Other News In Brief

Man Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

A man has been convicted for claiming benefits he was not entitled to at Armagh Magistrates' Court.

Patrick Madden, 48, claimed Jobseekers Allowance totalling £4,456 while failing to declare employment. He was given a three month prison sentence suspended for two years, fined £350 and ordered to pay an offenders levy of £25.

He is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Social Security Agency.

Saliis To Install Solar PV Systems

NI firm Saliis Ltd has scooped a contract to install solar photo voltaic (PV) systems in 1,000 Housing Executive homes across the province.

The project is worth up to £5 million to the Northern Ireland economy and is based on a 'rent a roof' model, which means tenants could save up to £200 per year on their energy bills.

Saliis will pay for the installation and maintenance of the solar PV panels meanwhile tenants will get free electricity and the Housing Executive receives an annual fee. The installer Saliis recoups its investment through the Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROCs) and energy export tariff.

Clark Bailie, the Housing Executive’s Chief Executive, explained: "Fuel poverty remains a major issue for many of our tenants. One of the main causes is fluctuating fuel prices coupled with low household income. We are delighted this pilot scheme has been initiated as it will mean those tenants living at the 1,000 homes selected can save up to £200 annually through their electricity bills.

Alliance Condemns Attack On War Memorial

Alliance Councillor Gavin Walker has condemned an attack on a war memorial in Groomsport, Bangor, earlier this week.

Paint was thrown over the memorial on Thursday.

Councillor Gavin Walker said: "It is distressing for the residents of Groomsport to have our War Memorial defaced in such an abhorrent way - and especially on the eve of the remembrance of the sacrifices of the Battle of Britain.

"I understand the PSNI has already made an arrest and we are all grateful for their speedy response.

"But for those of us who live in the village - many of whom have lost family members to war - the stain on the Memorial is both hurtful and worrisome. We hope the Council will move quickly to remove the paint and that this thoughtless vandalism will never be repeated."

(CD/MH)