Long supports objection to KFC drive through

East Belfast Alliance MLA, Cllr Naomi Long has expressed her disgust at the recommendation of Planning Service to approve the construction of a KFC drive through restaurant at the junction of the Upper Newtownards Road and Knock Hill Park. The recommendation came despite a series of meetings which she facilitated between Planners and objectors over […]

Modern community policing for Short Strand is way forward

Pottinger Alliance Councillor Maíre Hendron has welcomed the Policing Board decision to progress with the rationalisation of the police estate, which will include the closure of Mountpottinger Police Station in East Belfast. Alliance Councillor Maíre Hendron said: “The priority use for scarce policing resources must be in front-line policing and the East Belfast District Policing […]

Economy woes underline why Executive needs green strategy – Neeson

Alliance Enterprise Spokesperson Seán Neeson MLA has said he is extremely disappointed at news that Northern Ireland was the only region of the UK where business activity fell last month. He said that this highlights the urgent need for the Stormont Executive to produce a sustainable economic recovery policy. The Ulster Bank Purchasing Managers Index […]

Ford annoyed at failure to appoint NI Sustainable Commissioner

Alliance Leader David Ford has berated the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister for their failure to appoint a Northern Ireland representative to the UK Sustainable Development Commission. Almost a year and a half has passed since Northern Ireland has had representation on the Commission and David Ford said this sends out a […]

Alliance welcomes Policing Board decision on Police Estate

Alliance Party Justice Spokesperson, Stephen Farry MLA, has welcomed the decision of the Policing Board to move ahead with the rationalisation of the police estate, but expressed disappointment that unionist politicians have played politics with the decision. Stephen Farry stated: “This was the right and responsible decision for the Policing Board to take. The priority […]

Wilson’s comments are inaccurate – Lo

Alliance South Belfast MLA Anna Lo has responded to comments by the Finance Minister Sammy Wilson that some anti racism campaigners talk up the level of racism in Northern Ireland to get funding. Anna Lo MLA said: “Few specifically anti-racism groups receive funding – most ethnic minority organisations are support agencies providing information and assistance […]

Alliance seconds proposal for Council cross party meeting with NIW on flooding

Castlereagh Central Alliance Councillor Michael Long seconded a proposal at the monthly meeting of Castlereagh Borough Council to set up a meeting with Northern Ireland Water (NIW) and Castlereagh Councillors to discuss ongoing concerns about flooding in the Borough. Cllr. Long said, “Over the past few years, there have been an ongoing series of flooding […]