SDLP nominates Doire Finn as Deputy Mayor of Newry, Mourne and Down
The SDLP will nominate Newry Councillor Doire Finn as the next Deputy Mayor of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
Councillor Finn has been nominated by her fellow councillors to serve in the role for 2026/27.
She said she was looking forward to using the year ahead to champion local communities, support the arts and cultural sector and showcase the very best of Newry, Mourne and Down.
Councillor Doire Finn said: “It is an incredible honour to be nominated as Deputy Mayor of Newry, Mourne and Down. Growing up here, you quickly learn the importance of community, looking out for one another and taking pride in where you come from, and those are values that have stayed with me throughout my time in public life.
“I want to thank my family, partner, friends and SDLP colleagues for their support and for putting their faith in me in taking on this role.
SDLP Newry Councillor Doire Finn will be the next deputy chairperson of Newry Mourne and Down District Council. (Photo: Declan Roughan / Press Eye)
“Since being elected to Council, I have always tried to use my voice to stand up for local people and for the issues that matter most to our communities.
“Whether that is supporting local businesses and community groups, promoting opportunities for young people or championing our arts and cultural sector, I have always believed politics should be about improving people’s everyday lives and helping our communities reach their full potential.
“Our district has an incredible creative and community spirit.
“From local artists and musicians to volunteers and grassroots organisations, there are so many people giving their time and talent, working tirelessly to make this place better every day.
“As Deputy Mayor, I want to use this role to champion those people and ensure their contribution gets the recognition it deserves.
“I am also determined to continue speaking up for young people and ensuring they feel supported and optimistic about building a future for themselves here at home.
“Too many people still feel they have to leave to build a career or afford a future, and I want to keep pushing for investment, quality jobs and thriving communities where people can put down roots.
“It will be a privilege to represent Newry, Mourne and Down and to celebrate everything that makes this district such a special place to live, work and visit.”
DAERA seeks views on fisheries management proposals for protected offshore marine areas
DAERA has today launched a consultation on the development of fisheries management measures to protect conservation areas offshore.
The NI fishing industry has already been under further pressures from high fuel costs, visa and immigration issues for crews, high crew costs, and other jurisdictions imposing regulations and extending their waters.
The consultation is aimed at organisations, groups, and people engaged in activities, or have a general interest in the marine area beyond 12 nautical miles of the coast.
Launching the consultation, Minister Muir said: “Our seas support livelihoods, communities and a vital fishing industry, and it is essential that we are proactive in taking action that protects ecosystems and fish stocks for future generations.
“I recognise the challenges that fishing businesses are facing on a daily basis, from rising fuel costs and visa restrictions to the increasing uncertainty created by proposals for offshore renewable energy and the impacts of climate change on fish stocks.
“I acknowledge these realities and recognise the essential role the fishing industry plays in our coastal economy, cultural heritage and food security.
This consultation proposes fisheries management measures for Queenie Corner MCZ, South Rigg MCZ and Pisces Reef Complex SAC.
“At the same time, action is needed to ensure healthy, productive marine ecosystems that can continue to support fisheries and wider societal benefits over the long term.
“Evidence increasingly shows that well‑designed and effectively managed protective measures can allow damaged habitats to recover, increase resilience to climate change, and support the replenishment of fish stocks beyond protected areas.”
The introduction of fisheries management measures is intended to support fishing at sustainable levels while protecting the marine environment.
There have been signs of recovery in marine habitats in the inshore region after regulatory measures were introduced, so a similar approach is being proposed for three offshore MPAs where most of the protected habitats are in ‘unfavourable’ condition.
These are the Pisces Reef Complex SAC; South Rigg MCZ and Queenie Corner MCZ. They are located in the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, spanning 298km2.
Prawn boats may face further restrictions in the Irish Sea with the introduction of marine protected zones.
In these areas, the main target fishery is Norway Lobster (also known as the Dublin Bay prawn or Nephrops). Fisheries management measures are proposed where bottom trawling for these prawns occurs.
The proposed measures have been developed using a co-design approach with the stakeholder group Co-Fish: Fisheries and Conservation Partnership, which was formed in 2023.
Minister Muir added: “The proposals outlined in the consultation recognise the unfavourable conservation status of these protected habitats and aim to help these sites achieve their conservation objectives. They also reinforce Northern Ireland’s continued support for international obligations for clean, healthy, safe, productive and biologically diverse seas.
“Our shared aim is thriving seas that continue to sustain both marine life and the communities that rely upon them. I recognise the importance of your input, whether as individuals or organisations and I am keen to hear your views to help inform these fisheries management measures.”
The consultation will remain open for 12 weeks and will close for responses on 24 August 2026.
A police officer was seriously injured as a police vehicle is stolen and a shot is fired in Downpatrick
A major incident has unfolded in Downpatrick this morning 31st May.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland has launched an attempted murder investigation after an officer was struck by a stolen police vehicle in Downpatrick.
Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones said: “At approximately 4.45am this morning, Sunday 31st May, a vehicle failed to stop for police in the Fountain Street area – it was later located in the Ballymote Walk area.
“Officers observed a man running from the vehicle and a foot pursuit ensued towards the Colmcille Road.
A forensic officer examines the scene of the incident at St Colmcille’s Road in Downpatrick where a police officer was hit by a vehicle.
“As officers returned to their police car, someone was in the driver’s seat – driving erratically and directly towards an officer. The officer discharged one round from his firearm.
“The officer was struck by the vehicle – causing serious injuries. The vehicle was subsequently abandoned a short time later. The suspect made off from the scene.
“Urgent medical treatment was provided at the scene by police colleagues, who were also supported by members of the local community.
“The officer was taken to hospital by colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service for treatment to his injuries believed to be serious, but thankfully not life-threatening at this time.
“As part of our enquiries, a 27-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody at this time.”
The police car was abandoned on the playing field at Ballymote Walk.
The police vehicle, officer’s weapon and ammunition have all been recovered and removed for forensic examination.
Assistant Chief Constable Jones continued: “As is standard procedure when a police firearm is drawn, the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland has been informed – and their enquiries are ongoing.
“Officers put themselves on the front line to help keep people safe – they do not deserve to be assaulted for simply doing their job, and today’s incident is a stark reminder of the dangers they face.
The road is closed off for forensic examination.
“Our thoughts are with the officer as he receives ongoing medical treatment today for his injuries in hospital. And we will continue to support him and his family.
“This would have been a terrifying experience for the officer and also his colleagues – with the clear potential to cause life-changing or even fatal injuries.
“Actions were taken this morning in defence of life to protect himself and fellow officers.
“Detectives from our Serious Crime branch have now launched an attempted murder investigation – with their enquiries continuing at pace.
The scene where the police officer was injured in Downpatrick.
“We would ask anyone who has information, or who has CCTV, dash-cam or other footage of what happened to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 317 31/05/26.”
Justice Minister Expresses Sympathy To Injured Police Officer
Long says police face danger each day and pays tribute to their professionalism and courage
Justice Minister Naomi Long expressed her reaction to the incident in Downpatrick and said: “My thoughts are first and foremost with the injured officer, as well as their family and colleagues. I have no doubt this was a distressing experience for all the officers at the scene.
“I hope the injured officer recovers quickly from their injuries.
“This incident highlights once again the danger our police officers face each and every time they put on a uniform.
“They place themselves in harms’ way to keep our communities safe and I wish to pay tribute to their professionalism and courage.
“I would urge anyone with any information to contact police.”
Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason Shocked At Incident In Downpatrick
The local community is shocked following the serious incident in Downpatrick says Mason.
Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has said people across Downpatrick are shocked following a serious incident in the town in the early hours of Sunday morning, which has left a police officer in hospital.
Speaking today, the South Down MLA said:
“The news that a police officer has sustained serious injuries following an incident in Downpatrick has caused deep concern across our community.
“I want to wish the injured officer a full and speedy recovery and extend my thoughts to their family and colleagues at what will be a difficult time.
“The people of Downpatrick want to see those responsible held accountable for this reckless and dangerous incident.
“Anyone with information should come forward to the PSNI.”
McGrath Says Full Review Of Incident Is Needed
McGrath says full review needed following Downpatrick incident
SDLP Policing Board member Colin McGrath has condemned an incident in Downpatrick which saw a police car stolen and an officer seriously injured.
He said a full review was needed into what took place.
South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “This appears to have been a disturbing and shocking incident in Downpatrick resulting in a police car being stolen and a shot being fired at a suspect, before an officer was hit and badly hurt.
“I would expect a full review of what took place during this incident to understand how this happened, in line with Police Ombudsman processes. A police car being stolen is very serious, particularly given firearms and ammunition were present, and lessons must be learned from this.
“There can be no justification for these scenes, those involved should have cooperated fully with the police when initially stopped in Fountain Street.
“Instead the life of an officer was put at risk and this it totally unacceptable. I hope that the officer makes a full and speedy recovery.
“I would urge anybody with any information to contact police.”
Truesdale says attack was reprehensible and reckless
Alliance Mournes Councillor Jill Truesdale has condemned an attack on police that took place in the Colmcille Road area of Downpatrick in the early hours of this morning (31st May), calling it ‘utterly reprehensible’.
The incident involved the stealing of a police car which was then driven towards officers at the scene, and saw one officer sustain serious injuries.
A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
Cllr Truesdale has said: “First and foremost, I want to extend my thoughts and sympathies to the officer left injured, their family, and to those other officers present at the scene.
“I hope they receive all the support they need in the wake of this totally reckless, utterly reprehensible attack.
“This has come as a shock to the local community here, especially to see such an incident taking place in what is a largely residential area.
“No one should be subject to this kind of danger on the job, not least those who are tasked with keeping us all safe, and whilst we can only be glad the situation didn’t end more tragically, what we’ve seen here is totally unacceptable.
“I wish the injured officer a speedy recovery.”
McMurray tells Assembly of ‘shocking attack’ on a police officer
South Down Alliance MLA says daily danger is a reality for police officers
In a Member’s Statement delivered before the Assembly today, Andrew McMurray MLA has condemned what he described as “a shocking attack” on a PSNI officer in Downpatrick, who was struck by a stolen police vehicle.
The officer in question sustained serious injuries, which required hospital treatment. An attempted murder investigation is now underway.
The South Down MLA commented: “Unfortunately, this is a reality for PSNI officers who put themselves in harm’s way every single day to keep everyone in the community safe. It is wholly unacceptable.
“I want to thank the victim’s PSNI colleagues, who provided urgent medical treatment at the scene, and the colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, who further cared for him and took him to hospital.
“I also want to highlight and thank members of the public who provided help and support at the scene. I am sure that this demonstration of support from the community was much appreciated by the officers present, who must have been very shaken by the experience.
“Finally, I want to take this opportunity to wish the injured officer and his family well, and I pray that he makes a full recovery.”
Ardglss FC U14 goalkeeper Sophie McGreevy trains with the girls NI soccer squad
With the growing popularity of female soccer, there is a young star in the making in Ardglass who plays for the U14 team and has been training in the NI female goalkeeper squad for some time.
Sophie McGreevy, almost 14, is a pupils at the Lecale Trinity Grammar School in Downpatrick and and she says she first took an interest in soccer when she was younger in the under-11s and although she played different positions in the mixed team, she settled into the goal-keeper role.
She is a proud member of the goal-keeper NI training squad and trains at the Crewe United grounds in Belfast with other keeper hopefuls.
A lover of watersports, Sophia is very competitive and keeps the back lines of the U14 Ardglass team in order. She has a strong kick out, and a commanding voice that keeps the defenders on their toes.
Ardglass U14 win the DYFL cup and keeper Sophie McGreevey from Ardglass played her part in the win against Downpatrick.
Sopie said that she will be able to play in the Ardglass teams until she becomes 18 then she wil have to find a Ladies team.
“I love sports at school and i when i get out onto the pitch I just want to make sure my team wins and keep the ball out of our net.
“I also play gaelic football and I and the keeper for the U14s there too with Ardglass GAC. Gaelic football ball handling skills have helped me to be a better keeper.
Sophia McGreevy from Ardglass, who plays for the U14 team as goalkeeper, is training with the NI female squad as keeper and could be playing for the team one day.
“But it’s my dream to get on to the Northern Ireland team and be their keeper. Being part of the training squad is quite something and it really gives me a buzz. I love to train at the Crewe United pitch.
“I’ve always wanted to play higher level football and now I have the opportunity.
“I’ll do my best to get there into the NI nets. My mum and dad and two brothers and my sister are all shouting for me. I’m the youngest in the family, and it would be great to walk out on to Windsor Park and make them proud.
I’m in Year 9 just now but when I leave school I’d like to train maybe as a photographer and specialise in sports’ photography. It looks like an exciting job and you get around a lot and meet some interesting people.”
Ardglass U13 keeper Sophia McGreevy keeps her eye on the ball ready for a save.
So Sophia has a journey in front of her and she really wants to live her dream of being a top female goal-keeper. I’ve got a feeling she’s going to give it everything she’s got.
I can just see her now at the business end of a long lens in the nets making a cracking save against England for the ladies’ Northern Ireland team.
A spokesperson for Bishopscourt Dif and Drift said: “We made a contribution to the local economy. We can run up to 14 events a years and tomorrows event will attract hundreds. Across the area, B&Bs, hotels, pubs, restaurants, shops and garages etc will all benefit from the extra footfall.
“In June, we have the Jacob Super cars event. These supercars leave Carickfergus and drive down to Bishopscourt for their final stop. This show draw an excellent crowd as it is a popular event now in its 14th year.
“In August we will host the Irish Drift Series once more, the Third Round. This is a very popular event and also draws a crowd.
Ben Sharvin from Kilclief will be one of the many local drivers looking forward to the Sunday event.
“Since we set up in Bishopscourt three years ago, just off the Ardglass-Kilclief Road, we have made a significant number of environmental changes and clean-ups transforming the whole site, and we will continue to make improvements going forward.
“We have shipping containers for spectators in case the weather is bad. And we have a coffee shop too and toilets. So our facilities and great.
“All of our workers too are local people including the marshals. And St John’s Ambulance will also be on hand in case someone needs attention.
“Looking forward, we have lots of room to expand our business. At the moment we run a National Drift Academy where drivers of any age over 17 can get lessons in how diff and drift. So there is lots going on this summer. We have 3 drift tracks and 2 diff arenas.”
Get you ticket’s HERE.
For Further Information: PHONE: 07597560040
Diffing: when a car spins and manoeuvres around in a ring at speed basically doing do-nuts.
Drifting: when a car runs on the track burning up the rubber.
Celebrities’ cat choices influence cat buyers through social media says Cat Protection
More than one in five UK cat owners (22%) say they were influenced by a celebrity or social media influencer when choosing their cat, according to new research from Cats Protection.
Welfare experts are warning that “trendy” breeds can suffer from painful lifelong health conditions. The survey of 2,000 cat owners found the impact of celebrity culture is particularly strong among pedigree cat owners.
Over half (55%) of those with Scottish Fold, Persian and Burmese cats said a celebrity or influencer influenced their choice, compared to just 7% of owners of non-pedigree cats.
The findings come as pedigree cats now account for 36% of the UK cat population – a sharp rise from 23% in 2021 – with ownership growing fastest among affluent 18–34-year-olds, the age group most active on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
Cats Protection warns that the growing popularity of certain “aesthetic” breeds – often promoted online for their distinctive looks – carries serious welfare risks.
An animal-lover who bought a Scottish Fold after seeing Molly Mae’s on social media had no idea the breed has a deformity – and is now worried her pet will “live a life of pain”. Adele Cullum, 28, and her partner welcomed much-loved Scottish Fold, Bella, into their home last year, after paying a breeder they found online £500.
Selective breeding for features such as folded ears, flat faces, shortened legs or hairless bodies can lead to chronic health problems, including joint disorders, breathing difficulties and mobility issues.
Scottish Folds, for example, are bred for their distinctive folded ears but suffer from a genetic condition called osteochondrodysplasia, which can cause severe pain, stiffness and early-onset arthritis.
The research also suggests celebrity influence is shaping how people interact with their cats.
Owners influenced by celebrities were more likely to:
• Walk their cats on leads (27% vs 21% overall)
• Use transparent “bubble” pet carriers (38% vs 17%)
Cat behaviour experts warn that these trends may expose cats to stressful or unnatural situations, as many are uncomfortable being restrained or placed in unfamiliar environments.
Adele Cullum, 29, bought a Scottish Fold kitten after seeing the breed on social media posts by Love Island star Molly-Mae Hague.
“I first saw Scottish Folds on Molly-Mae’s social channels and it made me more interested in the breed,” she said.
“They looked so cute, so I decided to buy one online. For the first few months, Bella seemed fine – but then she stopped putting weight on her back legs and would cry in pain.”
A vet later confirmed Bella likely has breed-related health issues affecting her joints.
“Now she’s on anti-inflammatories and doesn’t walk the same way,” Adele added. “I worry she’ll live a life of pain. I wish I had known more before buying her.”
Adele is urging prospective owners to research thoroughly and consider adopting rather than buying pedigree cats online.
Sarah Merrett, Head of Cat Welfare Engagement at Cats Protection, said: “Celebrities and influencers can have a powerful impact – particularly on younger audiences – by shaping what’s seen as desirable or ‘on trend’.
“But they aren’t necessarily cat welfare experts, and may themselves be following trends.
“We’re concerned that increasing demand for certain breeds is contributing to serious welfare issues, especially where cats are bred for exaggerated physical traits.
“Before choosing a cat, it’s vital to seek advice from a reputable charity, vet or qualified behaviourist and consider what’s best for the animal – not what’s popular online.”
Cats Protection is calling on the UK Government to strengthen protections for cats by introducing tighter regulation of breeding and banning the breeding of cats with extreme physical traits linked to poor welfare.
Bredagh GAC came out of their corner fighting to try and stay in Division One and beat Downpatrick RGU
Down GAA,
All County Football League,
Division 1,
Final Score: Bredagh. 3 – 22 1-14 Downpatrick RGU.
Both teams needed to win this match to help ensure their place in the First Division next season. Both are trailing at the tail end of of the league table with the RGU having won two matches and Bredagh none to date.
This was Bredagh’s first win and it was a tense match with one late first half altercation between the RGU captain and a Bredagh official.
Bedagh started with a point within a minute before the RGU settled and 2 minutes later Conor Francis scored a goal for the home side leaving the RGU a little startled.
Bredagh felt they had then Kealan Devlan took a point to add to the RGU pain. The momentum was with Bredagh in the first quarter of teh game as they clocked up points with the RGU trying to keep abreast.
Gerdie Collins battling up front won a free and Jarleth Branagan kicked it for a point followed by another point from Johnny Bell.
And again Bredagh struck with a quick point, the RGU not being able to stop the fast runs into their half. Again Collins replied with a point.
Gradually after 12 minutes, the RGU started to settle their game and were passing more fluently in attack mode. However, their catching from kickouts was quite poor at times giving Bredagh the advantage.
Tom Smyth finds space in the Bredagh half.
RGU captain Branagan secured a well taken 2-pointer from a free and the RGU were looking more confident as the game started to level off.
Ar that point Matty Hardy came of with a head injury. Conor McGrady started a few good runs and pushed through the middle and won a free which Branagan again pointed with his ace kicking.
Collins then enjoyed a run through the middle and took a point. The RGU started to look as though they could turn the game round and clawed back the score slowly. An RGU midfielder hit a ball towards the Bredagh goal and Collins hit it and it came through the hands of defender Ruauiri McMahon for a goal. But Bredagh ground away and pulled back another two points in play.
The RTGU had managed to close a 4 point deficit at one stage to draw at half-time. It was a tight match. The stakes were high.
The first half score was Bredagh 1-19 1-19 RGU.
s the second half started it was the RGU that looked the grittier and sharper andt despite hitting the bar in the first minute, Bredagh came back steadily in a disci-lined way gring at the RGU with much o fthe attacked spearheaded and finished by Devlin.
Collons was playing well and in one attack too a knock and teh referee awards a free kick whic Branagan too and secured another 2-pointer.
RGU forward Conor McGrady in possession as Beedagh’s Aidan O’Keefe moves in.
And despite Bell taking a point and keeping the attacks going, it was Bredagh that were scoring more steadily and the gap widened as the game progressed. The RTGU did not seem to have an answer for the Bredagh tactics.
The RGU catching midfield for kick-outs was quite poor and this cost the visitors a lot of valuable lost possession.
Bredagh had pulled off another goal widening the difference as the game moved into its fourth quarter. But the RGU did try and rectify the balance with efforts from Collins, McGrady and Damien Turley, with Tom Smyth getting in on the act. But the RGU were doing too little too late.
Bredagh had sparkled into life and sub Jamie Rutherford claimed a few points along with Jack Watson and defender Thomas Clarke. The home side sensed their first win of the season. But Bredagh would need at least another win or two to survive in Division 1 and that will be a tough call.
Damien Turley had a number of fine runs against Bredagh.
The RGU are sitting in 4th bottom place and failed to beat Glen last week which would have given them a cushion as they negotiate the finals stages of Div 1. The RGU are still safe… just. They can’t afford to lose any more games and need to be needle sharp for the remainder of their league games this season.
The RGU team for whatever reason despite individual performances could not muster up a rally against Bredagh and the game looked like a foregone conclusion with 15 minutes to go.
Bredagh GAC: 1 Oisin Tracey 2 Thomas Clarke 3 Ruairi McMahon 4 Niall McElvogue 5 Aidan O’Keefe 6Michael Woods 7 Conor Francis 9 Benny Hasson 10 Michael Robinson 11 Tommy McElroy 12 Jack Watson 13 Jacob McDonnell 14 Kealan Devlin 15 Emmet Rogers 28 Donal Hughes.
Downpatrick RGU: 1 2 3 Damien Turley 4 5 6 7 8 Matthew Hardy 9 10 Tom Smyth 11 Conor McGrady 12 Johnny Bell 13 Gerdie Collins 14 Jarleth Branagan 15
NMD Council to Address Unauthorised Off-Road Vehicle Use on Its Land
We’ve all heard and seen the young racers revving up and whizzing past, exhilarated by the noise and speed of their vehicles.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council is to work with a number of its partners to tackle the unauthorised use of scramblers, quads and other off-road vehicles on its land, with the focus on prevention, education and enforcement.
A recommendation to address community concern about the issue was endorsed at a meeting of the Council’s Active and Healthy Communities Committee on 18th May and is due to be considered by the full Council when it meets next month.
The use of off-road vehicles is not permitted on pavements, public roads and spaces and they can only be used on private land with permission of the owner.
Particular concern has been expressed about off-road vehicles on council land in Newry and Downpatrick, with the issue regularly discussed at meetings of the District Electoral Area (DEA) Forums and the Newry and Mourne Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP).
Off-road vehicles are causing issues on land owned by Newry Mourne and Down District Council and a multi-agency meeting is planned to address the issues.
More adults are using scramblers, with so-called e-scooters common among young people, with community concern prompting the Council to engage with other councils to learn how they are tackling what is a province-wide problem, with the discussions helping formulate a way forward locally.
Officials plan to hold an inter-agency meeting focusing on hotspot areas and agree a district-wide approach to the issue which will include devising an awareness campaign for off-road vehicle users to understand the legality or risk involved in using them and to inform residents how to report incidents correctly.
Council officials are to engage with the Youth Service and others to develop educational workshops and diversionary activities in hotspot areas, with community groups encouraged to develop their own localised solutions for community safety/anti-social behaviour problems, with support available via the PCSP’s small grants scheme.
This scheme is currently open to applications which close at noon on 15th June 2026. Further information is available at Residents – Grant Funding – NMDDC or by contacting the PCSP office at [email protected].
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “It’s important the issue of unauthorised off-road vehicles using council land is addressed given the danger it poses to those who ride these machines and the public.
“A partnership approach is needed to address an issue which not only poses a threat to public safety but impacts on the environment.
“Prevention, education and enforcement is the best approach to ensure council land is safe for everyone who uses it.”
Ireland is, truly, a magical place. From its incomparable rolling hilly landscapes to its glorious cultural specificities, it is no surprise that a historically high number of people want to move there. There are plenty of reasons to visit Ireland, but none more meaningful than the personal – whether it’s a familial connection and fond memories of growing up there, or that it’s the place you found love with your future spouse. And maybe, just maybe, the latter is the reason for which you have intentions to get married there.
Here, then, let’s explore some of the more romantic places to get married across the Emerald Isle, as well as some of the more logistical decisions you’ll have to contend with to make getting married in Ireland possible. That includes legal considerations, locations, and, of course, the ring – all of which should come together to make for a meaningful, well-organised celebration rooted in your personal values.
Legal Requirements
First, let’s look at the legal aspect to this. Getting the easy one out of the way: Northern Ireland is a UK territory, which means if you’re a UK citizen, you can get married there without needing any special dispensations. However, if you want to get married in the Republic of Ireland, or you’re an Irish citizen wanting to get married in Northern Ireland, you’ll need to ensure you have some combination of: 3-12 months’ notice to a registrar or solemniser; the relevant visa; paperwork proving nationality; and a venue.
https://handt.co.uk/collections/engagement-rings
Budgeting, and Meaningful Choices
With the legalities managed, it’s time to think budget. Your options for where to get married across Ireland are widespread, and widespread across potential budget sizes too – so how much money do you have available for a venue? Get this straight before getting too excited about your shortlist of places to get married, and you won’t disappoint yourself!
Naturally, you’ll want to make savings where you can in order to make any dream venues possible – and luckily, these savings are readily made elsewhere. For instance, choosing a second-hand engagement ring can be a meaningful way to reflect shared values while managing your overall wedding costs.
Iconic Irish Wedding Venues
Ring aside, that’s the boring stuff out of the way; now, to figure out where best to get married in Ireland. With the right advance notice, the right permits and the right registrar, you could theoretically recognise your love for one another anywhere!
So, why not Ireland’s historic castles, which offer timeless romance and dramatic backdrops alike. Some, even offer all-in-one venue options, that simplify planning while delivering a memorable guest experience for your friends and family. Killeavy Castle Estate in Co Down, Northern Ireland is one of the best castle wedding venues in the entire UK and Ireland, let alone just on the Irish mainland…
Failing that, Ireland’s natural settings provide unforgettable outdoor and semi-outdoor wedding possibilities with strong visual appeal. All you need to do is pick the right time of year, for the right climate, to ensure a perfect day.
Ireland’s most romantic wedding destinations and planning tips
Rural crime crisis deepens in Northern Ireland as losses hit £2.2M
The Ulster Farmers’ Union has called for stronger intervention from the Department of Justice to combat escalating rural crime, following the publication of the NFU Mutual Rural Crime Report, which revealed a sharp increase in offences in Northern Ireland despite an overall decline across the UK.
According to the NFU Mutual report, rural crime cost Northern Ireland an estimated £2.2 million in 2025, marking a 24% increase on 2024 figures, while the overall UK-wide cost of rural crime fell by 6%.
UFU President John McLenaghan said, “These figures should serve as a serious wakeup call to policymakers.
“Rural crime poses a serious and escalating threat to farm families across Northern Ireland, with the latest figures showing a particularly alarming rise in offences here at a time when figures elsewhere across the UK are declining.
“Even more alarming is the extent to which incidents continue to go unreported, meaning the true scale of the problem is likely far greater than figures suggest.
“The PSNI can only allocate resources based on demand, and this can only be done when the true extent of the problem is reflected through accurate and timely reporting,” he said.
“We strongly urge all farmers and members of the rural community to report every incident to police, regardless of how minor it may appear.
“Farm businesses are already operating under intense financial pressure, and the additional burden created by theft, vandalism and other criminal activity further threatens profitability and long-term viability.
“The financial impact is immediate and severe, placing already stretched farm enterprises under further strain while undermining confidence and sustainability within the sector.
“It is important to recognise that the impact extends beyond immediate financial loss. There is a considerable emotional burden that comes with rural crime,” Mr McLenaghan continued.
“Alongside reporting incidents, practical measures such as documenting machinery, keeping photographic records, investing in tracking technology, and utilising initiatives like trailer marking and freeze branding livestock can play an important role in deterring crime and improving recovery rates.
“In parallel, policymakers need to ensure that the PSNI have the powers to tackle rural crime effectively on the ground, and the UFU is taking that message to Stormont.
“Rural crime must be stamped out.
“While increased investment and resources are essential, a coordinated approach between farmers and the PSNI is equally critical to ensure authorities fully understand the scale and severity of the issue,” added the president.
The UFU are members of the Rural Crime Partnership and remains actively engaged with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, politicians and key stakeholders, including DAERA and the Department of Justice, to ensure rural crime remains a priority issue.
