Other News In Brief

Ballymoney Library Reopens After Major Refurbishment

A landmark day for the community of Ballymoney saw the official reopening of their newly refurbished library. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons and Economy Minister Conor Murphy were on hand to celebrate the completion of the significant project.

The library, which has been a cornerstone of the Ballymoney community since 1970, has undergone a major transformation. The refurbishment has focused on sustainability and energy efficiency, ensuring the library remains a modern and welcoming space for years to come.

Following a tour of the new facility, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said: "It is great to see the re-opening of the library which provides a full range of library services, as well as offering local people a much needed, accessible and inviting shared space.

"Libraries are integral to the local community and I'm delighted to see that Ballymoney Library has something for everyone, from IT support to Health and Wellbeing classes. I am particularly pleased that the library has extended the Class Visits programme to encourage more school pupils to visit and enjoy everything Ballymoney Library has to offer.

"I am confident that the revitalised library will continue to play an important role in Ballymoney, attracting new users of all ages."

New Smart Electricity Meters Consultation Announced

A new consultation on the design plan for the roll-out of smart electricity meters, has been announced by Economy Minister Conor Murphy.

Smart electricity meters allow households and businesses to monitor and control their energy use. The Department is seeking to determine views on how the roll-out should be managed to ensure it is consumer-focused, and to seek views on which organisations are best placed to lead the roll-out of smart meters.

Minister Murphy said: "Smart meters give consumers better control of their electricity use by providing them with real time information. This allows them to make informed decisions about how and when they use electricity. Smart meters also eliminate the need for energy companies to estimate bills and they allow the network to be managed more efficiently which reduces costs and lowers carbon emissions. "My Department is committed to completing the design plan for the roll-out of smart meters with the principle that consumers must be front and centre of its design, and they must be supported throughout its delivery. Creating a digitalised energy system is a key objective of the NI Energy Strategy and will play a central role in delivering a just and sustainable energy transition."

In conclusion, the Minister said: "Delivery of the smart meters system will not only reduce our carbon emissions but has the potential to boost our green economy by creating good, highly skilled jobs across the region. I would encourage all consumers, and those interested in the energy sector to have their say. It's vital we hear from all interested parties to ensure the design plan is robust and meets the demands of consumers."

Alliance Welcomes Approval Of A5 Road Upgrade Project

The Alliance Party has welcomed the announcement that the Executive has approved the A5 road upgrade project.

The party's Infrastructure spokesperson Peter McReynolds, said: "Every single life lost on our roads is a tragedy. With the obscene and unacceptable level of loss we've witnessed on the A5 in particular, this announcement can't come a minute too soon.

"It's incredibly welcome that progress will finally be made in upgrading the A5. I've been working closely with Road Safe NI on the issue, and I hope to discuss the specifics of this further at the first ever meeting of the All-Party Group on Road Safety this Friday.

"Road safety is an issue that concerns every single one of us. What we now need to do is work together as an Assembly and Executive to ensure the works start and finish promptly in an effort to improve our road infrastructure, reduce collisions, and ultimately, save lives."

Omagh Councillor Stephen Donnelly, added: "After having witnessed tragedy after tragedy rock our community, and seen the impact felt by family after family left bereaved as a result of road safety issues on the A5, this announcement couldn't come soon enough.

"Progress has been needed for a long time now, and this represents taking the first crucial step towards preventing further injury and loss of life on our roads.

"My thoughts today are with every family personally impacted, and with local campaigners who have worked tirelessly to keep the A5 on the agenda. This development is testament to their hard work and dedication."