Other News In Brief

SDLP Calls For An End To Strabane Disruption

SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan has called for an end to disruption in the Strabane area after a number of security alerts.

Mr McCrossan said people in the area were fed up of their lives being disrupted by the incidents.

It follows another security alert in the Innisfree Gardens on Monday evening, with some residents evacuated from their homes.

West Tyrone MLA Mr McCrossan said: "People in the Strabane area have experienced a very difficult few days and they want to see an end to their lives being disrupted. Children have missed school, elderly people have been forced out of their homes on cold nights and people are sick and tired of incidents like this on their doorstep.

"The incident on Friday has caused a huge amount of worry, frustration and anger, nobody in this area supports that kind of activity and cannot understand incidents like this happening repeatedly in their community.

"I would urge anyone involved in the incidents over the last few days to cease these activities at once and get off the backs of local people. I would also ask police to work constructively with the local community to keep disruption to a minimum, while ensuring everyone is kept safe and apprehending those behind these attacks."

Alliance Welcomes Launch Of Fly Atlantic Transatlantic Flights

Alliance have welcomed the news that new airline Fly Atlantic will launch new transatlantic flights from Belfast International Airport.

The airline plans to operate the route from summer 2024, flying to to the US and Canada, as well as over 30 other destinations once complete.

Alliance South Antrim MLA John Blair, said: "After an incredibly challenging number of years for the airport, partners, the local community and the entire aviation industry, I am delighted to welcome Fly Atlantic to their new hub in my constituency, which will facilitate 50 people at the airport and hundreds of new jobs otherwise.

"Air travel remains a contributor to carbon emissions and we must aim to make it more sustainable. It is reassuring Belfast International Airport has obtained a carbon reduction recognition through Airport Credit Accreditation programme. It is my hope the airport and the sector can be supported to continue this progress.

"As part of a small island, we will continue to rely on flights much more than Great Britain and the rest of Europe. We must ensure the UK Government acts robustly to uphold connectivity for outlying parts of the UK, recognising our unique position in Northern Ireland, whilst taking steps to reduce the carbon footprint of the sector.

"We must promote and encourage the innovation and development of green aviation technologies and an associated manufacturing capacity."

Robinson Welcomes Demolition Of Kincora Boys Home

DUP's East Belfast MP, Gavin Robinson, has welcomed the new that the demolition of the former Kincora Boys Home is set to commence on Wednesday.

Mr Robinson said: "Kincora and the horrors that occurred within have stained our local community for decades. Victims see the building as a visual reminder of their experience, often on a daily basis.

"I have worked over many years to press for demolition of this site and challenged the Council when they sought to retain this memorial to misery. I am thankful that finally, it will be razed to the ground."