Sinn Féin MLA Welcomes Consultation On Baby Loss Certificate Scheme

Sinn Féin MLA Jemma Dolan has welcomed the launch of a public consultation on Northern Ireland's proposed Baby Loss Certificate Scheme, hailing it as a crucial step towards formally recognising the grief of parents who experience pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.

"I welcome the launch of this consultation on a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme," stated Jemma Dolan. "For too long, families who have experienced the heartbreaking loss of a baby before 24 weeks have had to grieve in silence without formal recognition. This scheme is an important step towards acknowledging their pain and honouring the memory of their babies."

The Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA praised the collaborative efforts between the Departments of Finance and Health, as well as the tireless work of campaigners and charities who have long advocated for greater support for bereaved families.

"This is about giving parents a choice – a way to mark their loss in a tangible, compassionate and dignified manner," she added. "While a certificate cannot take away the sorrow, it can offer comfort, validation, and a recognition that their baby's life mattered.”

Ms Dolan strongly encouraged public participation in the consultation, emphasising: "I urge parents, families, and members of the public to share their views. Your voices are essential in shaping a scheme that truly meets the needs of those affected by such profound loss."

She expressed her anticipation for the scheme's introduction later this year and reiterated her commitment to supporting bereaved parents and families across communities. The consultation is open until Thursday, 12 September 2025.

Justice Minister Condemns "Serious Disorder" In L'Derry

Justice Minister Naomi Long has strongly condemned the "serious disorder" that in L'Derry on the evening of Wednesday, 17 June, which saw a number of PSNI officers injured.

The Minister stated: "Yet again we have seen disturbing scenes on our streets with the eruption of violence and disorder last night in Derry. Yet again, the PSNI came under attack and yet again a number of officers were injured. There is absolutely no place in our society for such disorder and there is absolutely no justification for it."

She appealed directly to those involved, urging them to consider the severe consequences of their actions, including the potential for criminal convictions. "Those involved in this disorder will be pursued by the PSNI and will be brought to justice in a court of law. This could have a serious impact on individuals in terms of employability, international travel and much more. Rioting is never 'recreational': it is serious criminality which places lives at risk and destroys communities."

Expressing her concern for the injured officers, Minister Long extended her best wishes for a speedy recovery. "No one deserves to be attacked for the job they do," she affirmed. She also reiterated her commitment to introducing stronger legislation to protect police officers and staff, as part of her forthcoming Sentencing Bill, which she hopes to present to the Assembly in the autumn of this year.

Anyone with information that could assist the police in bringing those responsible for the violence to justice is urged to contact 101.

DUP Criticises NI Climate Action Plan

DUP Deputy Leader Michelle McIlveen has heavily criticised the draft Climate Action Plan for Northern Ireland, warning it is unrealistic and could severely damage the agri-food sector.

She expressed concerns over the estimated £1 billion cost by 2027, questioning DAERA's claim of "financial neutrality" due to a lack of supporting evidence. McIlveen accused the plan of treating agriculture as an afterthought, with a £70 million capital cost on the sector and no clear indication of who would bear it.

The DUP spokesperson asserted that the plan amounts to "livestock reduction by stealth," citing proposed measures such as reducing calving age and intervals, and promoting specific feed and diets. She highlighted that DAERA's own projections indicate a significant reduction in beef and dairy cattle by 2027, expressing fears that voluntary measures could become mandatory under future carbon budgets.

McIlveen argued that the plan risks undermining a crucial industry, which she described as the "backbone of rural Northern Ireland," through uncosted, untested, and potentially unworkable proposals. She drew parallels to the "Nutrients Action Programme debacle," suggesting the Minister had not learned from past issues.

In conclusion, McIlveen called for DAERA to prioritise sustainable food production, a fair transition, and evidence-led policymaking. She urged the agri-food industry to participate actively in the consultation, hoping the Minister would heed their concerns regarding the plan's feasibility and impact on family farms.