Concerns Raised Over Lack Of Drug Warning From PHA

Green Party Councillor Brian Smyth has raised concerns over what he describes as a lack of communication from the Public Health Agency (PHA) in Northern Ireland regarding a high-dosage MDMA warning issued by health authorities in the Republic of Ireland.

The warning was given ahead of this weekend's Electric Picnic festival.

Councillor Smyth argued that because the drugs trade is an "all-island" issue, it is vital that the PHA communicate any potential concerns to the public in Northern Ireland. He added that a harm reduction approach, including back-of-house drug testing facilities at festivals, should be implemented.

The councillor concluded by stating that drug testing at large-scale events and an overdose prevention centre in Belfast should be a "no-brainer" if the authorities are serious about saving lives. The Green Party has also been advocating for the decriminalisation of drugs in Northern Ireland, following the model of Portugal.

SDLP Slams Minister's 'Unilateral Action On Teachers

SDLP Education Spokesperson Cara Hunter MLA has strongly criticised Education Minister Paul Givan for moving to outlaw lawful union activity, a move that has sparked outrage among teachers across Northern Ireland.

Teaching unions, including INTO, NASUWT, and the NEU, have branded the Minister's plans as "Trump-esque" and a "slap in the face". Ms Hunter said that this was the latest in a "string of solo runs" by the Minister, who has ignored the public consultation on the issue and appears to be operating without any Executive restraint. She argued that instead of backing teachers, who she said are struggling with chronic underfunding and soaring classroom pressures, the Minister is threatening "punitive fines" and "criminalising teachers".

The SDLP representative said this was part of a "reckless pattern of ideologically driven decisions" that offers no solutions for the education system. She added that her party would continue to stand with teachers, parents, and pupils and is urging the Minister's Executive colleagues to "wake-up" to these actions before further damage is done.

Sinn Féin MLA Condemns Donegall Avenue Attack

Sinn Féin MLA Deirdre Hargey has described the racist attack on a home in the Donegall Avenue area of south Belfast as "disgraceful and disgusting."

Her comments came after two people were charged in connection with the incident in the early hours of Thursday, 28 August, in which residents were also injured.

The South Belfast MLA said the behaviour had "no place in today's society." She added that the majority of people in south Belfast "stand squarely against racism" and welcome the "huge positives" that diversity brings.

Ms Hargey has urged anyone with information on the attack to bring it forward to the PSNI.