Other News In Brief

Woman Convicted Of Benefit Fraud

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

Siobhan O'Brien claimed Income Support totalling £5,106 while failing to declare her partners pension. She was given a Conditional Discharge for two years.

Mrs O'Brien is also required to repay any outstanding money wrongfully obtained to the Department.

Armagh Leisure Centre Project To Create More Than 500 Jobs

Construction work is underway to build a new £35 million leisure centre in Craigavon, Armagh.

The project is expected to create more than 500 jobs during construction.

NI construction firm Farrans has been appointed to develop the new centre which has been scheduled to open in 2020.

The new centre will feature a 50-metre swimming pool with a moveable floor, teaching pool, fun pool and spectator gallery as well as state-of-the-art gym equipment, spin and dance studios, an extensive health and beauty suite, activity rooms, squash courts and a large sports hall.

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has announced that the former leisure facility will be demolished and replaced with a temporary space for the duration of the project. The space will be located at the western shore of the lake in the grounds of Craigavon Civic Centre, and is set to open this summer.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Gareth Wilson, said: "This is a really exciting time in the creation of this landmark leisure development, with good early progress made that will pave the way for an outstanding facility which can be enjoyed by everyone."

Alliance Disappointed Over Sunday Trading Hours Decision

Alliance Councillor Kate Nicholl has said she is deeply disappointed the opportunity to see Belfast City centre adjust Sunday trading has been turned down for a final time.

Speaking after the latest Strategic, Policy and Resource Committee meeting, Councillor Nicholl said she was "frustrated" at the decision that had the potential to transform Belfast's Sunday potential.

She added: "The consultation previously carried out pointed to the fact the majority are in favour of seeing the strict Sunday trading laws altered. But this wasn't even about changing things permanently, we were only talking about 18 Sundays a year.

"Everything pointed to this being a success for Belfast, especially in terms of the economic benefit. I can't tell you how many times I have witnessed frustrated tourists who have been met with closed signs while trying to explore our city.

"Those who voted against this, I would ask them what they are going to do to recommend Belfast to the 36,500 people from 21 cruise ships that traditionally arrive on Sunday mornings over the course of the year."