-chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew said the university's aim is to celebrate "inspirational local people making a global impact".
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19 November 2024
Justice Minister Announces Additional Funding For Department
Justice Minister Naomi Long has welcomed the allocation of an additional £39.3 million to the Department of Justice following the October Monitoring Round. This funding will be used to address various pressures within the justice system, including those arising from the civil disorder during the summer.
Justice Minister Announces Additional Funding For Department
Justice Minister Naomi Long has welcomed the allocation of an additional £39.3 million to the Department of Justice following the October Monitoring Round. This funding will be used to address various pressures within the justice system, including those arising from the civil disorder during the summer.
19 May 2011
Eco Launch Marks New Term For DUP Minister
Northern Ireland's first ever heat recovering social housing scheme has been launched. The newly appointed Social Development Minister, Nelson McCausland has kick-started his new term by launching the innovative development of five houses.
Eco Launch Marks New Term For DUP Minister
Northern Ireland's first ever heat recovering social housing scheme has been launched. The newly appointed Social Development Minister, Nelson McCausland has kick-started his new term by launching the innovative development of five houses.
02 April 2012
Construction Begins On Rathlin Island Social Homes
Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland MLA today officially started construction of ten new social homes on Rathlin Island. The new homes are situated at Church Bay and are the first social homes to be built on the Island in 18 years.
Construction Begins On Rathlin Island Social Homes
Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland MLA today officially started construction of ten new social homes on Rathlin Island. The new homes are situated at Church Bay and are the first social homes to be built on the Island in 18 years.
17 May 2018
Hundreds Of New Homes To Be Developed In Co Down
Approximately 50 construction jobs are to be created as part of a £50million project to develop 900 new homes in Comber, Co Down. Northern Ireland homebuilders Hagan Homes has started construction work on the first phase of the 'Enler Village' site on the Newtownards Road, which includes the development of 17 new homes.
Hundreds Of New Homes To Be Developed In Co Down
Approximately 50 construction jobs are to be created as part of a £50million project to develop 900 new homes in Comber, Co Down. Northern Ireland homebuilders Hagan Homes has started construction work on the first phase of the 'Enler Village' site on the Newtownards Road, which includes the development of 17 new homes.
04 November 2016
Maghaberry Prison Officers Return To Work
A number of prison officers have returned to work at Maghaberry Prison, Co Antrim, after initially refusing to start work this morning, 04 November. According to the BBC, around 80 staff were involved in the industrial action. They were due to commence work between 7.30am and 8am, but held a meeting instead.
Maghaberry Prison Officers Return To Work
A number of prison officers have returned to work at Maghaberry Prison, Co Antrim, after initially refusing to start work this morning, 04 November. According to the BBC, around 80 staff were involved in the industrial action. They were due to commence work between 7.30am and 8am, but held a meeting instead.
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
