Mark Bain

Former Sinn Féin MP Francie Molloy blamed delays to the £1.7 billion A5 dual-carriageway project partly on the historic Plantation of Ulster and land ownership along the proposed route. Sinn Féin distanced itself, saying Molloy no longer represents the party, while UUP, DUP and TUV politicians condemned the remarks as sectarian and an attempt to avoid responsibility. The project has faced repeated legal setbacks, including a 2025 High Court ruling that quashed approval over climate-law and information deficiencies. The 58-mile route, widely described as Northern Ireland’s most dangerous road, remains largely single carriageway and has been linked to nearly 60 deaths since the upgrade was announced in 2007.

Gerry Kelly’s widow Helena and daughters Sarah and Claire thanked people across Northern Ireland and beyond for the overwhelming support shown after the veteran broadcaster’s death. The family shared photographs and said tributes had highlighted his kindness, humour and generosity. Kelly, who hosted The Kelly Show on UTV for 17 years, was remembered at his funeral in Ardglass by Fr Brian D’Arcy as one of Northern Ireland’s most loved broadcasters and a source of comfort during difficult times.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has warned residents in County Down to remain vigilant after reports of rogue traders targeting homeowners in the Ballyward area near Newcastle. In the incidents, individuals allegedly carried out unauthorised extra work and demanded additional payment. Police advise residents not to let unsolicited callers into their homes, make advance payments or ignore suspicions, and urge victims to report incidents to police, their banks and fraud-reporting services.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland is investigating the sudden death of Emma McClatchy, a woman in her 30s from the Bangor area, who was found at Carrickfergus marina on July 11 after travelling by sailing boat from Groomsport. The boat was located 2.5 miles off Kilroot power station in the Victoria Channel. Two men arrested on suspicion of maritime offences have been released on bail. Police are appealing for witnesses who were in the Carrickfergus and Belfast Lough area between noon and 4pm that day.

Disturbances involving large groups of young people on scrambler bikes in west Belfast led to three arrests, multiple damaged police vehicles and one injured officer. PSNI deployed targeted operations, including stingers, and seized one scrambler. Police Federation leadership and local political representatives condemned the behaviour, urging parents to take responsibility and warning of serious risks. The unrest has occurred repeatedly in recent months, with community leaders calling for stronger enforcement and more preventive measures to protect residents and prevent further escalation.

A Belfast bar, The Thirsty Goat, will close on Tuesday to allow staff to attend the funeral of colleague Raven Adams, who died after being struck by a car in north Belfast. Adams, originally from Tipperary, was killed at the scene, while her friend Ethan Dornan remains in hospital with serious injuries. A 22‑year‑old man has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and was denied bail. The funeral will take place at Dardistown Crematorium in Dublin, and a GoFundMe page has raised £10,000 to support Adams’ family.

Police arrested three people after widespread disturbances involving youths on scrambler bikes in west Belfast, where vehicles were damaged and an officer injured. Up to 100 young people gathered, throwing masonry and engaging in dangerous driving, prompting road closures and police intervention including the use of stingers. Further arrests and charges were made earlier in the week in related incidents. Community leaders and politicians warned of escalating risks and urged parents to intervene, while police pledged increased patrols and continued enforcement to address the disorder and protect local residents.

Police discovered approximately 300 cannabis plants at a property in the Ardean Manor area of Moy, leading to the arrest of a man in his 30s on multiple drug-related charges. The suspect remains in custody as the Police Service of Northern Ireland continues its investigation and urges the public to provide information through official channels or Crimestoppers.