Other News In Brief

Appeal For Information Following Criminal Damage Of Dual-Language Street Sign

The PSNI have issued an appeal for information following a report of criminal damage to a dual-lingual street sign in the Radergan Road in Beragh on Thursday 15th February.

Making the appeal, Neighbourhood Inspector Beatty said: "This is just one of a number of reports that dual-language signs in the Moylagh and Radergan road areas have been damaged in the last fortnight.

"We are investigating this as a sectarian hate crime and are appealing to anyone who may have any information or anyone with CCTV or other footage that could assist with enquiries to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 795 15/02/24."

A report can also be submitted 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 www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Alliance Welcomes Progress On Strengthening Flexible Working Rights In NI

Alliance Early Years and Childcare spokesperson Kate Nicholl MLA has welcomed the positive response from the Economy Minister to her question about strengthening flexible working rights in Northern Ireland.

Speaking as the Minister signalled his intent to consider revising the current flexible working arrangements in Northern Ireland as part of a wider employment rights bill, the South Belfast MLA commented: "I am delighted that the Minister has committed to considering my proposals for strengthening the rights of employees to request flexible working. This is something I have championed for some time and am very pleased to see progress so soon after the restoration of the Executive and Assembly.

"The case for change is clear. With the lengthy processes currently involved in applying for flexible working and the potential for that application to be rejected, many people are potentially being excluded from the workforce, limiting our economic potential.

"This is a particular concern for those with childcare and other caring responsibilities, as demonstrated by UNISION's recent UK survey. It revealed that 36% of women working in public services across the UK have requested flexible working for childcare reasons, but 30% are then denied it.

"Changes to legislation to create quicker, smoother, and more employee-focused processes for requesting flexible working could enhance the inclusiveness and productivity of our economy, and give more carers and parents the opportunity to join or re-join the workforce with the flexibility that they require.

"I will continue to drive this change and look forward to scrutinising and developing the legislation when it comes before the Assembly."

O'Neill Pays Tribute To Mickey Brady As He Stands Down As MP

First Minister and Sinn Féin Vice President, Michelle O'Neill, has paid tribute to long-standing MP Mickey Brady, following the announcement that he will not seek re-selection in the upcoming Westminster election.

Michelle O’Neill MLA said: "For over forty years, Mickey Brady has been to the fore of giving a voice to people and working to transform communities, and played a key role in assisting people with welfare and housing advice.

"First elected to the Assembly in 2007, Mickey has spent his life fighting for a fair and equal society, and was steadfast in his support for the Good Friday Agreement and delivering real change.

"He was elected to Westminster as MP for Newry and Armagh on three terms and has worked hard and with great determination, both locally and abroad, to promote the continued peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland and to consolidate the growth of Sinn Féin.

"I want to thank Mickey for his lifelong contribution, for a life activism, friendship and for his warmth and kindness and I wish him and his family all the very best for the future.

"Although stepping down from elected politics, I have no doubt Mickey will continue to champion the people of Newry and Armagh, while enjoying much-deserved downtime. Ádh mór, Mickey."