UUP Welcomes New Focus On Waiting Lists

Professor Mark Taylor has been appointed as Northern Ireland's first Regional Clinical Director for Elective Care, with a focus on tackling the region's extensive health waiting lists.

Ulster Unionist Health Spokesperson Alan Chambers welcomed the decision by Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, noting that too many people have waited too long for diagnosis or treatment. Professor Taylor's role will be critical in delivering improvements, with up to £215 million earmarked for elective care initiatives this financial year. Chambers described Professor Taylor as a "well-respected and experienced health leader," expressing confidence that many patients will benefit from his new role.

Police Appeal Following Burglary in Comber

Detectives are appealing for information and witnesses after a burglary in the Carnesure area of the Killinchy Road, Comber, where cash and bank cards were stolen. Police received a report that a house was entered between 6pm on Thursday, 24 July, and 5am on Friday, 25 July. A sum of cash and three bank cards were taken from a purse, with enquiries revealing that cash was subsequently withdrawn from a nearby ATM using the stolen cards. Officers are keen to hear from anyone who noticed suspicious activity in the area during that timeframe, and particularly anyone with dash-cam, CCTV, or mobile footage.

Please call 101, quoting reference number 974 25/07/25, or submit a report online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Sinn Féin MP Calls For Action On Illegal Bonfires

North Belfast Sinn Féin MP John Finucane has called for urgent political action to tackle illegal and unregulated bonfires, stating that "self-regulation has failed."

Following recent "unacceptable and unlawful incidents," Mr Finucane highlighted concerns over bonfires built on contaminated land, dangerously close to hospitals, and used for racist and sectarian displays. He emphasised that these bonfires threaten public safety, pollute the environment, and spread hate, asserting that "political representatives cannot remain silent or passive" and action is needed to end the cycle of illegality and sectarianism.