Other News In Brief

UVF Facades 'Attempt To Intimidate Local Residents'

The erection of UVF facades on a building is "simply an attempt to intimidate local residents", Alliance Lurgan Councillor Peter Lavery has said.

The signs, from the Mid-Ulster UVF and associated other paramilitaries, replaced facades of Edward Carson and the Somme among other historical events on the side of the Housing Executive property in Pollock Drive in Lurgan, close to a community centre.

Councillor Lavery said it was a sinister move by local paramilitaries and has now complained to the authorities.

Mr Lavery said: "This is simply an attempt by the UVF to intimidate the local community in Mourneview. Crime gangs like them have no place in today's society and should disband immediately.

"The community here wants to be left in peace so they can get on with their lives. This sinister attempt to try to bring fear into the area will not deter people from continuing to progress towards a more positive future.

"I have contacted the police about this incident and they are currently investigating. I would urge anyone with further information to contact the PSNI immediately. I have also requested the Housing Executive remove these facades from their property as soon as possible so it does not become a focal point to project fear into the community."

Armagh Carriageway Resurfacing Scheme Set To Begin

The Department for Infrastructure has announced a £400,000 carriageway resurfacing scheme in Charlemont, Armagh to begin on 26 July 2021.

The improvement work will extend approximately 800 metres from the Blackwater River bridge to its junction with Old Bog Road, 175 metres along Collegelands Road from its junction with the A29 Main Street and all of Church View estate.

Making the announcement, Minister Nicola Mallon said: "This significant investment will greatly improve the strength and surface quality of this section of the road network in to the benefit of all who use it. I would like to thank local residents and businesses in Charlemont in advance for their cooperation and ask that they comply with all temporary traffic restrictions while these much needed works are completed."

Sinn Féin's Declan Kearney Calls For Full Investigation Into Alleged Sectarian Hate Crime At Antrim Bonfire

Sinn Féin MLA Declan Kearney has called on the PSNI to investigate reports that an effigy of him was burnt on an illegal bonfire in Antrim, alongside election posters and Irish national flags.

Describing the act as a sectarian hate crime, the South Antrim MLA said: "Our society needs to adopt a zero tolerance against such displays of sectarian hate and bigotry. All bonfires should be subject to proper legal regulation and enforcement; based upon existing environmental legislation; permission and approval; respect for public and private property; public health considerations; and community safety.

"If bonfires are to be used in a proportionate way as a form of legal, legitimate, cultural celebration, they must be respectful and compliant with good relations policy, and command the support of the neighbourhoods in which they are built.

"Any deviation from legally established standards should be subject to rigorous statutory enforcement. All relevant statutory bodies and government departments must meet their legal duties to ensure that this happens.

"I now expect the PSNI to carry out a full and robust investigation into the Mallusk Gardens bonfire on the Steeple estate, with a view to making arrests and mounting successful prosecutions for these hate crimes and other criminal offences."