Other News In Brief

Man Arrested In Holywood On Drug Charges

Police have arrested a man on a number of drug offences following a stop and search of a vehicle in Holywood.

A variety of Class A, B and C drugs, along with a large amount of cash were seized during the search which took place on Friday, December 13, in the Old Holywood Road area at 6.30pm.

Inspector McClintock said: "The driver, a man aged in his 50s, was arrested on suspicion of possession of Class A, B and C controlled drugs with intent to supply, possession of Class A, B and C controlled drugs and possession of criminal property. He was later released on bail to allow for further enquiries."

Inspector McClintock continued: "Targeting drugs supply is a priority for the Police Service. We are committed to tackling the scourge of illicit drugs, and will continue to investigate those who profit from the misery and harm they cause our community."

New Sports Programme Aims To Make A Change

A new programme delivered by the Irish Football Association Foundation could benefit more than 200 young people by using sport to create positive social change in Northern Ireland.

The Stay Onside Community Engagement Programme is funded by the Department of Justice and has received more than £58,000 over three years from the Assets Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS), which allows monies received from the payment of confiscation orders, following a conviction, to fund community projects across Northern Ireland.

Speaking at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park, Justice Minister Naomi Long said: "Sport plays a vital role in our society and our lives. Through sport, we can develop social skills, self-confidence, and improve our well-being. "That is why it is vitally important that projects such as Stay Onside Community Engagement Programme are available to young people, particularly those at risk of encountering the justice system.

"I hope those who are just starting this course find it useful in building confidence and helping them understand the dangers that they might face as, unfortunately there are paramilitaries and criminals who take advantage of young people."

The IFA Foundation works collaboratively with PSNI, Northern Ireland Prison Service, Probation Board, Youth Justice Agency and a range of non-statutory organisations to deliver the programme.

Halifax Foundation For Northern Ireland Receives Praise From Minister Lyons

The ongoing work of the Halifax Foundation for Northern Ireland has been praised at a reception event by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons.

During his speech, Minister Lyons praised the work of the Foundation and highlighted the importance of strong partnership and collective action between government, other funders, charities and voluntary and community organisations in order to meet the needs of local communities.

The event, which was held in the Long Gallery at Parliament Buildings, also profiled the work of the Foundation's supported charities, which help thousands of people in Northern Ireland by providing services such as disability support, counselling, food banks, support for the elderly, drugs and alcohol awareness, early years interventions, sports programmes and arts and community groups.

The Minister said: "It's encouraging to see such close alignment between the Halifax Foundation's strategic objectives and my department's own aim to support a sustainable, collaborative and innovative voluntary and community sector.

"The sector plays a vital role in shaping public policy, supporting service delivery and advocating for change, and I want to stress my commitment to championing and supporting the sector’s important work."