Other News In Brief

Seasonal Agricultural Workers Exempt From Covid-19 Travel Restrictions

Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots MLA has announced that migrant workers arriving into Northern Ireland via the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Scheme will now qualify for exemptions from the Covid-19 related travel restrictions.

Minister Poots said: "I am pleased to announce that exemptions from certain Covid-19 regulations have been put in place for seasonal agricultural workers arriving in NI to work on edible horticulture farms. Access to seasonal workers is essential to the continued viability of the edible horticulture sector and given the relatively short timeframe of the visas, these exemptions will ensure that there is no time wasted when workers arrive here, and farms can benefit from the extra labour immediately."

Minister Poots added: "It is critical that we all continue to follow the Covid regulations, as put in place by the Department of Health. The amendments to the regulations for seasonal agricultural workers mean that workers will be able to avail of an exemption from self-isolation while working if they undertake Lateral Flow Device (LFD) tests on days 2, 5 and 8 following arrival."

Consultation Launched On Changing Places Toilet Facilities

The Department of Finance has launched a consultation on proposals to introduce requirements for the fitting of Changing Places Toilet (CPT) facilities in certain buildings commonly used by the public.

Finance Minister Conor Murphy MLA said: "Last year, I committed to incorporating Changing Places Toilets into our local Building Regulations and we have been working with stakeholders on proposals to make that happen.

"The approach we are outlining today would introduce a requirement for Changing Places Toilets to be fitted in certain buildings meeting specified criteria. This is an important step in dignity and equality which will make an immense difference to the lives of disabled people, their carers and their families. By enhancing Changing Places Toilets provision it will bring us closer to having proper facilities available in buildings where people who need to can access them.

"I would encourage everyone to respond to the consultation before it closes on Wednesday 20th October."

Teenager Arrested In Connection With L'Derry Assault

Police have issued an appeal for information following the alleged assault of a teenager in L'Derry.

According to reports, a 14-year-old was assaulted in an incident in the Clon Elagh shortly after midnight.

A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

Police are continuing to investigate the incident.