Kimmins Pledges New Strategy To Tackle Roads

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has told the Assembly a new Road Maintenance Strategy will be published in the coming weeks, promising a more targeted and sustainable approach to improving the Northern Ireland’s road network.

The Minister acknowledged frustration at the state of local roads, particularly in rural areas, where long-term underinvestment has left surfaces steadily deteriorating.

"This is not what the public, I nor my Department, wants to see," she said. "I am committed to doing more to improve the condition of our road network."

The new strategy will focus on higher-quality repairs rather than spreading resources too thinly, and will use data and technology to provide better value for money.

Minister Kimmins said she will work with Executive colleagues to secure further investment. "My Department is focused on delivering positive change for people, the economy, and the environment. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated," she added.

The strategy is expected to be published before the end of the month.

Givan Hails Progress On School Uniforms Affordability Bill

Education Minister Paul Givan has welcomed the passing of the School Uniforms Bill at Consideration Stage in the Assembly, calling it a "significant step forward" in reducing the cost burden on families.

The legislation will give the Department of Education powers to issue binding statutory guidance requiring schools to make uniforms more affordable. It also extends the Education Authority's clothing allowance to pupils in independent schools.

Mr Givan said affordability was a growing concern for parents: "At a time of growing pressures on family budgets, I am extremely concerned that families are finding the cost of a school uniform a significant outlay, and that in some cases it deters them from applying for a particular school." The Bill has faced criticism from some who argue it does not go far enough, but the Minister defended it as "carefully constructed to ensure it delivers real, tangible support for families struggling with the cost of school uniforms, while also being workable for schools and robust in law."

Guidelines are expected to be issued once the Bill completes its final stage, anticipated in October 2025. Schools will be required to comply with the new rules from the 2026/27 academic year.

New EY Assured Skills Academy Launches

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced 20 training places on a new Assured Skills Academy with EY, aimed at developing expertise in business operations and technology.

The six-week programme, delivered in partnership with Belfast Met, runs from 10 November to 18 December 2025 at the Springvale and Titanic campuses. It will provide participants with practical experience in EY's Strategy and Transactions team, alongside the opportunity to gain industry-recognised qualifications. Successful candidates will be guaranteed a job interview with the multinational firm.

Dr Archibald said the academy was part of efforts to strengthen Northern Ireland's skills base: "Assured Skills Academies have a very strong track record of success in upskilling people and broadening the local skills base which is a key element to growing our economy."

EY's Northern Ireland Managing Partner Rob Heron encouraged applicants from all backgrounds, including career changers and returners to work.

Participants will receive a weekly training allowance of £180 plus travel and childcare support. Applications close at 10am on 13 October 2025 and more information is available on the nidirect website at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/assured-skills-academies and www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/business-operations-and-technology-academy-ey.