Northern Ireland

Payslip illustrating low-paid work in Northern Ireland

October 1, 2026 The Belfast Desk

New research highlights scale of low-paid work across Northern Ireland

New research into low-paid work in Northern Ireland has highlighted concerns around earnings, working hours, employment security and wider job quality.

Northern Ireland cancer waiting times April to June 2026

October 1, 2026 The Belfast Desk

More than seven in 10 cancer patients miss 62-day treatment target in Northern Ireland

More than seven in 10 cancer patients urgently referred by their GP in Northern Ireland missed the 62-day treatment target between April and June, new figures show.

Liz Kimmins discusses Northern Ireland driving rules with students at St Colman's College

September 30, 2026 The Belfast Desk

New driving licence rules come into force across Northern Ireland from 01 October

Major new driving rules come into force across Northern Ireland on 1 October, including a six-month learning period, new R plates and restrictions for younger drivers.

Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald with university representatives at the iPHARMA investment announcement

September 30, 2026 The Belfast Desk

iPHARMA investment of £11.7m to boost medicines innovation in Northern Ireland

Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University will deliver the £11.7m iPHARMA project, helping businesses develop innovative medicines and bring new products to market.

City of Derry Airport terminal building and control tower

September 30, 2026 The Belfast Desk

Archibald warns Air Passenger Duty decision could undermine Derry-Dublin air service

Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald has warned that the decision not to exempt the planned Derry-Dublin air service from Air Passenger Duty could undermine the route’s viability.

Drumcree Church Portadown ahead of Drumcree parade

September 30, 2026 The Belfast Desk

Large-scale criminal investigation launched into Garvaghy Road protest

PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher has confirmed a large-scale criminal investigation into the unlawful Garvaghy Road protest as the Drumcree stand-off continues.

Belfast cocaine seizure – Police Service of Northern Ireland badge

September 30, 2026 The Belfast Desk

Belfast pair sentenced after £100,000 cocaine and £260,000 cash seizure

Two people from Belfast have been sentenced after a PSNI Organised Crime Branch investigation uncovered cocaine worth around £100,000 and more than £260,000 in cash.

Rachel Langdale KC, chair of the Truth Recovery Public Inquiry

September 30, 2026 The Belfast Desk

Rachel Langdale KC appointed to chair Northern Ireland Truth Recovery Public Inquiry

Rachel Langdale KC has been appointed to chair Northern Ireland’s Truth Recovery Public Inquiry into Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses.

PSNI Connect launch ahead of Northern Ireland-wide rollout

September 30, 2026 The Belfast Desk

PSNI Connect to launch across Belfast and Northern Ireland

PSNI Connect will launch across Belfast and every policing district in Northern Ireland on October 1, offering residents direct updates from neighbourhood police officers.