Robinson Welcomes Secretary Of State's Stance On Dissident Prisoner Release

DUP Leader Gavin Robinson has welcomed a definitive statement from the Secretary of State in the House of Commons, confirming that the Government has no plans to secure a ceasefire from dissident republican terrorists that would lead to the early release of dissident prisoners.

Speaking after the statement, Mr Robinson explained that the issue arose during the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee's inquiry into legacy matters.

"Within that process it was startling to be asked whether we were aware of Government plans to secure a ceasefire from dissident republicans which would then see the release of prisoners," he said. "It was obviously important therefore for the Secretary of State to have an opportunity to address that concern on the record in the House of Commons. It is welcome that his statement was clear and unequivocal."

Mr Robinson condemned any suggestion of early releases: "Northern Ireland has seen numerous corruptions of justice, including the previous release of terrorist prisoners. Rather than seeking any route towards the release of prisoners there should be efforts to ensure that more of these criminals are actually placed behind bars."

He concluded that the Secretary of State's clear comments may help to allay some fears, though caution would likely remain given Northern Ireland's history. "Given the history in Northern Ireland people will undoubtedly remain cautious, not least those who have directly suffered at the hands of terrorists," Mr Robinson added.

Eastwood Slams Health Department Over £1m Northlands Funding Delay

Colum Eastwood MP has publicly challenged the British Government and the Department of Health over a five-year delay in releasing £1 million in promised funding for the Northlands Centre, a vital addiction treatment facility in Derry. The funding was secured under the 2020 New Decade New Approach Agreement, but the Northern Ireland Office has confirmed it is still awaiting a business case from the Department of Health.

Mr Eastwood highlighted the critical need for the funds, stating that addiction is "one of the most serious health crises we're facing" and praising the Northlands Centre's frontline work. He expressed frustration that despite the British Government's commitment and a previous confirmation that the money should go to Northlands, the Executive and the Department of Health have seemingly "abdicated their responsibility" to secure the resources.

Having directly pressed the Northern Ireland Office, which reiterated its wait for the business case, Mr Eastwood has now written to First Minister Michelle O'Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Pengelly. He is seeking an explanation for why Executive departments are failing the people of Derry on such a crucial issue.

The MP underscored the urgency, asserting that "there is simply no excuse for the stance the Department have taken." He concluded by emphasising that the funding "needs to be delivered so that Northlands can continue their lifesaving work."

Sorcha Eastwood Welcomes Government Move to Regulate Buy Now Pay Later

Alliance Lagan Valley MP Sorcha Eastwood has welcomed the UK Government's decision to regulate Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) lenders, following her persistent campaign on the issue. New legislation will place BNPL firms under the supervision of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA, requiring them to conduct affordability checks and allowing customers to escalate complaints to the Financial Ombudsman.

Ms Eastwood described the move as "a long overdue step to protect people from falling into debt through unregulated lending." She stated that since becoming an MP, she has consistently advocated for BNPL providers to be held to the same standards as other lenders, having raised the issue in Parliament and collaborated with consumer groups like Which? to push for stronger regulation. "It's good to see action finally being taken," she added.

Highlighting the particular impact in Northern Ireland, Ms Eastwood noted: "In Northern Ireland, too many families are using BNPL to cover everyday essentials. That's why proper oversight and fair safeguards are essential." While welcoming the reforms, she also stressed the need for "much greater marketing transparency and information about the risks of missed payments and credit checks."

Ms Eastwood concluded by calling the legislation "a win for consumers" and pledged to "continue to work to ensure the final rules are robust, enforceable, and work for people on the ground."