Other News In Brief

Greens Welcome Launch Of Night Safe Charter

The Green Party has welcomed the launch of the Night Safe Charter by Hospitality Ulster and White Ribbon NI.

Representative for Holywood and Clandeboye, Cllr Lauren Kendall, said: "I am heartened to see the roll out of the Women's Night Safe Charter by Hospitality Ulster and White Ribbon NI. It represents one more important step towards valuing and protecting all women and girls in our community.

"We have seen horrific attacks on women and girls in Northern Ireland. The Women's Night Safety Charter represents a further move away from the culture of victim blaming to victim believing, one of collective responsibility for safety. I have no doubt hospitality venues and businesses in Northern Ireland will step up and sign up. We have seen good uptake and roll out of other awareness raising initiatives such as 'Ask for Angela' across venues which is also welcome.

"However, if we are serious about protecting women and girls, we need a working government to ensure the necessary funds are provided to fully implement the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy, and to support the vital work of organisations in our community and voluntary sector who tirelessly protect and advocate for women on the ground every single day.

"I urge anyone that has been a victim of crime or abuse or if you are worried about someone, please report to PSNI or support organisation Nexus, Rape Crisis NI, Victim Support NI, Womens Aid, or call the 24 hour domestic and sexual abuse helpline on 0808 802 1414."

Two Arrested In Downpatrick Aggravated Burglary

Two men have been arrested in connection with the aggravated burglary of a take-away premises in Downpatrick.

Shortly before 11.10pm on Wednesday, 3rd January police received a report that two men, one of whom was armed with a knife, had entered premises in the Church Street area, and threatened staff.

Officers attended and two men, aged in their 30s, were subsequently arrested on suspicion of a number of related offences. They remain in custody at this time, assisting police with enquiries.

Detective Sergeant Lewis said: "We are keen to hear from anyone who was in the Church Street area around 11pm, and noticed anything suspicious or has CCTV or dash-cam footage, to make contact with police on 101, quoting reference 1904 03/01/24.

Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Weev Install Enniskillen's First Rapid EV Charger

Weev, NI's leading electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure company, has unveiled Enniskillen's first rapid EV charger.

The 120DC rapid charger at Belmore Court & Motel replaces the existing 24DC charger on the site, previously installed by Weev in 2022, and has been introduced due to increased demand from residents and visitors in the popular Fermanagh destination.

The upgrade marks a significant step in the provision of EV solutions within the region, offering customers the opportunity to recharge within a matter of minutes.

Reflecting on the upgrade Chris Hanna, Sales Manager at Weev said: "We are delighted to see the increased demand for EV charging solutions in the area and thrilled that we can respond to it by upgrading the charging hub at Belmore Court & Motel.

"The upgrade from a 24DC charger to a 120DC charger is a game-changer for the area, providing a faster and more convenient charging experience for EV users.

"Belmore Court & Motel is strategically located not only to cater to residents but also to travellers passing through the region or visiting the motel for a staycation.

"This enhancement aligns with Weev's commitment to expanding the accessibility of EV charging solutions across the island of Ireland, not only meeting the current demand but also positioning the area for future growth in adoption of electric vehicles."