Other News In Brief

Three People Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

Three people have been convicted for claiming benefits they were not entitled to at Belfast Magistrates' Court.

Kieran Captain claimed Jobseeker's Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £10,937 while failing to declare employment. He was given 180 hours community service.

Paul Hill claimed Income Support and Housing Benefit totalling £8,363 while failing to declare employment. He was given 120 hours community service.

Robert Moore claimed Jobseeker’s Allowance and Housing Benefit totalling £1,626 while failing to declare employment. He was fined £300.

All are also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department for Communities.

Concerns Raised Over Road Safety In Co Antrim

Serious concerns have been raised over road safety in Glenavy, Co Antrim.

Sinn Fein MLA Declan Kearney questioned the Infrastructure Minister Chris Hazzard at a meeting with the Glenavy Residents Association.

Mr Hazzard said urgent remedial repair works are needed on the Main Street and adjoining Chapel and Glen Roads.

He said: "Concerns have also been raised regarding the volume of traffic and the safety of the Chapel and Glen Roads which lead to the local church, school, community hall and sports clubs & facilities.

"“I hope that by bringing these concerns to the Minister's attention and asking for road safety surveys to be undertaken that this will begin a process of urgent remedial works.

"I will be meeting with the Minister in the coming weeks to further address these concerns and take my representations forward."

Petition Presented To Increase Education Provision At Killard House School

Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has presented a petition to increase education provision at Killard House School at the Assembly.

The petition calls on the Education Minister to provide post 16 education provision for young adults with learning difficulties at the school - adding a sixth form centre allows pupils the opportunity to complete their education.

She said: "I'm delighted to present this petition today on behalf of the parents and pupils at Killard House School - the next step in securing this much needed provision for the area.

"I'm equally delighted to welcomed Head Girl Erin and Head Boy Joseph, who very much want to go to a school where they will have provision right through to age 19 and I pay tribute to the passion and patient determination all have shown throughout this process.

"At the age of 15 or 16, vulnerable children have no choice but to leave their protected school environment, at far too young an age. The result is some are less likely to flourish and are placed under the unnecessary stress if having to deal with the adult world.

"It's already been proven that post 16 provision at similar schools is working - with children provided with appropriate classes and courses suited to meet their needs and giving the same opportunities to stay in education as long as their peers who do not have a disability."

(CD)