SDLP Urge Parties To Support Period Poverty Bill

The SDLP has urged all parties to back a Bill aimed at providing free period products in schools, colleges and public buildings.

The bill, brought forward by Lagan Valley MLA Pat Catney in response to the shocking levels of period poverty in Northern Ireland, will have its consideration stage in the Assembly today, Tuesday 15 March.

Mr Catney said: "As we get closer and closer to getting this bill over the line I would urge MLAs from all parties to support my efforts to tackle period poverty in Northern Ireland. We have an opportunity here to change people's lives for the better, to end the stigma around period poverty and to provide access to vital products for those who need them.

"While preparing this legislation I met with numerous groups and heard directly from women and girls about their experiences. They told me how they had been forced to take time off work and missed school or social events as a result of period poverty. It's heartbreaking to think that people were forced to use dangerous alternatives because they simply could not afford these products. Not having access to period products can have a significant impact on someone's physical and mental health.

"These products are not optional, they are needed and it's unfair to expect people to shell out large sums for them. Families across the North are struggling with rises in the cost of food, heating, fuel and everything else. This bill will ensure that while people are plunged into crisis, they will always have access to free period products.

"By working together on this we can put people first and deliver for our local communities. I hope MLAs will speak with one voice and do the right thing in ensuring period products are available for everyone who needs them."

Police Attacked During L'Derry Security Alert

Police officers attending a security alert in L'Derry have come under attack, with a number of missiles being thrown at officers.

Police were attending the discovery of a number of susp objects in the Fahan Street area of the city.

It is understood that a number of police vehicles were damages after officer came under attack while dealing with the incident.

The PSNI have described the incident as "disappointing".

According to reports, a number of homes in the area were evacuated while Army bomb disposal experts examing the suspicious objects. They were eventually removed from the scheme for further examination.

Anyone with any information about either incident is asked to contact police.

Review Of NI Taxi Fares Underway

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has announced that a review of taxi fares in Northern Ireland is now underway, as part of ongoing efforts to help rebuild the industry following Covid-19 restrictions.

Minister Mallon said: "Taking account of views expressed in a targeted consultation on taxi fares and the rise in fuel at that time and other running costs I announced a 7.6% increase in the maximum fare.

"I also committed at that time to initiating a further fare review in Spring 2022, based on updated data, and am pleased to announce that my Department has now initiated a 2022 fare review. The targeted consultation process on the proposals from the taxi fare review will go forward in the new Assembly mandate.

"I am committed to helping the industry recover from the pandemic and also to operate during these current difficult times."

The Department will continue to engage with the taxi industry to advise them of this progress and to assist with their recovery.