Other News In Brief

Man Convicted For Benefit Fraud

A man was convicted at Belfast Magistrates Court today for claiming benefits he was not entitled to.

Karl Green (25) of Lecale Street, Belfast was given a two month prison sentence for wrongful encashment of Jobseekers Allowance totalling £184.

Mr Green is also required to repay any outstanding money he wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

New Funding For Carrickfergus Revitalisation Scheme

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has announced new funding of £150,000 for an additional Revitalisation scheme in Carrickfergus.

Announcing the new funding, the Minister said: "Today's investment of £150,000 will complement the recently completed public realm scheme in the historic town of Carrickfergus. In April I attended the official launch of the completed Public Scheme in Carrickfergus and was very impressed by the positive impact that the scheme has had upon the town centre and local businesses.

"This further investment will enhance the appearance of buildings along Lower North Street, Market Place, West Street and Castle Street in Carrickfergus town centre. These improvements will make Carrickfergus more appealing to all those and help existing businesses to improve their capacity to trade, contributing to the long term viability and prosperity of the town."

Farmer Convicted At L'Derry Court

Mr Sam Brizzel, Lisnagrot Road, Kilrea, Coleraine, was convicted at Londonderry Magistrates Court of one charge under the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 and one charge under the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Regulations (NI) 2006.

Mr Brizzel pleaded guilty and received a conditional discharge for 12 months plus £25 costs.

This case involved the transport of an animal which was not fit for transport. This cow was thin and had a chronically infected, swollen and painful right hind foot on which it was bearing minimal weight. The carcase of this animal was condemned as being unfit for human consumption.

(CD/MH)