Other News In Brief

Man Released On Bail After Serious Dunmurry Collision

A man has been released on bail following a collision in Dunmurry, when a pensioner in his 80's and a child in a pushchair were hit by a car.

The incident happened on the Upper Lisburn Road shortly before 3.50pm on Sunday.

The elderly man was seriously injured, while the four-year-old boy sustained minor injuries. Both were taken to hospital.

Police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.

PSNI Inspector Eastwood said: "A 37-year-old man who assisted police has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

"We would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have dash-cam footage available, to contact police on 101."

Coleraine Rugby Club Fined £5k For Abuse Of Female Referee

A Northern Ireland Rugby club has been fined £5,000 over the abuse of a female referee.

The woman was subjected to sexist verbal abuse from the touchline during a game last March at Coleraine Rugby Club.

The Ulster Society of Rugby Football Referees refused to officiate home games at the venue after the incident, and rugby authorities carried out two investigations.

A spokesperson for the sporting organisation said: "Coleraine Rugby Club is pleased that there has been a resolution to the long-running dispute involving rugby's Ulster Branch, the Referees Society and the club.

"We are now looking forward to giving a warm welcome to all referees and teams visiting for matches this week and in the future."

The Ulster Branch said the matter is now closed, and that it plans to work on promoting respect for referees.

The Ulster Society of Rugby Football Referees has agreed to resume duties at Coleraine RFC. It said: "Our interest is the protection of our volunteer members and we are assured by the branch that they are actively reviewing measures to ensure their future wellbeing."

Lifetime Animal Ban For Antrim Farmer Over Pigs' Suffering

A Country Antrim farmer has been banned from keeping animals for life over the suffering of pigs in his care.

Michael Agnew from Portglenone escaped jail after admitting two charges of failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to female pigs, which had to be put down to end their pain.

The 47-year-old is now disqualified from owning, keeping or in any way controlling or influencing the way in which animals are kept for the rest of his life.

The Ballynease Road farmer was also handed an 18-month suspended prison sentence.

A DAERA spokesperson said: "This case arose, when very serious animal welfare issues were discovered during ongoing monitoring of welfare standards on the defendant's premises.

"Two sows had to be euthanised by a veterinary surgeon to prevent them suffering any further."



(JG)