Other News In Brief

£3.3m To Be Invested In Genomics Medicine Centre

A total of £3.3million has been announced to create a Northern Ireland Genomics Medicine Centre (NIGMC).

The NIGMC will provide rare disease patients with a much earlier and more accurate diagnosis.

It is estimated that one in 17 people are born with or develop a rare disease during their lifetime. At least 80% of rare diseases have an identified genetic component, with 50% of new cases of rare diseases being identified in children. The investment will lessen the uncertainty and anxiety associated with not having a diagnosis for patients and their families, enabling the faster provision of appropriate treatment and care when a diagnosis is made.

A2 Tunnel Crossing Preparation To Begin

NI Water is expected to prepare the tunnel crossing of the A2 in County Antrim this weekend, 30 October to the 02 November.

In agreement with Transport NI the work will involve the excavation of a trial hole to locate the position of existing services located within the hard shoulder. A lane closure will be put in place on the Bangor bound side of the A2 carriageway at Holywood.

The lane closure will be from 7pm on Friday to 4pm on Monday.

Smyth To Replace Lyons As DUP Cllr For Coast Road Area

Angela Smyth has replaced Gordon Lyons as DUP Councillor for the Coast Road area on Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.

Angela Smyth said: "I am absolutely delighted to join Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. For many years I have been working closely alongside Sammy Wilson MP to deliver on local issues for people, and I believe this experience will help me fulfil my role as an Elected Member.

"I was delighted when the DUP selected me to replace Gordon Lyons, who has now joined the Assembly as an MLA and I wish Gordon every success in his new role.

"I am honoured to serve the people of the Coast Road and the wider Mid and East Antrim Borough and I am already beginning to move forward with some of the local issues on behalf of the people."

(CD)