Other News In Brief

Alliance Condemns Sectarian-Motivated Attack On Houses In Antrim

The Alliance Party has condemned sectarian attacks on two homes in the Redford grove development in Antrim, with MLA John Blair stating that "there is no place for hatred or intolerance in Antrim".

It’s been reported that the two new build properties had been subject to paint damage, and that two windows had been smashed. One of the houses was occupied at the time, and the incident is being treated by PSNI as a sectarian-motivated hate crime.

Mr Blair has said: "Everyone has a right to feel safe in their home, and in the wider community. This kind of behaviour is totally unacceptable and does not in any way reflect the feelings of the wider Antrim community.

"There is no place here for hatred or intolerance of any kind, including blatant sectarian intimidation. These thugs represent the views of nobody but themselves and achieve nothing through their actions other than committing criminal damage.

"All local representatives must be unequivocal in their condemnation of this kind of behaviour, in standing together against hatred right on our doorstep, and in supporting the police in their investigations going forward.

"I would encourage anyone with any potentially relevant information relating to this incident to please contact the PSNI, or report it anonymously via Crimestoppers."

UUP's Andy Allen Welcomes Additional Housing Funding

The UUP's housing spokesperson and East Belfast MLA, Andy Allen, has welcomed the allocation of an additional £20 million through the June monitoring round for new social housing starts but emphasised that it is far from enough. Mr Allen said: "I welcome the allocation of an additional £20 million for the delivery of social housing; however, it is nowhere near enough. Even with this additional funding, the number of new social housing starts that can be delivered with the total allocated budget will be around 600 homes. Given the growing need, this number barely scratches the surface.

"The United Kingdom is currently in the grip of a severe housing crisis, with a significant number of citizens lacking a secure home. This dire situation, marked by an alarming rise in property prices and rental costs, is forcing many into housing insecurity or even homelessness. We need to urgently reassess our response to the housing crisis in Northern Ireland. Our housing services are beyond breaking point, and without a robust plan to deliver more social and affordable homes proactively, the pressure will only increase.

"Many experiencing homelessness are being offered temporary accommodation far from their communities, severing support networks and family connections, and disrupting schooling and work. The type, availability, and location of temporary accommodation often exacerbate the challenges those already under significant stress face.

"Alongside local measures which the Department for Communities can implement to tackle homelessness and deliver an increased number of social and affordable homes, it is imperative that the Northern Ireland Executive put forward a robust case to the next UK Government to work with the devolved administrations to develop and finance a robust strategy to tackle the housing crisis across the United Kingdom."

Patrick Kielty Receives Honorary Degree From Ulster University

Ulster University has presented Patrick Kielty with an honorary degreee in recognition of his "outstanding contribution to the arts".

The 53-year-old Co Down broadcaster and comedian joined Class of 2024 graduates in receiving their honours and degrees.

Kielty took over as host of Irish broadcaster RTÉ's The Late Late Show last year.

Other honorary degrees were given to community activist Betty Carlisle, former president of Ireland Mary Robinson and artist Oliver Jeffers.

Ulster University vice-chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew said the university's aim is to celebrate "inspirational local people making a global impact".