Other News In Brief

Alliance Urges Voters To Choose 'Delivery Over Drama'

Alliance Leader Naomi Long MLA has said that tomorrow's election is a chance for people in Northern Ireland to choose "delivery over drama".

She was speaking ahead of Thursday's poll, in which Alliance is standing 110 candidates across Northern Ireland. Mrs Long said it was vital for anyone frustrated by the lack of functioning institutions to make their voice heard.

"I understand many people are apathetic and frustrated when it comes to local politics. That is understandable when faced with seemingly constant deadlock caused by divisive politics at the Assembly and Executive," she said.

"That's why it is more vital than ever to come out to vote and send a message ransom politics isn't acceptable. The power is in people's hands. In 2019, the last Council Election also took place with no functioning Stormont. But voters sent a message – that they wanted and deserved functioning institutions which operate everyday. That message was heard loud and clear, with the bigger two parties restoring the institutions.

"Local government is a tier of politics which continues to operate and Alliance Councillors continue to work hard on every Council the party is represented. More Alliance Councillors and more influence means more solutions to the issues which matter to people. No drama, just delivery.

"Alliance Councillors will work for you, so if you want politics that works, on Thursday vote Alliance right across Northern Ireland."

DUP Urge Voters To 'Help Finish The Job'

Ahead of polls opening tomorrow, Thursday 18 May, DUP Leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP has urged pro-Northern Ireland voters to "help finish the job by uniting behind the DUP".

Sir Jeffrey said: "Tomorrow pro-Northern Ireland voters have a simple choice. They can back Democratic Unionist Party candidates and strengthen our position as we seek to finish the job of restoring Northern Ireland's place in the United Kingdom following the harm done by the imposition of the Protocol or unionism can divide and splinter, costing seats in our councils and helping to hand more influence to those who would further weaken the Union.

"In every area voters are uniting behind the DUP, some for the first time because they realise the stakes tomorrow. This election will be an important opportunity to determine the next four years in our 11 local councils but it will also help shape the future direction of Northern Ireland."

Calls For 'Silent Fireworks' To Protest Household Pets

Councils have been urged to use "silent fireworks" at public displays to protect household pets.

It is just one of a number of animal welfare proposals included in the party's Local Election 23 manifesto.

They also include increased park and play provision, including dog-friendly areas and outdoor gyms, and fair charges for the use of council facilities.

Alliance Castlereagh South candidate Nancy Eaton, said: "Alliance has always prioritised animal welfare and sought to tackle cruelty against animals.

"Political parties have an important role to play in protecting those who cannot speak for themselves. We have to ensure the highest possible animal welfare standards across the board, and this election is a chance for parties to show they prioritise this aim and are committed to such policies.

"In terms of Alliance, we're calling for silent firework displays, dog-friendly areas, and a zero-tolerance approach to practices such as illegal puppy breeding. People who carry out cruelty to animals are a danger to not only the animals themselves but potentially to society as a whole, and Councils have a vital role to play in putting a stop to it."