Saul Street arson attack was deliberate attempt to endanger life say police
Detectives are appealing for witnesses and information following an arson attack in Downpatrick in the early hours of this morning, Saturday, 28th March.
Detective Sergeant Lewis said: “We received a report at around 1.50am of a fire at a property in the Saul Street area.
“Officers attended the scene, where the front door of the house was on fire and a number of ground-floor windows smashed.
“Colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service were already present and subsequently extinguished the fire before it spread to any neighbouring properties.
“Colleagues from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service also attended. However, the two people who were in the property at the time of the attack, were able to exit the house safely and no injuries were reported.
“This was obviously a shock for them, however, and there was significant damage caused to their home.
“This is being treated as deliberate ignition and as arson with intent to endanger life.
“Our enquiries are ongoing and we would appeal to anyone with any information, including ring-doorbell, CCTV or other footage, to get in touch with us on the 101 number, quoting reference 80 of 28/03/26.
Sheep worrying affects the whole farming community says Cllr Alan Lewis
Newry Mourne and Down Slieve Croob DUP Councillor Alan Lewis has issued a timely reminder to dog owners about the serious consequences of livestock worrying as lambing season comes to an end and fields remain full of young lambs.
Councillor Lewis said that while lambing may be finishing, the risk to sheep and lambs remains high, particularly from dogs that are not kept under control.
He said: “Worrying livestock is a criminal offence, and it is far more common than many people realise. Even the most well-natured dog can become excited in the presence of sheep, and what may seem like harmless chasing or barking can cause real harm.
“For farmers, this is not just an inconvenience. It can have devastating consequences. Sheep can suffer stress, injury, miscarriage, or even death as a result of being chased. In many cases, lambs can be separated from their mothers, leading to further loss and distress.”
DUP Councillor Alan Lewis from the Slieve Croob area appeals to dog owners to keep their pets under control on a lead in the countryside during lambing season and just after it.
Across Northern Ireland, incidents of livestock worrying continue to place significant strain on the farming community.
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of our rural economy, supporting thousands of families and contributing hundreds of millions of pounds annually. Protecting livestock is therefore not only about animal welfare, but about supporting local livelihoods and sustaining rural communities.
Councillor Lewis added: “Our farmers work around the clock to care for their animals and maintain the countryside that so many people enjoy. The least we can do is show respect and take simple precautions when out walking.”
He is urging anyone walking near farmland to follow basic guidance: • Keep dogs on a lead at all times near livestock • Be aware of surroundings and signage • Give farmers and animals plenty of space
“Most dog owners act responsibly, and I thank them for that. However, it only takes one incident to cause serious damage. A little bit of care and awareness goes a long way in protecting our local farms at this critical time of year.
Cllr Lewis added that anyone who witnesses livestock worrying should report it to the appropriate authorities.
Ministers do a U-turn and welcome solution enabling Special School Summer Schemes to proceed
There is some good news for parents with Special Needs children following the U-turn by Minister after indicating there was to be no support for SEN children for summer schools.
There was a huge reaction against this decision and the Ministers with the help of the Education Authority managed to defuse the ongoing row that was building up.
The Education Minister and the Health Minister today confirmed that, following intensive engagement between both Departments and the Education Authority (EA), a solution has been secured that will allow special school summer schemes to proceed this year.
The Department of Health has confirmed that nursing support will be provided at every summer scheme location. This ensures that essential clinical oversight will be in place and offers a workable and timely way forward, enabling the schemes to operate as planned.
Special Education Needs children will now have summer schemes after Education Minister performs a U-turn.
Welcoming the announcement, Education Minister Paul Givan said: “Special school summer schemes play a vital role in supporting children and young people with complex needs, offering continuity of care and essential support for families.
“After intense and constructive engagement today, a solution has now been agreed.
“The Education Authority will now work closely with special school principals to urgently progress detailed planning and preparation for the delivery of the schemes.
“This was the outcome that we wanted for families, however the safety and well-being of children and young people was our concern. I am pleased that we have now been able to find a way forward.
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt added: “I am pleased to confirm that nursing support can now be made available at each special school summer scheme site.
“We will continue to work with all partners to develop and a robust, sustainable, year-round model of health care support for special schools.
“This long-term work aims to provide greater stability, strengthen provision and ensure that the needs of children with complex medical requirements are consistently and appropriately met.”
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McGrath says Ministers needed to work together to resolve delivery of special school summer schemes
SDLP Opposition Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath MLA has just one hour ago (at 5pm) called on the Ministers for health and education to work together and deliver special school summer schemes.
Subsequently the Education and Health MInister have managed to turn the situation round for the better. Great news for parents and children affected!
South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “People were rightly outraged at the decision to cancel summer schemes for special schools. This would have thrown many families’ summer plans into disarray, depriving them of much-needed respite and vulnerable young people of the opportunity to take part in these valuable schemes.
“The SDLP supported the petition to recall the Assembly next week, but families and people with special educational needs (SEN) didn’t need MLAs talking about this at Stormont – they needed action from the Executive, the and to ensure the necessary nursing staff are in place and allow these schemes to go ahead.
“We cannot continue with a situation where Executive parties accept no responsibility and pretend they do not have power in their hands. Instead of criticising from the sidelines, Sinn Féin and the Alliance Party should clarify if their representatives on the Education Authority board knew about this decision.
“The Ministers for Education and Health have now worked together to find a solution. Political grandstanding was not necessary.”
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Education Minister’s initial failure to deliver schemes for children in special schools is ‘unacceptable’ says Mason
Sinn Féin South Down MLA Cathy Mason has slammed the DUP Education Minister for failing to deliver summer schemes for children in special schools this summer and reversing this decision.
The South Down MLA said: “It was unacceptable that the Health and Education Ministers could not come up with a solution to continue this much-needed provision this summer.
“These special school summer schemes, such as those in Knockevin and Ardmore, are a lifeline for many families, providing vital respite and important support for children with complex needs.
“In recent days we have seen the Education Minister attempt to deflect from his failings in improving the education system, instead he should be focused on protecting the most vulnerable in our society.”
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Burrows welcomes confirmation that Special School summer schemes will go ahead
Ulster Unionist Party Leader and Education spokesperson Jon Burrows MLA has welcomed confirmation that Special School summer schemes will go ahead.
Jon Burrows MLA said: “I warmly welcome the confirmation from both the Ministers of Health and Education that the Summer Schemes at Special Schools will go ahead this summer. These schemes provide vital structure and respite for children with complex additional needs and their families, and their continuation is absolutely the right outcome.
“Today I met with officials from the Education Authority to press for an urgent resolution and made clear the imperative of finding solutions immediately. I know from direct engagement that our Health Minister has been working hard to get this issue resolved following the EA’s distressing announcement yesterday.
“However, this situation should never have arisen in the first place.
“The EA’s decision to announce the cancellation of these schemes on a Thursday, just before the Easter recess, was completely unnecessary and caused avoidable distress and uncertainty for families and schools.
“This episode highlights the pressing need for a comprehensive review of the EA’s workforce arrangements and training, to ensure we have adequately trained staff available to support our most vulnerable children throughout the academic year, including during the summer period. Their request for nurses to support SEN summer schemes clearly stems from issues within their current staffing model.
“I have therefore written to the Education Minister to formally raise this matter and to call for action on long-term planning in this area.
“The Ulster Unionist Party will continue to stand up for children with special educational needs and their families. We must learn from this episode and put in place the proper systems to ensure such uncertainty is never repeated.”
From addiction to recovery… Emma Marks is now two years sober thanks to the support of Ward 15 staff
After years of struggling with addiction, Emma Lynch is now marking more than two years in recovery, re-building her life with the support of the South Eastern Trust’s Ward 15, a specialist in-patient addiction unit based at Downshire Hospital in Downpatrick.
35-year-old Emma has faced addiction since a young age.
Following a three-week stay on the ward, Emma has spoken about the positive impact the service has had in supporting her ongoing rehabilitation.
Emma Lynch said: “I had been suffering with addiction for 20 years on and off, just to the point where it was just too much.
“The Doctor referred me to Bernagh House and it was very much me wanting to put in the work and go, as a patient, into Ward 15, you cannot do it on your own.
At Ward 15 (Shimna House are (l-r) South Eastern Trust Senior Nursing Assistant, Declan Hampton; South Eastern Trust Health Development Specialist in Alcohol and Drugs, Ed Sipler; Occupational Therapist, Anna Milligan; and Emma Lynch now two years in recovery from addiction.
During her time on the ward, Emma completed a detox programme and participated in a range of sessions focused on understanding addiction. With the support and guidance of staff, she also developed a ‘Sober Living Plan’ to help maintain her recovery after discharge.
“The 4th March 2024 was my first day sober. I really have continued on. I go to recovery meetings and take part in the Recovery Shed, there is a whole range of different groups that I attend.
“The staff here are absolutely amazing. There are staff who have a history of addiction and when they are talking to you, helping you, they do know what they are talking about. They are so compassionate and there is no judgement.”
Senior Nursing Assistant, Declan Hampton who works on Ward 15, described the rewarding nature of supporting patients through their recovery. He said: “Every day is different. Being here is such a good opportunity for me to learn.
“There are people walking through the doors as one person and coming out, after their three weeks, as another. To see that is very rewarding.”
Occupational Therapist, Anna Milligan, also part of the Ward 15 Team, highlighted the importance of helping patients build meaningful lives beyond addiction. “The essence of Occupational Therapy is to help people do the things that they want to and are able to live a meaningful life.”
“Part of my role is to break down barriers for the individual. We work together to create a Sober Living Plan which highlights what they are going to do once they leave the ward.
“It gives structure and purpose to their day and supports them to live a life they enjoy. For some people, being in recovery can feel quite restrictive, my role is to help people discover a new life for themselves.”
Shimna House in Downpatrick.
With over 30 years’ experience, South Eastern Trust, Health Development Specialist in Alcohol and Drugs, Ed Sipler, emphasised the importance of a team approach in supporting recovery.
Ed said: “We work as part of a Multi-Disciplinary Team to help people gain control of their lives, to move away from alcohol and drugs, improve their self-esteem and strengthen their coping skills.
“I often ask patients as they prepare to leave after three weeks, ‘What are you walking out of here with, that you did not have when you walked in?’
“They are leaving with self-respect, a sense of control and a toolbox of skills they can use to stay sober. Whether they continue to use that tool box, that is the key.”
Mathison Welcomes “Friday Folk” Group to Parliament Buildings
Strangford MLA Nick Mathison has welcomed members of the “Friday Folk” group to Parliament Buildings, highlighting the important role the weekly gathering plays in providing social connection and support for retired women in the Crossgar area.
The group, which meets regularly to stay connected and organise visits to places of interest, enjoyed a tour of Parliament Buildings and took the opportunity to raise issues of concern with their local MLA during the visit.
They were accompanied on the visit by Rowallane Alliance Cllr David Lee-Surginor who has been a long-standing supporter of the group.
Cllr David Lee-Sirginor (left) with Nick Mathison MLA and ladies from the Friday Folk at Parliament Buildings.
Speaking afterwards, Nick Mathison MLA said: “I was delighted to welcome the Friday Folk group to Parliament Buildings and to spend time with such an engaged and friendly group of women.
“It’s clear how valuable this weekly get-together is in bringing people together and providing a strong sense of connection.
“The group certainly came well prepared with thoughtful questions, which made for a really worthwhile and engaging discussion. I hope they enjoyed their visit, and I look forward to keeping in touch.”
Councillor David Lee-Surginor added: “It was a pleasure to accompany the Friday Folk group on their visit.
“Groups like this make a real difference in helping people stay connected and active, and it was great to see everyone enjoying the tour and the opportunity to engage directly with the Assembly.
“Their enthusiasm and interest made it a very worthwhile visit.”
Mr Mathison added that initiatives like Friday Folk play an important role in supporting well-being and helping people stay active and connected within their local community.
Council Continues Support for Home 2 Hospital initiative
Newry Mourne and Down District Council is supporting the expansion of a key volunteer-led service for older people and their families designed to ensure they don’t miss vital hospital appointments.
The Council helps finance the Home 2 Hospital volunteer driver scheme which is currently available to residents in the Slieve Gullion and Mournes District Electoral Areas (DEAs). But there are plans to expand it to include Crotlieve DEA.
Between April 2025 and January this year, the service provided 539 return journeys for 359 service users. With 368 trips for residents in the Mournes DEA and 171 for those in Slieve Gullion.
Thirteen volunteer drivers who deliver the service transported people to 21 different healthcare settings during this period including South Tyrone, Belfast and Downpatrick.
Home 2 Hospital service user Mary Theresa Garvey (centre) from Cullyhanna, with Slieve Gullion District Electoral Area (DEA) volunteer driver Noel Evans and Paula McCracken, Home 2 Hospital service co-ordinator from Bolster Community.
Craigavon Area Hospital was the most visited destination with 92 journeys, with visits to the City, Royal Victoria and Musgrave Park hospitals in Belfast 52, 48 and 22 respectively.
At a meeting of Newry Mourne and Down District Council’s Sustainability and Environment Committee on 18 March, it was agreed to continue supporting the lifeline service in the Slieve Gullion and Mournes DEAs and pilot a new scheme in Crotlieve DEA from the start of this September, running until March next year. The potential cost of delivering the scheme across three DEAs is £45,000.
The Committee also agreed to seek expressions of interest from suitable community or volunteer organisations to administer the schemes. Both recommendations have to be endorsed by the full Council when it meets in April.
Home 2 Hospital volunteer driver Margaret Carragher from Crossmaglen who started as a volunteer driver with Bolster Community in December 2021.
Given the major difficulty elderly people in rural areas experience when it comes attending hospital appointments in Craigavon, Belfast and other areas, the Council has been supporting the Home 2 Hospital scheme for a number of years.
The Council recognises the benefit of continuing to support the initiative to ensure the needs of people in South Armagh and The Mournes are met, explaining that a recent community consultation in Crotlieve DEA indicated that one fifth of the population – 6,018 people – are aged 65 and over.
Eighty per cent of those surveyed said they would use the Home 2 Hospital volunteer driver service, with 67% reporting issues using public transport to attended medical appointments.
Over half those who participated in the consultation said they previously missed a hospital appointment due to transport issues, with 72% of residents in Crotlieve living alone and experiencing social isolation.
Residents revealed the cost of a one-way taxi journey to Craigavon Hospital ranged between £43 and £50, with friends and family rarely able to assist due a range of issues including age, work or caring responsibilities and non-emergency ambulances not readily available and subject to long delays.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “This crucially important Home 2 Hospital service provides essential journeys for elderly and isolated residents who might otherwise struggle to access healthcare.
“Many rely heavily on volunteer drivers, with access to public transport often one of the biggest barriers to attending hospital appointments. This important scheme ensures equal access to healthcare, regardless of where you live.”
The Chairperson added: “The lifeline service helps people maintain independence, stay connected and receive timely medical care when they need it.
“I have no doubt the service will continue to go from strength to strength.
Pedestrian safety improvements outside Spa Primary School welcomes by Harry Harvey MLA and Cllr Alan Lewis
Slieve Croob DUP Councillor Alan Lewis and Harry Harvey MLA have welcomed recent improvements to pedestrian safety at Spa Primary School following the delivery of a new footpath designed to support safer pick up and drop off arrangements.
The representatives said they were pleased to have worked to help facilitate the project which provides a practical improvement for pupils, parents and staff accessing the school.
Councillor Lewis said: “This is a simple but important piece of infrastructure that will make a real difference on the ground. Rural schools often face additional challenges when it comes to traffic and access, so it is vital that we continue to invest in measures that improve safety for everyone using these roads.”
Harry Harvey MLA said: “It is encouraging to see practical improvements delivered that directly benefit families and the wider school community. Supporting our rural schools remains a key priority, and this is a positive step forward.”
(l-r) DUP MLA Harry Harvey with Slieve Croob Councillor Alan Lewis outside Spa Primary School.
Both representatives also used the opportunity to remind drivers of their responsibilities around schools, particularly at busy pick up and drop off times.
Councillor Lewis added: “I would urge all drivers to park sensibly and considerately, and to be mindful of children and families moving around the area. A moment’s care can prevent a serious incident.”
He further highlighted ongoing concerns around vehicle speeds through Spa village, noting continued engagement with the PSNI to ensure enforcement and visibility.
“I have been working with the police over a sustained period to ensure there are visible speed checks in Spa village.
“This is about reinforcing the message that speed limits are there for a reason, particularly in areas where children and families are present.”
Councillor Lewis also added that recent social media activity undermines these efforts.
“I have seen posts online where drivers are warning others when speed enforcement is in place. That is not helpful and does nothing to address the underlying issue.
“The aim of enforcement is not to catch people out, but to educate and encourage safer driving behaviour. Sharing warnings simply defeats that purpose.
“Keeping our rural schools safe is a shared responsibility.
“Infrastructure improvements, responsible parking and sensible driving all play a part. We will continue to work with all relevant agencies to support safer conditions in Spa and across the wider Slieve Croob area.”
Stand Strong event at Ballymote Centre in Downpatrick draws 70 people supporting the EVAWG campaign
Around 70 people attended the Stand Strong Together event at the Ballymote Centre in Downpatrick in support of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) campaign.
Organised by the Downpatrick, Rowallane and Slieve Croob District Electoral Areas (DEAs), those in attendance heard statistics from Belfast Women’s Aid on the number of women and girls experiencing domestic abuse in Northern Ireland.
With Lucie Cullinane (front centre) and Erin Toner (front right) from the charity, and Ballymote Centre manager Danielle Curran (front left), are (from left), Jacki Urey (Newry, Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership), Nicola Whyte (Rowallane DEA coordinator), PSNI Constable Simon Law (East Down Neighbourhood Policing Team), Raymond Hamilton (NMDDC), Constable Alan Silcock (East Down Neighbourhood Policing Team), Katrina Hynds (Downpatrick DEA coordinator), Priscilla McAlinden (Slieve Croob DEA coordinator) and Aoibheann Degans (Newry, Mourne and Down PCSP). Event attendees were also provided with information from the PSNI and PCSP and details about the Downpatrick Domestic Abuse One Stop Shop. (Photos courtesy of the Rowallane, Slioeve Croob and Downpatriock DEAs.).
Policing and Community Safety Partnership Officer Jacki Urey (centre) with Ballymote Women’s Group members Sheila Heron (left) and Joan Sloan at the Stand Strong Together event.
Downpatrick women Hetty McShane, Marian Hunsdale, June McCoubrey and Maeve Cull at the Stand Strong Together event held at the Ballymote Centre.
Members of Ballykinlar Forever Young Club members at the Stand Strong Together event held at the Ballymote Centre.
Downpatrick Racecourse: Preview and Tips for Sunday’s Seven-Race Meeting
There’s more National Hunt racing action on at Downpatrick Racecourse this Sunday with seven races on the card, featuring the Ulster National alongside two further steeplechases and four races over hurdles.
Read on for a preview of and tips for the Downpatrick card, brought to you by Betano, who provide all the latest horse racing odds.
We begin with a maiden hurdle run over two miles and six furlongs (2.07). Robertjames and Love Safari are the only newcomers in the field of 10, while Gordon Elliott’s He Can’t Dance brings the best current form, having placed on each of his five starts so far, and wears blinkers for the first time here. Robertjames, though, could be a danger on debut for Willie Mullins.
Next is a handicap hurdle over the same trip (2.42). Gavin Cromwell’s Let’s Go Mans won last time out and is in first-time cheekpieces today, so still appeals, while stablemate Deanery Charlie looks to be improving also and could run a good race off his current mark. Coppola, though, looks to be the one to beat after a close second at Down Royal last time.
Race three is a handicap hurdle over two and a quarter miles (3.17). Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy should have another good chance here with Dairy Force, who will be happier on this sounder surface after a fair run at Fairyhouse last time for fourth of 12 on testing going. Noel Kelly’s Gamigin looks to be on a more competitive mark now too and could go well, similarly to Brave Soldier, who might be capable of surprising with a five-pound claimer taking the ride.
The fourth race is a two and three quarter mile handicap hurdle (3.52). Another Gordon Elliott horse, Themanintheboots, is down two pounds from his last starting mark and has five pounds in hand from his rider too. John Storey could also be in line for a big run, stepping slightly down in trip this time with a five-pound claimer taking the ride.
Our feature is next; the three and a half mile Ulster National (4.27). Dorans Law could go well here, but returns today after a lengthy break and might prefer better going too. Ontheropes could spring back to better form today, having run over hurdles lately and now reverts back to chasing on a much reduced mark. Fishery Lane ought to be a player too.
Second to last is a beginners’ chase over two and a half miles (5.00). Dee’s Lady comes here in good form after winning nicely at Leopardstown last time, and has first-time cheekpieces on to keep her sharp. Gordon Elliott’s Find A Fortune, though, is given a helping hand by the employ of five-pound claimer Josh Williamson and can likely win this given the weight.
Last of all is a maiden hunters chase (5.30). West Of Idaho seeks a hat-trick here and could achieve it with a seven-pound claimer on board, while Cebu City also looks to be a danger after a change of scene and three recent placings.
Rugby coverage suffers because of geo-blocking by RTE says Chris Hazzard MP
Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard has called on the Irish government to end the geo-blocking of RTÉ content from viewers in the North.
Still seas apart: South Down MP Chris Hazzard says Sinn Féin will introduce a bill to the Dáil in the ROI to stop geo-blocking in the North by RTE.
The South Down MP said: “It is wrong that so many people in the North will be unable to watch our national team free to air on RTÉ because it is geo-blocked.
“The blocking of content on RTÉ from viewers in the North is scandalous and becomes even sharper during these big national moments.
“This is Ireland’s biggest international soccer match in years and viewers in the North are locked out from watching it on the national broadcaster.
“Sinn Féin is bringing forward legislation in the Dáil which would ensure equal access to services across the whole island of Ireland.
“Critically, it would require the Irish government and Coimisiún na Meán to overcome licensing barriers to all-Ireland service in broadcast media.
“The Irish government must act urgently to end the exclusion of citizens in the North.”
You can check what coverage RTE has provided of the match at its pre-match stages and post-match playbacks on RTE on this link to the RTE website: CHECK HERE
There was no real time cover in the North on RTE.
Further details of coverage in ROI, in UK and internationally : CLICK HERE.
