Other News In Brief

Man Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

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

Andrzej Kobzda of Albert Mews, Lurgan claimed Jobseekers Allowance totalling £2,290 while failing to declare employment. He was given 140 hours community service.



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


Live Electricity Poles Cut Down In Co Tyrone

Live electricity poles have been cut down in Cookstown, Co Tyrone.

The incident happened in the Kildress Road area over the weekend.

NIE Networks has called on rural communities to be vigilant.

Paul Irving, NIE Networks' Security Manager, said: "These incidents are disruptive for local residents whose electricity supplies are cut off but more importantly extremely dangerous both for the perpetrators and for the local community who may unwittingly come across damaged equipment.

"We are working closely with the PSNI and our utility colleagues to try and prevent these incidents but we would also urge the local community to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity around the electricity network.

"NIE Networks will be part of the Joint Utility Group presenting evidence to the Assembly's Environment Committee next week on a proposed bill to tighten legislation for scrap metal dealers and reduce the risks of metal theft."

Belfast City Council Supports Alliance Proposal

Councillor Nuala McAllister has welcomed Belfast City Council's backing of an Alliance proposal that will see all future committee meetings audio recorded, including planning.

This is the third time Alliance has raised the issue of greater openness and transparency, the party again secured a successful outcome when the issue was put to a democratic vote.

Speaking after the DUP, UUP, PUP and SDLP voted against the move, Nuala said it was important "vital decisions" were open to public scrutiny.

She said: "While it is important all committee meetings are available for ratepayers to listen to, it is especially vital for planning decisions, which have been open to accusations around lack of transparency in the past. This decision means all committees will be recorded going forward.

"It is particularly disappointing the SDLP, who previously abstained on the issue, have now actively voted against it. I hope their representatives are able to answer people's justifiable questions about why they don't want the public to be able to hear what their councillors are up to."

(CD/JP)