Other News In Brief

Suspicious Object Declared 'Crude But Viable Device'

An investigation has been launched following a security alert in Maghera, County L'Derry.

Emergency services responded to reports of a "suspicious object" on Tirkane Road at around 04.50 am this morning.

Following an examination by Ammunition Technical Officers the object was declared a "crude but viable device".

A number of residents were evacuated from their homes during the operation but were allowed to return this morning.

The object has been removed for further forensic examination.

Anyone with information about the incident, or anyone who may have witnessed anything suspicious, to contact them.

SDLP Welcomes Changes To Blood Donation Rules

Eligible gay and bisexual mean are being encouraged to consider donating blood following the introduction of rule changes in NI.

SDLP Health Spokesperson Cara Hunter made the call after a rule change came into effect on Monday permitting men who have been in a same-sex relationship with one partner for more than three months to give blood.

Previously, men who had been in a same-sex relationship had to wait for a year after their last sexual activity before donating blood

Ms Hunter said the rule change was overdue, an important step towards equality for the LGBT+ community and would also benefit the health service.

The East Derry MLA said: "It is extremely welcome that this rule change has now taken effect in the North, after being in place in other parts of the UK from June. While the move was initially delayed due to staffing and training issues I am glad these have now been resolved.

"Giving blood is hugely important – it saves lives. I would encourage everyone to consider becoming a blood donor, it is quick and easy and really can make a big difference to someone who needs it. Our health service regularly experiences shortages of blood, particularly rare blood types and there is a moral responsibility on all of us who can to donate.

"This rule change is also an important step for equality for the LGBT+ community. Anything that results in a fairer and more equal society, where everyone is treated the same is positive for us all."

DUP Call On Govt To Keep UC Uplift

The DUP has called on the UK government to maintain the £20 per week uplift in Universal Credit, citing the ongoing financial pressures facing many constituents because of the pandemic.

DUP MP for Upper Bann Carla Lockhart has written to the Chancellor expressing her support for the uplift, but the response received indicated the Government would be removing the additional payment.

Carla Lockhart said: "The stark reality is that this £20 per week uplift has been a lifeline for many families across Northern Ireland.

"Faced with the unprecedented challenges posed by the pandemic, the decision by the Government to increase the level of payment was welcome as many families faced a drop in household income, while bills and living costs needed met.

"However, while this move was always intended to be temporary, the impact of the pandemic remains. Indeed, it is becoming more acute with the phasing out of furlough. Furthermore, the price of food is rising, and it is widely expected that we will, like in GB, see energy price rises over the coming months. This will plunge more families into financial crisis.

"This enhanced safety net of Universal Credit simply cannot be cut faced with the current and impending pressures on household budgets.

"In my letter to the Chancellor, I made clear that my constituents in receipt of this benefit need it maintained at current levels and that the cut planned for the end of September must be shelved. Sadly, the response gives no indication that he is willing to reconsider his intention to cut the payment. This is deeply regrettable and will be a matter of great concern to local families as they plan their budgets for the months ahead.

"I will continue to make the case for the uplift to be kept, alongside MPs of like mind at Westminster and a whole range of charities who are lobbying on this matter. It is not too late for the Government to act with compassion and understanding of the pressures facing low-income households. I hope they can see fit to do the right thing."