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02/03/2022
Other News In Brief
SDLP Backs Call For Ukraine To Join EU
The SDLP has backed calls for a fast-track process for the accession of Ukraine to membership of the European Union.
Party Leader Colum Eastwood gave his support following a formal application by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to join the EU and confirmation from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that she believes that Ukraine should join.
Colum Eastwood MP has written to the President of the Party of European Socialists today seeking to build a consensus among leaders about Ukrainian accession.
Mr Eastwood said: "This is the greatest challenge to European solidarity since the end of the second world war. It is my firm view that following the request of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for accession to the European Union, that leaders across our continent should respond with an accelerated process which shows that our solidarity goes beyond warm words at a moment of severe threat to the life of the Ukrainian nation.
"Nobel Laureate John Hume described the European Union as 'the best example in the history of the world of conflict resolution' – it is time Europe exercised it's role as an agent for peace once more. We must show that the political institutions forged in the fire of a terrible conflict and which are based on respect for difference and diversity are capable of extinguishing the threat of war on our continent."
Alliance Calls For Urgent Action On Cost Of Living Crises
The Assembly and Westminster must take urgent action to support households through the cost of living crisis, Alliance MLA Andrew Muir has said.
North Down MLA Mr Muir was speaking as Alliance launched a series of proposals aimed at addressing the cost of living crisis. It includes a home heating support grant voucher scheme to supplement the winter fuel payment, a child payment scheme and more energy efficiency for social housing, as well as abolishing the planned hike in national insurance and a universal credit update in line with the true rate of inflation.
He said: "We need urgent action to support our most vulnerable households, both from the Assembly and UK Government, to protect people and prevent lasting social and economic damage to our society. Alongside other policy interventions, they would not only address rising energy costs but also food, transport and housing.
"Alliance's plan for vulnerable families is realistic and achievable. It will ensure we protect our most vulnerable and get through the cost of living crisis together in dignity."
SF Backs Bill To Provide Free Period Products
Sinn Féin has welcomed a new Bill to make period products free in schools and other public buildings.
West Belfast MLA, Pat Sheehan, said: "It's welcome that Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has stepped up and will take the lead on progressing a bill to make period products free in schools and public buildings.
"The reckless actions of the DUP and their walk-out of the Executive had put this important piece of legislation in jeopardy.
"Nobody should have to suffer the indignity of using unsuitable sanitary materials or have to choose between putting food on the table or buying period products.
"Period products are essential, they are not luxury items, and for many people and families who are struggling with the rising cost of living, this can be a huge financial burden.
"The Period Products Bill is a step in the right direction in addressing period poverty and keeping money in people's pockets."
The SDLP has backed calls for a fast-track process for the accession of Ukraine to membership of the European Union.
Party Leader Colum Eastwood gave his support following a formal application by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to join the EU and confirmation from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that she believes that Ukraine should join.
Colum Eastwood MP has written to the President of the Party of European Socialists today seeking to build a consensus among leaders about Ukrainian accession.
Mr Eastwood said: "This is the greatest challenge to European solidarity since the end of the second world war. It is my firm view that following the request of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for accession to the European Union, that leaders across our continent should respond with an accelerated process which shows that our solidarity goes beyond warm words at a moment of severe threat to the life of the Ukrainian nation.
"Nobel Laureate John Hume described the European Union as 'the best example in the history of the world of conflict resolution' – it is time Europe exercised it's role as an agent for peace once more. We must show that the political institutions forged in the fire of a terrible conflict and which are based on respect for difference and diversity are capable of extinguishing the threat of war on our continent."
Alliance Calls For Urgent Action On Cost Of Living Crises
The Assembly and Westminster must take urgent action to support households through the cost of living crisis, Alliance MLA Andrew Muir has said.
North Down MLA Mr Muir was speaking as Alliance launched a series of proposals aimed at addressing the cost of living crisis. It includes a home heating support grant voucher scheme to supplement the winter fuel payment, a child payment scheme and more energy efficiency for social housing, as well as abolishing the planned hike in national insurance and a universal credit update in line with the true rate of inflation.
He said: "We need urgent action to support our most vulnerable households, both from the Assembly and UK Government, to protect people and prevent lasting social and economic damage to our society. Alongside other policy interventions, they would not only address rising energy costs but also food, transport and housing.
"Alliance's plan for vulnerable families is realistic and achievable. It will ensure we protect our most vulnerable and get through the cost of living crisis together in dignity."
SF Backs Bill To Provide Free Period Products
Sinn Féin has welcomed a new Bill to make period products free in schools and other public buildings.
West Belfast MLA, Pat Sheehan, said: "It's welcome that Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has stepped up and will take the lead on progressing a bill to make period products free in schools and public buildings.
"The reckless actions of the DUP and their walk-out of the Executive had put this important piece of legislation in jeopardy.
"Nobody should have to suffer the indignity of using unsuitable sanitary materials or have to choose between putting food on the table or buying period products.
"Period products are essential, they are not luxury items, and for many people and families who are struggling with the rising cost of living, this can be a huge financial burden.
"The Period Products Bill is a step in the right direction in addressing period poverty and keeping money in people's pockets."
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
12 October 2021
New Period Products Bill To Be Introduced Into The Assembly
A new Period Products Bill, which aims to address period poverty across Northern Ireland by making free period products available in schools, colleges and all other public buildings, is to be introduced into the Assembly. The Bill, introduced by the SDLP's Pat Catney, is due to undergo its first reading in the Assembly.
New Period Products Bill To Be Introduced Into The Assembly
A new Period Products Bill, which aims to address period poverty across Northern Ireland by making free period products available in schools, colleges and all other public buildings, is to be introduced into the Assembly. The Bill, introduced by the SDLP's Pat Catney, is due to undergo its first reading in the Assembly.
03 October 2023
SDLP Calls For Delivery Of Free Period Products In NI
The SDLP has called for the delivery of free period products in Northern Ireland. East Derry MLA Cara Hunter made the call following a Menstruation Matters event at Stormont on Monday, 02 October.
SDLP Calls For Delivery Of Free Period Products In NI
The SDLP has called for the delivery of free period products in Northern Ireland. East Derry MLA Cara Hunter made the call following a Menstruation Matters event at Stormont on Monday, 02 October.
13 May 2024
Free Period Product Introduced Across Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has become only the second place in the world to introduce legislation to provide free period products.
Free Period Product Introduced Across Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland has become only the second place in the world to introduce legislation to provide free period products.
29 April 2024
Assembly Approves New Regulations On Free Period Products
The Assembly has approved new regulations to ensure free period products are available to learners and staff at local further education colleges and higher education institutions.
Assembly Approves New Regulations On Free Period Products
The Assembly has approved new regulations to ensure free period products are available to learners and staff at local further education colleges and higher education institutions.
14 September 2023
Belfast City Council Wins Prestigious Environmental Award
Environmental charity, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, has awarded Belfast City Council a prestigious award in recognition of its free reusable period products initiative. The council won the Behaviour Change Award for its 'impactful and pioneering' pilot project which tackles single-use plastic.
Belfast City Council Wins Prestigious Environmental Award
Environmental charity, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful, has awarded Belfast City Council a prestigious award in recognition of its free reusable period products initiative. The council won the Behaviour Change Award for its 'impactful and pioneering' pilot project which tackles single-use plastic.
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
