23 January 2013 Last updated at 06:27 ET

Machine breakdown leads to gritting delays on snow-hit NI roads

There were long tailbacks heading into Castlereagh at rush hour on Wednesday

A breakdown in machinery caused a delay in salting one of the areas that was worst hit by snow and ice in Northern Ireland.

The Department of Regional Development said gritting was delayed in Lagmore, Carryduff, Ballynahinch and Saintfield.

It got under way at 06:00 GMT and was completed at 08:00 GMT on Wednesday.

At one point the Belfast Road at Saintfield was closed following an accident, causing long tailbacks between Ballygowan and Belfast.

A Met Office yellow warning of ice was in place until 11:00 GMT on Wednesday.

There is also the possibility of some outbreaks of snow and sleet and a few freezing fog patches.

The Spelga Dam Mountain Road in Kilkeel is currently closed.

Schools closed in Northern Ireland on Wednesday:

• Grange Primary School, Kilkeel
• Ballymacward Primary School & Pre-School Playgroup, Lisburn
• St Caolan's Primary School, Darragh Cross
• The Good Shepherd Primary and Nursery School, Poleglass/Dunmurry
• Malone College, Belfast
• Derryboy Primary School, Crossgar