Other News In Brief

Newry, Mourne and Down Commits To Road Safety Pledge

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has joined a growing list of organisations who has committed to road safety by pledging to 'Share the Road to Zero' and they are encouraging others to do the same.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Valerie Harte, said: "Too many people are sadly killed or seriously injured on our roads, which impacts far and wide. It is now time for us all to take stock of our responsibilities as road users, think about the consequences of our actions, and be mindful of other road users.

"Today I am signing the pledge on behalf of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, committing to act in the safest possible way on our roads every day, and I encourage others, both organisations and individuals, to do the same."

Julie Thompson, Deputy Secretary in the Department for Infrastructure, said: "I welcome this opportunity to work in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down Council on this very important community initiative. I thank them for signing the 'Share the Road to Zero' pledge, and I hope this encourages others to do the same. The evidence shows that more than 95% of road traffic collisions where someone is killed or seriously injured are due to human error. This means, deaths and serious injuries on our roads are not an inevitable consequence of using the roads.

"The majority of collisions can be avoided, resulting in fewer casualties if we make the right choices when using the roads. If we as road users pay attention and stay focused, drive at the appropriate speed for the road or the conditions, never drink alcohol or take drugs before driving and always wear a seatbelt, lives will be saved. Together we can make a difference and move towards zero deaths on our roads by taking the Road Safety Pledge."

Please pledge to 'Share the Road to Zero' at: sharetheroadtozero.com

Sinn Féin Remain Opposed Household Domestic Charges

Sinn Féin remain opposed to the introduction of household domestic charges, MLA Conor Murphy has said.

The party's economy spokesperson said: "Sinn Féin remains opposed to domestic water charges.

"The British Secretary of State has forced a public consultation on water charges.

"This will only add to the cost of living and the cost of doing business.

"I stopped the imposition of water charges when I was Regional Development minister with the full support of Executive colleagues.

"Sinn Féin remain opposed to household domestic charges. We already pay for water through our rates.

"It is essential that the Executive is restored so that local elected representatives can protect households from this Tory policy."

Appeal Following Two-Vehicle Collision In Kilkeel

The PSNI have issued an appeal for information following a two-vehicle road traffic collision on the Head Road, Kilkeel.

Making the appeal, Inspector Gibson said: "A report was received shortly before 4.40pm on Saturday afternoon, 9th December of a collision involving a quad and Nissan Micra.

"Officers attended, alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.

"The driver of the quad was taken to hospital for treatment to their injuries and the passenger of the quad also required hospital treatment. The injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

"Meanwhile, the driver of the car suffered minor injuries as a result of the collision.

"The road was closed for a time to facilitate emergency services. However, it has since fully reopened to traffic.

"Our investigation is underway and anyone with information about what happened, or who has dash-cam or mobile phone footage can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1170 09/12/23."