Other News In Brief

More And Better Homes For The Shankill

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland stops in on Shankill residents to see progress on a £6million investment to improve homes in the area. 
A total of 135 houses owned by Harmony Homes at Leopold, Columbia and Rosebank Streets are included in the scheme. Sixteen of the oldest properties in Leopold Street are being demolished and will be replaced with ten new three bedroom houses. The others will undergo long awaited major refurbishment to modern, energy efficient standards. Elements will include upgraded electrics and heating, PVC double glazing, fascia and rainwater goods, new front and back doors, new kitchens and upgraded insulation. A number of properties will also be converted and enlarged to provide bigger family accommodation.

Minister McCausland said: “For years the Shankill suffered from under investment and sub standard housing, but not anymore. The three streets are but one example where the community had to put up with inadequate housing for far too long and I wanted to put that right.”

“I am delighted that my department, in partnership with Harmony Homes and local people, has been able to bring this major investment to fruition. We will now see new housing provided and significant numbers upgraded to modern standards to give the area a long overdue new lease of life.”

McKevitt Hails Down’s Camogie Champions

SDLP South Down MLA Karen McKevitt congratulated the county camogie Minor team for its All-Ireland victory over Kerry.

She said: “It’s great to see these young girls going out to play at this level and coming home victorious. A win like this is bound to lift camogie and Gaelic sports in general across the county which can only be good for everyone. They have shown the way – we have every faith that our senior footballers can follow their path soon.”

Ferris Calls On Government To Legislate On Debt Collection

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Martin Ferris TD has called on the government to introduce legislation to regulate debt collection.

Deputy Ferris was responding to replies from Ministers Rabbitte and Noonan in relation to questions regarding complaints about Arvato Finance which is contracted to collect debts owed to Bord Gáis.

He said: “I have raised this issue in the light of several complaints I have received regarding domestic and commercial customers who feel that they have been unfairly treated by the company concerned.

“It is also my understanding that Arvato has not signed up to the Irish code of practice but is signed up to the British code. And, contrary to what Minister Rabbitte has said, the Irish code of practice is not based on the British code.

“There is therefore an urgent need for domestic legislation on the whole area of debt collection particularly at the current juncture when so many households and businesses find themselves in debt."