Consultation on Mandatory CCTV in NI Slaughterhouses

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has launched a consultation on proposals to make CCTV mandatory in slaughterhouses across Northern Ireland.

The move aims to enhance animal welfare, bringing NI in line with the rest of the UK. The proposals include mandatory CCTV in key areas, unrestricted access to recordings for officials, and a requirement to keep recordings for 90 days. While most slaughterhouses already have CCTV, the regulations would ensure consistent standards. The consultation closes on 20 May 2025.

Belfast Residents Invited to Pitch Creative Ideas for Funding Belfast City Council is inviting residents to submit creative project ideas for their community for a chance to receive funding through the 'Bank of Ideas' scheme. £50,000 is available, with the public voting on their favourite suggestions. All creative ideas are welcome, and workshops are being held in April and May to help with applications. The deadline for submissions is 5pm on Wednesday, 14 May, and a public voting day will be held in City Hall on Sunday, 29 June. At least 25 projects will receive up to £2,000 each.

Aiken: Chancellor's Statement Fails to Restore Confidence

Ulster Unionist Party's Steve Aiken MLA criticised the Chancellor's statement, arguing it failed to restore confidence in her economic management.

He highlighted the OBR's growth rate cut, attributed to the Chancellor's policies, and the limited impact of proposed measures. Aiken also raised concerns about potential austerity and the lack of substantial economic growth initiatives, particularly in light of global uncertainties. He indicated that NI Finance officials will be reviewing the statement's implications for the NI Executive.