Other News In Brief

Sinn Féin Welcome Voluntary Sector Funding

Sinn Féin MLA Liz Kimmins has welcomed the announcement of a £3.3m funding package to assist the voluntary, community and social economy sectors to deal with COVID-19. 

Kimmins said: "I welcome today's announcement of £3.3 million from Communities Minister Carál Ní Chuilín to help support the community, voluntary and social economy sectors through this pandemic.

"This will help many groups in the sector reopen safely in order to deliver important services to the community. 

"It will also help groups develop a better online and digital service, which will help those who have been isolated because of the pandemic. 

"The community and voluntary sector, together with the social economy sector, does great work in our communities and it is vital they are receiving this financial support from the minister."

Alliance Welcome Belfast's First Clean Air Strategy

NI's first clean air strategy has been welcomed by Alliance Environment spokesperson John Blair.

Blair, a member of the APG on Lung Health at Stormont, said: "This announcement fulfils a significant commitment from the New Decade New Approach and I welcome the announcement of the Clean Air Strategy Discussion.

"This document is long overdue as air pollution levels in Northern Ireland are deeply concerning. I encourage stakeholders to respond to the document and help to inform future policy direction on how to improve Northern Ireland's air quality.

"I hope that this announcement will establish a framework for air quality improvement to protect people's health and the environment across Northern Ireland. As air pollution continues to be hidden killer, I look forward to working with the Department to reduce health issues which arise as a result of the quality of the air we breathe."

Work To Begin On Clady Flood Alleviation Scheme

Work is due to start on a major flood alleviation scheme in Clady, the Department for Infrastructure has announced.

The £300,000 scheme on the Donnygowen Burn will replace the temporary flood defence with a permanent structure which consists of a new 65 metre piled flood wall and widening of the existing road bridge by 2 metres.

Infrastructure Minister, Nichola Mallon said: "I have seen the devastation flooding can cause homes and communities and the genuine concern this can cause each time bad weather is forecast. Once complete, this scheme will significantly reduce the risk of flooding to eight properties in the village. I hope that this brings these homeowners some comfort and reassurance."

Once completed this will significantly reduce the risk of flooding to eight properties in the village.