Hanlon Welcomes Council Delamont Decision

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Hanlon Welcomes Council Delamont Decision

Hanlon Welcomes Council Action to Protect Delamont Caravan Park

Sinn Féin Councillor Oonagh Hanlon has welcomed the decision by Newry Mourne, and Down District Council’s Strategy, Policy, and Resources Committee to take over the management of the caravan site at Delamont Country Park for the 2026 summer season.

The decision, taken at committee on March 12th, will see the Council operate the facility from June through to the end of September following the expiry of the previous lease, subject to ratification at the next full council meeting.

Councillor Oonagh Hanlon, Chair of the Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee, has welcomed the council decision to manage the Delamont Park caravan park this summer.

As Chair of the Strategy, Policy, and Resources Committee, Councillor Hanlon said: “This is a positive and proactive decision by the Council to protect a much-valued local facility and ensure it remains open and accessible to families and visitors over our busy summer months.

“Delamont Country Park is a key tourism asset for our district, attracting tens of thousands of people every year, and it is vital that we continue to invest in and maximise its potential for the benefit of our local community and economy.

“By stepping in to manage the caravan park this summer, the council is delivering practical solutions to protect local tourism and support local businesses.

“This approach also allows us to gather important information on demand and usage, which will help inform future decisions around the long-term management and development of the site.

“The caravan park plays an important role in the overall visitor experience at Delamont, and I am pleased that families will continue to have the opportunity to stay and enjoy everything the park and surrounding area have to offer.”

The Downpatrick DEA Councillor added that the facility will be marketed alongside Council-run sites at Castlewellan and Kilbroney using the existing booking system, ensuring ease of access for visitors.

“Council officials will report back following the summer season, and that will help shape a long-term, sustainable approach to the future management of the caravan park.”

Economy Minister Ups Post-Grad Loans By 54%

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Economy Minister Ups Post-Grad Loans By 54%

Economy Minister announces 54% increase to post-graduate loan support

Post-graduate students will have access to significantly higher tuition fee loans of up to £10,000, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced.

At present post-graduate students from the North can access a maximum post-graduate Tuition Fee Loan of £6,500. The average post-graduate course costs £7,900.

From 2026/27, this will rise by 54% to £10,000, ensuring that more students are able to cover the cost of their tuition fees.

Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibaldsaid said: “Despite the financial pressures my Department is under, I’m determined to keep education as affordable as possible.

Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Economy Ministedr,
Dr Caoimhe Archibald has increased the amount for the post-graduate student loans.

“To that end my Department has kept student fees at half the level of Britain and previously increased student maintenance loans by 20%.

“Today I am announcing a 54% increase in loans for Postgraduate students. This will enable more students to undertake postgraduate study and gain the higher-level skills that are vital for the growth and productivity of our economy.”

Ben Friel, President of NUS-USI, said: “Making higher education more accessible and affordable can only ever be a positive, for students, for universities and for Northern Ireland.

“Today’s announcement will be welcome relief to many students who strive to pursue professions which require a post-graduate degree but may have been fearful due to experiencing the financial pressures of completing their under-graduate course.

“Finance should never be a barrier to those who are ambitious and capable of furthering their education no matter the level of study.

“As more students are able to access postgraduate courses, it is also important that they are supported with the cost of living while studying.

“We look forward to engaging with the Department during the upcoming Higher Education Funding Review to ensure students have the support they need to succeed.”

The changes follow a recent public consultation.

The public consultation documents are available on the Department’s website at:

www.economy-ni.gov.uk/news/minister-proposes-increase-postgraduate-tuition-fees-loans

According to HESA data there are around 10k post-graduate (taught) students from Northern Ireland studying at UK universities each year.

The next review of pos-graduate Tuition Fee Loans will be carried out in three years.

A 20% increase in maximum student maintenance loans was delivered for the 2025/26 academic year.

TB Survivor Speaks Out About His Experience

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TB Survivor Speaks Out About His Experience

TB Survivor chats about his experience and remarkable recovery from this potentially lethal disease and calls for more awareness about it

Andy Spence from Glenavy has shared his challenging journey after being diagnosed with Tuberculosis (TB) and has praised the care and support he received from staff across the South Eastern HSC Trust.

The Trust which extends out 11 miles past Lisburn to Glenavy provided months of intensive treatment for the 55-year-old after receiving his diagnosis in June 2025. He had been experiencing symptoms.

TB is an infection caused by bacteria. It mainly affects the lungs, but it can affect any part of the body, including lymph nodes, bones and the brain where it can cause Meningitis. The disease spreads through the air when a person with TB in their lungs or throat coughs or sneezes.

Symptoms include a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, a high temperature or drenching night sweats, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss and extreme tiredness.

Andy explained how he was referred to a Specialist Doctor in the Ulster Hospital, where an x-ray revealed a shadow on his lung.

He said: “I was then sent for further tests on my lymph nodes which showed cells linked to TB. At that stage, I did not realise what lay ahead, but it has been a long road to recovery.”

TB survivor, Andy Spence from Glenavy, with South Eastern HSC Trust, TB Prevention Nurse Amanda McCormack after he got through his course of antibiotics and screening.

Reflecting on the severity of his illness, Andy added: “My mobility went to zero. My partner, Marian, had to help me out of bed and get me dressed.”

Andy was prescribed a course of strong antibiotics and followed medical advice closely throughout his treatment.

“I cannot speak highly enough of the hospital teams, both in the Belfast Trust and South Eastern HSC Trust, who looked after me.

“There is no point going through something like this and not showing your gratitude. I am feeling so much better now and I am very thankful.”

Andy said he wanted to share his experience to help raise awareness of TB and encourage others to seek medical advice if they experience symptoms.

He also paid tribute to the South Eastern Trust Nursing Team. “They treated me, reassured me and looked after me. I could phone the Nurses whenever I needed to and that support meant a lot. I have come a long way from where I was.”

South Eastern HSC Trust, TB Prevention Nurse Amanda McCormack, emphasised that TB is preventable and curable. She said: “Timely and accurate detection and management of TB improves outcomes for patients and helps reduce onward transmission.

“TB can affect any part of the body. Signs of active TB include a cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood, drenching night sweats, weight loss and swollen lumps anywhere on the body.

“One in four people would have ‘Sleeping TB’, which is not infectious.

“TB is not a disease linked to hygiene or lifestyle, it can affect anyone. The condition is fully treatable when patients take their medication as prescribed and complete their course of treatment, as Andy has done. Prevention is key.”

Community Advice Coming To Ballynahinch

Jim Masson
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Community Advice Coming To Ballynahinch

An outreach office for Community Advice will operate from the Ballynahinch Community Centre

A new outreach advice service will be delivered at Ballynahinch Community Centre coming soon.

This service aims to provide local residents with free, confidential, independent and impartial advice and support on a range of issues, including benefits, debt, housing, employment, consumer issues etc.

Community Advice Newry Mourne and Down CEO, Kellie Murray, said: “The outreach will run on the last Tuesday of each month from 12.30-3.30pm in Ballynahinch Community Centre beginning Tuesday 31st March 2026.

“Our goal is to ensure that people in the Ballynahinch area can access high-quality advice within their own community.”

Kellie added: “We would greatly appreciate any support local people can offer in helping to promote this service. In particular, it would be very helpful if you could:

  • Share this information through your social media channels or newsletters
  • Display or circulate the attached poster
  • Inform any local groups or constituents who may benefit.

“If you would like any further information, a meeting or if you are interested in attending or visiting the service, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

“We thank you in anticipation for your continued support for local community initiatives.”

Check out the NMD Citizen’s Advice website HERE.

Citizen’s Advice Facebook Page HERE

When Should You Speak To A Solicitor In Stockport?

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When Should You Speak To A Solicitor In Stockport?

Many people only consider contacting a solicitor when a situation becomes urgent. In reality, the earlier you seek legal advice, the more options you are likely to have. Whether the issue relates to your family, property, business, or personal circumstances, timely guidance from experienced Solicitors in Stockport can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary stress.

Legal matters rarely improve through delay. Understanding when to act can protect both your finances and your future.

Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm on Unsplash

When Facing Family Law Issues

Family matters are often emotionally charged and complex. If you are separating from a partner, considering divorce, or struggling to agree arrangements for children, early legal advice is essential.

A solicitor can explain your rights regarding property, finances, and parental responsibility. Many people make informal agreements without understanding the long-term consequences, particularly where pensions, property ownership, or business interests are involved. Obtaining advice at the outset can prevent costly disputes later.

Legal support is also important in situations involving domestic abuse, urgent child arrangements, or financial control. Acting quickly ensures protective measures can be put in place where necessary.

When Buying, Selling or Transferring Property

Conveyancing is one of the most common reasons people contact a solicitor. Buying or selling a home involves legally binding contracts, strict deadlines, and significant financial commitments. Even what appears to be a straightforward transaction can become complicated due to title issues, boundary disputes, leasehold terms, or mortgage conditions.

Engaging Solicitors in Stockport at the start of the process ensures that contracts are reviewed carefully, searches are conducted properly, and your interests are protected throughout. Early instruction also helps avoid delays that can jeopardise a transaction.

Property transfers between family members, remortgaging, and equity release arrangements also require professional advice to ensure legal compliance and financial clarity.

When Planning for the Future or Resolving Disputes

Legal advice is not only for times of crisis. Many people speak to a solicitor when preparing a will, arranging lasting powers of attorney, or administering an estate following the death of a loved one. Proper estate planning provides certainty and reduces the risk of family disputes.

Similarly, if you are involved in a dispute, whether with an employer, tenant, landlord, neighbour, or business partner, obtaining early advice can often lead to quicker and more cost-effective resolutions. A solicitor can assess the strength of your position, advise on negotiation or mediation, and represent you if court proceedings become necessary.

Delaying action in dispute matters can weaken your position, particularly where limitation periods apply.

Conclusion

There is no single “right moment” to seek legal advice, but acting early is almost always beneficial. If a situation has legal, financial, or personal consequences, speaking to experienced Solicitors in Stockport can provide clarity, protect your interests, and give you confidence in your next steps.

Legal support is not simply about resolving problems, it is about preventing them.

Downpartick NIFRS Put Out Old Dole Office Fire

Jim Masson
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Downpartick NIFRS Put Out Old Dole Office Fire

Vandals have set fire once again to the old Social Security Offices on Mount Crescent in Downpatrick

Just before 5pm on Wednesday 18th March 2026, the Downpatrick fire crew were called out to extinguish a fire at the former social security agency premises located at Mount Crescent in Downpatrick.

There have been previous fires and acts of vandalism on a regular basis at the site through the past year.

The situation is made wordse by people dumpong inflamable materials over the gates of the premises and a substantial amount of rubbish has now built up and is a further fire hazzard. It would need cleaned out to be made safe and prevent vermin from infesting the area.

A fire tender pictured at the former Social Security Offices in Downpatrick. Can bureaucracy move quickly enough before the site needs to be fully demolished ? (Photos: Jim Masson/DownNews©.)
At the front gate of the former SSA offices in Downpatrick. Piles of rubbish dumped now block the entrance gateway.

The building is made mostly of brick and the structure is sound. It could be converted into flats or space for local enterprises and start-ups.

There is a danger that the arsonists look to other areas across the street. The former Down High School, a substantial property, is lying vacant and so far has not been attacked by vandals or arsonists.

Down News has asked the Department of Education what the plans are for the site and building, and also the Department of Communities regarding the former SSA building.

An open gate and rubbish piling up.

These vacant sites could be turned into assets in a number of ways for the Downpatrick community given the bureaucratic and political will.

So, once again this fire has prompted the begging of a question: what should happen to these vacant properties before they are totally ruined and beyond repair and need to be demolished ?

Fire requires 3 elements to occur: fuel, oxygen and heat. The rubbish around the property is a huge issue and needs to be addressed.

A former NIFRS senior officer said to Down News that if a child was trapped in a smoke-filled building, just one lung-full of smoke could prove fatal. So parents are asked to look after the children and discourage this sort of behaviour.

A front of the building view.
A rear view of the building showing broken and boarded up windows.
A building under pressure in Downpatrick from vandals and arsonists.

Oil And Gas Prices Go Through The Roof

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Oil And Gas Prices Go Through The Roof

South Down MP Speaks Out About The UK Government’s Response To Supporting The Poor And Vulnerable In The Fuel Crisis

• Urgent call for action as rising oil and gas costs hit households and businesses

• Assembly Ministers express deep concerns over fuel price rises.

South Down MP Chris Hazzard has called on the UK government to improve its support to poor and vulnerable people during the fuel crisis.

British government’s home heating oil funding ‘an insult to struggling families’ – Hazzard

Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard has said the funding announced by the British government for those reliant on home heating oil ‘doesn’t even touch the surface’ of the rising costs people are facing.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced today a £17 million support package for households here as energy prices rise, which would amount to just £34 per household.

“The funding announced by Keir Starmer doesn’t even touch the surface of the rising costs people are facing, and is frankly an insult to struggling families” said the South Down MP.

“The reckless war in the Middle East, aided and abetted by the British government, has caused energy prices to skyrocket, with workers, families and businesses left to pay the price.

“If the British government is serious about supporting people who are struggling, a proper financial support package must be brought forward now.

“Sinn Féin will continue to press Keir Starmer and his government for proper support for all families struggling with rising energy bills.”

Archibald warns British Government on pressures on households in the North following gas and fuel cost rises

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has written to the British Government warning that the rapid rise in global oil and natural gas prices is now placing significant pressure on households and businesses across the North.

It comes as consumers using heating oil saw prices rise over 80% in less than a week.

The Minister’s call for action builds on her engagement last week with her Irish and British Government counterparts, business, consumer, and industry stakeholders, on the stark price rises in petrol, diesel and heating oil.

In writing to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero Minister, Michael Shanks MP, Minister Archibald expressed deep concern about the impact on local people, particularly on lower income families, vulnerable consumers, and businesses, already burdened by the rising cost of living.

Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Economy Ministedr,
Economy MInister Dr Caoimhe Archibald concerned at pressures on housholds following the fuel crisis.

The Minister said: “Unprecedented price spikes, following the Israeli/US attack on Iran, are being felt by local homes and businesses across the north.

“With so many people already struggling with the cost of living, the speed and scale of these increases risk causing real hardship and need to be met with support from the British Government like that made available following the Ukraine invasion.”

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the British Government introduced a series of financial support schemes to shield consumers and businesses from the extreme price volatility including reducing unit costs for domestic electricity and gas customers and targeted wholesale energy price discounts to businesses and the public sector.

The Minister added: “These measures made a real difference during the last energy crisis. Given the scale of the current price shock, it is essential that similar options are examined urgently. Households and businesses here must not be left to bear the brunt of these costs.”

The Minister remains in active engagement with the Irish and British Governments, the Utility Regulator, and industry stakeholders as the situation develops.

O’Dowd Says Any support on heating costs must be meaningful and include oil customers

Finance Minister John O’Dowd has said any support the Chancellor announces for households facing rising energy costs must be meaningful and must fully include families who rely on home heating oil.

The Minister said: “Many households are already under significant financial pressure and the sharp increase in heating oil costs is causing real concern, particularly for families and older people who depend on oil to heat their homes.

“I welcome the Chancellor’s acknowledgement that support is needed. However, that support must be meaningful, timely and delivered in a way which supports oil-fired central heating customers as well as other consumers.

Finance Minister John O’Dowd says help from the UK government must be ‘meaningful’ to support families who depend on home heating oil.

“In the North, a very significant number of households rely on heating oil. Any package which fails to properly recognise that reality will leave many families exposed at a time when they can least afford it.

“I have already written to the Treasury on this matter and will be seeking further clarification on the detail of the support being proposed, including how it will apply to households here.

“It is important that any intervention reflects the particular circumstances of those who are not protected by the energy price cap and who are especially vulnerable to sudden spikes in global oil prices.

“People need certainty that support will be fair, accessible and sufficient to make a real difference.”

Mr O’Dowd said he would continue to press for measures that recognise the high level of dependence on home heating oil and protect households from further cost of living pressures.

Downe Urgent Care Closed On St Patrick Day

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Downe Urgent Care Closed On St Patrick Day

Down Community Health Committee and South Down MP Chris Hazzard concerned over Downe Urgent Care closure on St Patrick’s Day

A row is brewing over the closure of the Downe Hospital Urgent Care unit on St Patrick’s Day and South Down MP CHris Hazzard has backed the Down Community Health Committee in its call for an ‘investigation’.

The Down Community Health Committee (DCHC) has called on Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, to instruct his Department officials to investigate the failure of the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust to deliver an Urgent Care service, other than a Minor Injury service , at the Downe Hospital in Downpatrick, on St Patrick’s Day, a day when tens of thousands of visitors stream into the area.

Down Community Health Care member Aidan Harris and Vice Chair Anne Trainor with Chairman Eamonn McGrady pictured just the petition launch in 2025 in the St Patrick Centre for a 24/7 A&E at the Downe Hospital. There are concerns as to why the Urgent Care at the Downe Hospital was not open on St Patrick’s Day. (Photos: Jim Masson/DownNews©).

A DCHC spokesperson speaking on behalf of the local community said: “The abject failure to deliver has caused understandable outrage for the people of the area, particularly when full normal service is offered at the Lagan Valley Hospital, so close to Belfast and at Belfast’s Ulster Hospital.

“The Trust has blamed staff illness for their failure to deliver locally but their failure to redeploy staff from their other facilities raises fundamental questions about their contingency planning.

“Coming only weeks after thousands of local people signed a petition for the restoration of a 24/7 emergency department at the Downe, local hospital campaigners are furious.

“The local community across East Down, including not just Newcastle and Downpatrick, but the vast rural area from Strangford to Kilkeel to Ballynahinch, Saintfield and beyond, has long demanded this service but their demands have fallen on deaf ears.

“We call on the South Eastern Trust to humbly apologise for this appalling failure, to explain why staff were not redeployed to Downpatrick from other facilities and to gave a categorical assurance, that there will be no repeat of this situation,” the spokesperson said.

South Down MP Chris Hazzard is concerned at the closure of the Downe Hospital Urgent Care unit in Downpatrick on St Patrick’s Day.

Hazzard raises serious concerns over Downe Hospital service reductions

South Down Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard has raised serious concerns with the South Eastern Health Trust this evening following the announcement that services at the Downe Hospital are to be reduced on St Patrick’s Day.

The South Down MP described the move as a failure in contingency planning that undermines the rights of rural patients to access essential healthcare.

Mr Hazard said: “St Patrick’s Day is one of the busiest days of the year for Downpatrick. To see a reduction in services at the Downe Hospital during a public holiday again raises serious questions regarding the rights of rural patients to access healthcare.

“Whilst I understand the challenges of staff illnesses, this situation highlights a lack of robust contingency planning.

“I have raised a number of immediate issues with the Trust leadership that must be addressed including adequate staffing during this high pressure event, a robust holiday strategy to prepare for the influx of visitors and ensuring The Downe is treated as a vital hub and not a service that can be scaled back when pressured arise. 

“Patients and our hard-working health staff deserve a system that is resilient enough to handle challenges without compromising care on such a busy day.

“The Trust needs to take immediate, proactive steps to ensure the Downe remains fully operational for everyone who needs it.”

Quinn Estate Agency Group Train For JAM Card

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Quinn Estate Agency Group Train For JAM Card

Quinn Group Breaks New Ground as NI’s First JAM Card Trained Estate Agency

Quinn Estate Agents has officially launched a new partnership with JAM Card and NOW Group, becoming the first estate agency in Northern Ireland to become JAM Card friendly,.

Managing Director Jonathan Quinn said that this reinforces our commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that all clients feel welcome and supported across our four branches.

The partnership sees the County Down based property group roll out JAM Card training to all team members across its Ballynahinch, Banbridge, Downpatrick and Carryduff offices, embedding greater awareness and understanding of hidden disabilities and communication barriers throughout the organisation.

Pictured (l-r) at Quinn Estate Agents’ headquarters in Ballynahinch are Nicola Tipping, JAM Card Business Development Manager, Jonathan Quinn, Managing Director of Quinn Estate Agents, and Carrie Mackin, Branch Manager at the Ballynahinch office.

The JAM Card (‘Just A Minute’) is a discreet tool that allows people with invisible disabilities, including autism, neurodivergence, speech, language or communication difficulties to signal that they may need a little extra time or patience in everyday interactions.

By presenting a physical JAM Card or using the JAM Card app, individuals can quietly indicate that they may require “just a minute” of additional understanding or support.

Founded in Ballynahinch in 2010 by Managing Director Jonathan Quinn, the Quinn Group has grown into one of County Down’s largest estate agency groups, operating four branches and offering sales, lettings and mortgage services alongside Ritchie & McLean Mortgage Solutions.

Managing Director Jonathan Quinn, emphasised the importance of the initiative and said: “Property is about people. Buying, selling or renting a home can be one of the most significant moments in someone’s life, and we want every individual to feel understood and respected throughout that journey.

“We are proud to be the first estate agency in Northern Ireland to adopt the JAM Card initiative. As we continue to grow, accessibility and inclusion must remain at the heart of everything we do across all of our branches.”

Maeve Monaghan, CEO of NOW Group, added: “It’s fantastic to see the Quinn Group leading the way in the property sector.

“By taking this step, they are helping to remove barriers and improve experiences for people with hidden disabilities, while setting a strong example for others to follow.”

To find out more about the Quinn Group, visit www.quinnestateagents.com.

Wildfire Protection Campaign Is Launched

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Wildfire Protection Campaign Is Launched

Protect people, property, and nature from wildfires say DAERA, NIFRS, PSNI – keep the Mournes safe

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) and Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) are asking everyone to be vigilant about wildfires as we approach the spring and summer seasons.

Wildfires endanger Northern Ireland’s landscapes, biodiversity, property, infrastructure, and its people, while also imposing substantial public costs.

Wildfires can have health impacts on peoples respiratory and cardiovascular systems and can also cause injuries and have harmful mental health effects. Children and vulnerable populations may be at increased risk.

Given the inherent wildfire risk in spring weather patterns and the state of upland vegetation, this year a ‘Yellow’ or moderate wildfire risk will be deemed to exist across all areas that contain dead grasses, gorse and heather. This default status will remain until the end of the wildfire season in September unless otherwise upgraded by DAERA.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir pictured with PSNI Superintendent Chris Hamill and NIFRS Area Commander Ryan Thompson as the department and agencies issue a reminder about wildfire season.

It is an offence to burn or otherwise destroy any vegetation growing on any land not then cultivated between 15 April and 31 August in any year.

Restrictions and consent requirements may apply where these activities have the potential to damage an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI). Where a landowner is uncertain about their legal obligations in these matters, they should consult with NIEA before commencing such operations.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: “We all saw the damage that was done across Northern Ireland last year with devastating wildfires in the Mournes, Slieve Beagh and the Sperrins.

“I would urge everyone to act responsibly by heeding the advice, remaining vigilant and swiftly reporting to the Police anyone they suspect of maliciously starting fires in our countryside.”

NIFRS Area Commander Ryan Thompson said: “Last year, we responded to a significant number of wildfires throughout the spring and summer months, which placed intense pressure on our Firefighters and our Service.

“As we approach this period again, we urge everyone to support their Fire & Rescue Service by staying alert to wildfire risks and acting responsibly in the countryside.

“With everyone playing their part, we can help prevent wildfires before they start.”

PSNI Superintendent Chris Hamill said: “Deliberately setting a wildfire is a criminal offence for which you can face prosecution.

“Where it is found that a fire has been maliciously started, it will be fully investigated by police, and when identified, those responsible can expect to be arrested and brought before court.”

Advice to imporove safety from wildfires :

If you are in the countryside:

  • avoid using open fires in the countryside;
  • only use barbecues in designated areas and never leave them unattended;
  • ensure that barbecues are fully extinguished and cold before disposing of their contents;
  • extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials properly;
  • never throw cigarette ends out of car windows;
  • be considerate in parking vehicles so as not to impede access by emergency vehicles.

If you are carrying out prescribed burning:

  • burn within the legally permitted period for prescribed burning;
  • ensure you have the necessary consents or permissions to carry out the prescribed burning;
  • ensure Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service is notified of the burn and when the burn is completed;
  • ensure necessary precautions are in place to contain and manage the burning.

If you see a fire:

  • if you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service;
  • do not attempt to tackle fires that cannot be put out with a bucket of water;
  • leave the area as soon as possible;
  • if you see someone setting fires, report it to the PSNI.
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