Far-reaching implication of thefts

Ulster Unionist deputy leader Danny Kennedy, Assembly member for Newry and Armagh, has criticised those responsible for equipment thefts at constructions sites, saying that "everyone loses out through the selfishness of a few".

"The latest incident at a site at the Tandragee Road junction saw equipment stolen which amounts to several hundreds of thousands of pounds. Not only does this have an impact on businesses providing local employment, but also on the progress of construction that benefits us all long-term.

"Having been informed by the company involved, Lagan Ferrovial, that this is just the latest in a series of break-ins, I am extremely disappointed that people are being so short-sighted.

"The added costs and time wasted are an unfair imposition on the contractors, and indeed on the honest tax payer.

"This is simply not good enough, and I would urge anyone with information to come forward to the police.

"In times like these we need to be pulling together as a community, not turning to criminal opportunism."