‘Callous disregard’ for Chinook families after FOI disclosureMLA
CRAIG MEIGHAN, Irish News, May 11th, 2026
FAMILIES of the 29 people killed in the 1994 Mull of Kintyre Chinook crash have accused Britain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) of a “callous disregard” for their personal data after sensitive information was released.
The material, which was disclosed to a media organisation following a freedom of information (FOI) request, is said to contain sensitive personal, financial and legal information relating to the bereaved families.
The Chinook Justice Campaign, set up by the families, has now lodged a formal complaint demanding the MoD refers itself to the Information Commissioner’s Office.
The group has demanded an urgent explanation from ministers.
Lawyers for the families have also called for the relevant documents to be retracted and for all recipients to be notified that the personal data should not be published or disclosed.
Mark Stephens, a human rights lawyer acting for the families, said: “This represents a serious failure to protect the rights of families who have been deceived and lied to from day one.
“It shows a callous disregard for their personal information, has added trauma to a three-decade-long fight for the truth, and raises fundamental questions about the department’s handling of sensitive material.
“The Ministry of Defence must urgently explain how and why it placed personal information about bereaved families into the public domain without proper safeguards or due process, or any discussion with those families.”
He said the families are “once again” being subjected to “further harm through the unlawful disclosure of their personal information at a time when the MoD claims it is engaged in dialogue with them”.
He added: “That is completely and utterly unacceptable and they deserve a full and frank apology and an urgent meeting with the Prime Minister, to which he has committed.”
RAF Chinook ZD576 crashed in foggy weather while flying from RAF Aldergrove in Northern Ireland to Fort George near Inverness on June 2, 1994.
Pilots wrongly blamed
For years, the pilots were wrongly blamed for the disaster before being formally cleared in 2011.
The Chinook Justice Campaign said an FOI request by the British Forces Broadcasting Service was submitted after veterans minister Louise Sandher-Jones said in the House of Commons in November that some sealed documents were able to be requested.
Debris from the RAF Chinook ZD576 that crashed in foggy weather on the Mull of Kintyre in June 1994, killing all 29 service personnel on board
The families of the Chinook victims said the MoD had previously told them the documents related to the disaster were sealed for 100 years due to personal data reasons.
Chris Cook, whose brother Flight Lieutenant Rick Cook was killed, said: “For more than 30 years, our families have fought for truth and accountability. For 16 of those, we had to fight to clear Rick and Jon’s names.
“To now find that personal information has been exposed in this way is deeply distressing.
“It shows a complete lack of care for the families and the impact this crash and long fight for justice has had on all of us, and is highly illustrative of the deceit and disregard we have all faced from day one.
“I had hoped that having been promised proper dialogue by MoD ministers that we would see a change of direction. But it’s the same old MoD up to its dirty tricks.”
In April, families welcomed the Prime Minister’s agreement to meet with them as a “significant” step in their quest for “truth, transparency and accountability”.
Mr Cook said the meeting was “more urgent than ever” and he urged Sir Keir Starmer to confirm a date “as soon as possible”.
The release of the documents has prompted renewed demands for full transparency and a judge-led public inquiry, with families warning they have been informed by senior Government sources that further undisclosed material on the crash exists across Government in several locations.
The Chinook Justice Campaign has called for a public inquiry and for the case to be treated as one of the first tests of the proposed Hillsborough Law, which is intended to enforce a legal duty of candour on public authorities.
The MoD has been approached for comment.
Rise in NI pupils expelled from school 'cause for concern': MLA
MARK BAIN, Belfast Telegraph, May 11th, 2026
The number of pupils expelled from schools in Northern Ireland has risen over the last year.
Figures from the Department of Education show that in the 2024/25 academic year, 35 pupils were removed from schools — up by seven on the previous year. One MLA said the rise was “deeply concerning”.
All pupils expelled from school were in Year 8 or above and the majority were males (23).
Twenty-one of those expelled (60pc) were pupils with special educational needs. Persistent infringements of school rules was the most common reason for a pupil to be expelled.
Seven pupils (20pc of the total) were expelled for this reason. A further six were expelled due to a physical attack on another pupil and six were expelled for verbal abuse of staff.
The overall number of pupils suspended, though, has fallen from the previous year's record high.
Across all school types some 4,756 pupils were suspended a total of 7,904 times. The majority of suspended pupils (68.5pc) were suspended once during the 2024/25 academic year. That represents 1.6pc of all pupils, a decrease of 637 pupils (11.8pc) from the 2023/24 academic year when 5,393 pupils, representing 1.8pc of all pupils, were suspended.
“These figures have a significant impact on the pupils involved, their classmates and school staff,” said MLA Cara Hunter.
“While any reduction in suspensions is welcome, the sharp rise in expulsions and the continued high number of pupils being removed from classrooms points to deeper pressures facing many young people and schools across the North.
“Too often suspension and expulsion are symptoms of underlying issues, whether that is mental health pressures, behavioural difficulties or challenges at home. Teachers and school staff are working incredibly hard, but many schools simply do not have the resources or support services needed to properly intervene before situations reach crisis point.
“We need a much greater focus on early intervention and emotional wellbeing support so that young people are not being failed or missing out on their education.
“There is also a need to ensure staff feel properly supported in the classroom and equipped to deal with existing and emerging challenges when it comes to managing young people.”
DUP Foyle MLA and Education Committee member Julie Middleton, a former teacher, said the figures highlight ongoing pressures in classrooms.
“While it is encouraging to see a slight reduction in suspensions, the overall level remains too high and the rise in expulsions is deeply concerning.
“Having spent years in education, I know that time spent dealing with unruly pupils is time not spent teaching. That has a direct impact on the education of every child in that room,” she added.
“The fact that persistent breaches of school rules account for the largest share of suspensions tells its own story. Too many teachers are being pulled away from their core role to manage disruption rather than deliver learning.
Role of parents
“We must ensure that schools are properly supported to maintain discipline, and that teachers feel backed when dealing with challenging behaviour. There is a massive role for parents which should not be underestimated.
“Every child deserves a calm, orderly classroom where they can learn and every teacher deserves the support to make that happen.”
Ulster Unionist leader and education spokesperson Jon Burrows MLA said the figures show how too many teachers are stuck in a suspension merry-go-round with the same repeat offenders.
“That's not fair on staff, and it's not fair on the 30 plus pupils who come to class ready to learn,” he added. “Principals need the power to act decisively so every child can learn without fear or disruption. Every child deserves a safe, calm classroom.”
The statistics available from the Department of Education show that in the years prior to Covid-19, 2011/12 to 2018/19, the percentage of pupils suspended was relatively stable ranging from 1.3pc to 1.5pc. The academic years 2019/20 and 2020/21 were both impacted by Covid-19 with periods of school closures resulting in lower percentages of pupils suspended than in any of the preceding eight years, 1.1pc and 1.2pc respectively.
But after Covid the number of suspensions rose above the pre-Covid levels, with the 2021/22 academic year seeing the percentage of pupils suspended increase to 1.6pc and increase further to 1.7pc in 2022/23 and 1.8pc in 2023/24, before last year's first fall to 1.6pc.
In 2024/25, 3,730 suspended pupils representing 78.4pc of all suspended pupils were in non-grammar schools. A further 804 (16.9pc) were in grammar schools.
Persistent infringements of school rules was the reason for a suspension most frequently reported by schools, accounting for 2,429 suspensions (30.7pc) of all suspensions.
Physical attack on a pupil was the reason for 1,829 suspensions (23.1pc) and verbal abuse of staff was the reason for a further 1,738 suspensions (22.0pc).
Broken down by religion, 2,125 suspended pupils (44.8pc) were Roman Catholic while 1,582 (33.4pc) were Protestant. 3,929 (72.9pc) were male and 27.1pc female.
Children as young as 11 involved in east Belfast ‘WhatsApp arranged fights’
KIRSTY KING, Irish News, May 11th, 2026
POLICE and a local councillor have urged parents to “play their part” following antisocial behaviour involving children as young as 11 in east Belfast.
The disorder coincided with an East Belfast Protestant Boys parade in the area on Saturday evening, which police say “largely passed off peacefully”.
It is understood groups of young people arrived to the Connswater area around teatime – many of which coming from further afield via various transport links – and that a fight had been arranged to take place at CS Lewis Square over social media.
A PSNI Tactical Support Group arrived a soon time later.
It follows ongoing incidents of young people travelling to the area in recent weeks for arranged fights and anti-social behaviour.
Titanic councillor Ruth Brooks (DUP), who had raised concerns with the PSNI earlier this week following reports circulating online about potential arranged fights, said Saturday’s incident “points to pre-arranged fighting organised through WhatsApp groups and individuals who came to east Belfast primarily for the purpose of causing disorder”.
She added: “The reality is that police are operating far below the numbers needed to properly deal with these kinds of ongoing issues. Neighbourhood policing teams are stretched, and communities and youth workers are feeling that pressure as well.
“Youth workers are often left trying to step into difficult situations and pick up the pieces afterwards, but this cannot fall solely on them or on police.
“Ultimately, there is also a degree of parental responsibility here. Some of these children are 11, 12 and 13 years old. Parents need to know where their children are, who they are with and what they are getting involved in.”
Speaking about Saturday’s disorder, a PSNI spokesperson said: “Police were in attendance at a planned parade in the Newtownards Road area of east Belfast on Saturday evening, May 9.
“A number of reports were received around the parade, which largely passed off peacefully, of anti-social behaviour and altercations.
“Two fast food restaurants in the Connswater area had to close after large groups of young people gathered in the area, engaged in disorderly behaviour and smashed one of the windows.
“Officers attended and dispersed the crowds, and remained in the area for a time to ensure calm.”
The spokesperson continued: “Enquiries are ongoing into individual reports of criminal damage and assault, while additional evidence was gathered at the scene which will now be reviewed by our Public Order Evidence Team.
“There will be consequences, by way of proactive arrests, for those identified as being involved in offences.
“We will continue to engage with local representatives and the wider community in order to help prevent further instances of this behaviour, said the spokesperson.
“We would particularly ask parents and guardians to speak to their children so they know where they are, and to play their part in ensuring that they do not become involved in such reckless behaviour that could lead to someone getting hurt.”
The spokesperson added: ”Anyone who has information, or who can help identify those responsible, is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 1119 10/05/26.”
Councillor slams 'very disappointing' pyre which has been built in playpark
ABDULLAH SABRI, Belfast Telegraph, May 11th, 2026
BUT SOME RESIDENTS ARE SUPPORTIVE OF IT BEING THERE
Concerns have been raised over a bonfire being built on a playground in east Belfast.
The pyre is situated on Skipper's playpark on Medway Street, near Connswater, and has prompted mixed reactions from people in the area.
When the Belfast Telegraph spoke to locals — most were unaware that a bonfire burning was held there.
It's not known when the first one was erected, but Google satellite imagery, which is taken every one to three years, shows scorched marks in the earth where the current one stands.
Alliance councillor Jenna Maghie said the structure being built within the confines of the park is “very disappointing”.
“I know council has been working to resolve vandalism issues at the park, but incidents like this only set that work back,” the east Belfast councillor said.
“Families and children should be free to use their local resources at all times.
“I encourage the builders to reflect on their actions, remove the materials, and consider the negative impact they are having on their community and future generations.
“Everyone has the right to celebrate their culture, but this must always be done in a safe, respectful, and legal manner.
“I hope to see representatives from other political parties also step up and provide political leadership in the same way, and the park restored to its full community use in the near future.”
A Belfast City Council (BCC) spokesperson said the park has been closed due to “fire damage”, which is understood to have happened in February.
Gate removed
However, the gate was removed by an unknown party, meaning that the council cannot guarantee that children won't play in it.
“We have temporarily closed our Skipper Street playground due to fire damage to the soft surface area,” a BCC spokesperson said.
“Signage is in place to inform the public. We are also aware of bonfire material being collected nearby on our land.
“We continue to engage with elected representatives and community representatives to minimise any potential negative impact of bonfires on local residents, businesses, customers and property.”
One pensioner raised concerns with the pyre being built on the playground.
“Because it means the park is going to be destroyed too,” she said. “I didn't know anything about it as well. It will wreck the park. It's alright if it had of been outside of the park — not inside.”
One young mother said she wasn't aware the beacon was being built, but had no issue with it, highlighting that festivities around the Eleventh Night can be family-friendly.
She said: “If it's something that the kids are all doing, it's getting them involved in something, it's good for them in that sort of way,
“As long as they have like a wee barbecue and sweets and crisps — they love it.”
Another local woman, who was also unaware of the bonfire, feared it could be dangerous being “too close to the park.”
Law Society chief sorry over character reference for paedophile cousin
BRETT CAMPBELL, Belfast Telegraph, May 11th, 2026
Solicitors have expressed “disgust” after the chief executive of a professional body representing them provided a character reference for his paedophile cousin William Lloyd-Lavery.
Members of the Law Society for Northern Ireland were informed via email that its chief executive, David Lavery, had expressed remorse to its executive committee for telling a Crown Court judge that the man convicted of abusing four schoolgirls in the 1970s was “a person of sound judgement and good character”.
An email seen by the Belfast Telegraph, and signed by the Law Society's president Mark Borland, seeks to reassure members that the committee “considered this matter with deep concern and the gravity it requires” particularly in light of its “commitment to justice, equality, the rule of law and its advocacy on behalf of victims and survivors of sexual abuse”.
“David Lavery has apologised sincerely and unreservedly to council and has acknowledged that providing the reference was a serious error of judgement,” the correspondence states.
The executive committee welcomed the apology, but acknowledged the concern the matter had caused.
A number of Law Society members described the situation to the Belfast Telegraph as “disgusting” and said they were “appalled” by how it has been handled.
William Lloyd-Lavery, a former history teacher at Richmond Lodge in south Belfast, was handed a two-year sentence for indecently assaulting four female pupils, aged 13 and 14, between 1975 and 1979.
Sentencing the 77-year-old from Richmond Avenue in Lisburn, Judge Patrick Lynch referred to a character reference submitted by the defendant's cousin, David Lavery, who explained that while related, he only got to know Lloyd-Lavery in later life.
“My impression of Mr Lloyd-Lavery was principally formed when I got to know him when he was working at Stormont,” the reference states.
“By that time, he was a middle aged man in his late 50s and early 60s and was happily married with two adult children.
“I knew that he had a Christian faith and attended Lisburn Cathedral.
Settled, family man
“He appeared to me to be a settled, family man who wanted to contribute to society through his work on behalf of a number of elected representatives.
“I know that he was well respected in these circles and was viewed as a person of sound judgement and good character.”
A former chair of the Ulster Unionist Party and founding member of the Loyalist Communities Council also provided a character reference for the convicted child predator.
David Campbell, who served as a senior adviser to the late First Minister David Trimble, previously told this newspaper he does not regret doing so.
Law Society NI members have been told its executive committee has asked its personnel committee to oversee the development of a new protocol for “senior officers providing personal or professional references, including the reputational, ethical and governance considerations that apply in such circumstances”.
“This matter has also highlighted wider concerns around character references in cases involving sexual violence, abuse or serious harm,” the email concludes.
“The executive committee believes the society should engage with appropriate justice-sector partners to consider whether clearer guidance, policy change or legal reform is required in relation to the use of such references.
“The issues arising from this matter will be subject to further consideration, including by council. The matter will also be included on the agenda for discussion at the next council meeting.”
Ulster University - bill for PR and photography soars amid 450 job cuts
GARRETT HARGAN, Belfast Telegraph, May 11th, 2026
Ulster University's spending on photography and PR has risen sharply over recent years with a trade union saying it “undermines confidence in the assertion widespread job losses are inevitable”.
Last year, Ulster University spent £46,517 on photography.
That is an increase of 80pc from £25,875 in the previous year (2023/24).
It is also a jump of 408pc from £9,150 in 2021/22, albeit there were fewer public events that year due to Covid restrictions.
Ulster University (UU) also confirmed that more than £110,000 was spent on an external PR firm from 2021/22-2024/25.
It comes against the backdrop of UU spending more than £45,000 for an event to award Arnold Schwarzenegger an honorary doctorate.
The event had entertainment in the form of Terminator-themed Irish dancers in homage to one of his most famous films.
UU was proud of the occasion saying: “Social media posts about the event generated just under 2.5m impressions, over 1.5m views on video content and over 70,000 reactions (likes and shares).
“As a result of the visit, over 1,200 pieces of coverage has been generated in news outlets (including key recruitment markets) from the UK to USA, India, Pakistan, Africa, Canada and more. Our media monitoring service, Onclusive, calculates the Opportunities to See* (OTS) as 600m.
“Aside from the benefits of honouring Dr Schwarzenegger for his contributions to society, the media impact of the event represents extraordinarily cost-effective global marketing.”
Norman Hagan from the University and College Union (UCU) said the increase in photography and PR spend “inevitably raises serious questions when set alongside the announcement of 450 job losses at Ulster University.”
Investing in image
“It points to a pattern of growing investment in promotion and image management,” he told the Belfast Telegraph.
“At a time when staff are being told what the institution faces, such acute financial pressures, that redundancies on this scale have been announced, it is entirely reasonable for both staff and also the public to scrutinise discretionary spending, particularly on marketing, branding, and PR activity at local, national, and international levels.
“What this highlights is a broader and ongoing concern: a disconnect between strategic spending decisions and the university's core academic mission.”
The latest spend comes after this newspaper reported UU had spent a total of £168,000 on a series of trips — namely an awards ceremony attended by 32 staff members, a trip to the US for St Patrick's Day events and visits to a partner campus in Qatar.
Mr Hagan continued: “Staff are being asked to absorb the consequences of decisions over which they have had no control, while investment in areas such as promotion and visibility continues to grow. We recognise that universities do require effective communication and student recruitment strategies.
“However, when spending in these areas rises so sharply during a period of claimed financial crisis, it undermines confidence in the assertion that widespread job losses are unavoidable.
“Many members are now asking whether resources have been disproportionately directed towards external image, projects, and visibility, rather than ensuring sustainable staffing levels and protecting the student experience.
“That is a legitimate question, and one that requires transparent answers from senior leadership.
“Ultimately, this comes back to a fundamental principle: universities succeed because of their staff and students.
“Any approach that appears to prioritise optics over people risks damaging trust and the long-term sustainability of the institution.”
Ulster University was contacted for comment.
Union is ‘cracking at the seams’ says SF First Minister
MICHELLE O’NEILL FIRST MINISTER, Irish News, May 11th, 2026
PLATFORM
‘Westminster politics continues to lurch further to the right and that offers little for Scotland, Wales or for us here in north’
John Swinney triumphed in Scotland.
Rhun ap Iorwerth celebrates victory in Wales
WE are living through a time of extraordinary change.
We will have: a pro-independence First Minister here in the north of Ireland, a pro-independence First Minister in Scotland and a pro-independence First Minister in Wales.
The demand for independence is growing.
The Union is cracking at the seams. This moment has been coming.
The failings of Westminster and every British government have been laid bare.
Brexit, austerity, crumbling public services, and a deepening cost-of-living crisis have left more and more people concluding that enough is enough.
It is time for change. It is time for independence.
On the island of Ireland, we know all too well the effects of Westminster rule and the legacy of partition and discrimination and oppression.
My election as the first nationalist and republican First Minister was never meant to happen. But it did. And it happened because more and more people are recognising that a better future lies ahead when decisions about this island are made by all the people of this island, regardless of your background.
“ The failings of Westminster and every British government have been laid bare
People want something better and increasingly see Irish unity as part of that better and brighter future.
Meanwhile, Westminster politics continues to lurch further to the right.
That offers little for Scotland, Wales or for us here in the north of Ireland.
So it is time to forge our own futures.
Sinn Féin, the SNP and Plaid Cymru are different parties, but we are united in the belief that independence offers the best path forward for our people.
The Union doesn’t work. People deserve better.
I look forward to working with John Swinney in Scotland and Rhun ap Iorwerth in Wales to deliver for our citizens and to send a clear message that there is an alternative to Westminster failure.
That alternative is national self-determination and independence.
Constitutional change firmly on the agenda on these islands
Pro Fide et Patria, Irish News, May 11th, 2026
WHILE many groups have worked strenuously but unsuccessfully for decades towards encouraging the final break-up of the United Kingdom through constitutional means, the latest set of British elections have brought them closer than ever to realising their aims.
It is hugely significant that the first ministers of not only Northern Ireland and Scotland but now almost definitely Wales as well are fully committed to independence, and have a mandate to push the debate forward during their present terms of office.
The era of two major parties, Labour and the Conservatives, dominating proceedings at Westminster also seems to be over, with the next British government likely to be an unusual coalition which may further undermine the unionist position.
“ The level of nationalist support has traditionally been weaker in Wales than in Scotland, so the surge to power of Plaid Cymru, one hundred years after it was formed, deserves to be regarded as an historic moment
Whether such an arrangement involves Nigel Farage remains to be seen, as, although his Reform UK group is relentlessly growing at present, much can change before the next British general election is due in 2029.
However, if Mr Farage does play a key role, unionists will undoubtedly recall his comment to The Irish Times in 2023 – “One day there will be a United Ireland. But it’s not on the horizon immediately.”
The DUP was previously prepared to put its full trust in another colourful English nationalist, Boris Johnson, before coming to bitterly regret the association, and can only regard the Reform UK leader with considerable suspicion.
It is also increasingly clear that the days of Keir Starmer, an instinctive unionist, as British prime minister are numbered, as he has stumbled from one crisis to another until his Labour Party performed pitifully across England, Scotland and Wales last week.
His successor may well have a much more open mind than Mr Starmer on independence issues, as do many Labour MPs, with a different phase emerging during the wider debate.
The level of nationalist support has traditionally been weaker in Wales than in Scotland, so the surge to power of Plaid Cymru, one hundred years after it was formed, deserves to be regarded as an historic moment.
Labour’s Welsh collapse has been dramatic, and all the evidence is that it will remain in disarray there for the foreseeable future, with Plaid having an outstanding opportunity to consolidate its grip on the Senedd.
The Scottish National Party has emerged from a prolonged period of upheaval to become stronger than ever, and is entitled to step up its efforts to secure a second and potentially decisive referendum on independence.
We are in a period when the old certainties are being swept away, and constitutional change has moved from a distant prospect to an increasingly viable option in Scotland, Wales and plainly Ireland.
Detectives step up search for police station attackers
KURTIS REID, Belfast Telegraph, May 11th, 2026
Detectives investigating the attack at Dunmurry Police Station have revisited the scene and carried out road stops two weeks after the incident.
The renewed appeal for information is being supported by an offer of up to £20,000 from the charity Crimestoppers for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
Police said the attack began on the night of Saturday, 25 April, when a delivery driver was threatened by a masked gunman in the Summerhill area of Twinbrook at about 10.45pm.
A 66-year old man has since been charged in connection with the attack.
According to detectives, the driver's vehicle was hijacked and an improvised explosive device placed inside before the driver was ordered to drive to Dunmurry Police Station. The device exploded outside the station at about 11.15pm.
Detective Inspector Campbell, from the PSNI's Terrorism Investigation Unit, described the incident as a “cowardly and senseless attack” which could have resulted in significant loss of life.
He added that officers had been helping residents, including two babies, to safety when the explosion occurred. As part of the latest appeal, officers returned to the area to distribute leaflets and speak to pedestrians, motorists and passengers
Detective Inspector Campbell urged anyone with information, “no matter how insignificant it might seem”, to contact police or Crimestoppers anonymously.
“I'm asking you to think, for just one minute, of the utter devastation that could have resulted. And I'm asking you to do the right thing. If you have any information, no matter how insignificant it might seem, please speak to us,” he said.
“I'm also keen to offer assurance that Crimestoppers, who are a charity and independent of the police, can be contacted with 100% anonymity. The charity is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information, received directly, that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the attack.”
Labour must stop tinkering or it will hand Farage keys to power
DEIRDRE HEENAN, Irish News, May 11th, 2026
SHOULD he stay or should he go? Following a catastrophic set of local election results, Sir Keir Starmer has faced renewed calls from Labour MPs to step down.
More than a century of Labour’s political dominance in Wales has been shattered, the scale and significance of this defeat being seismic.
By Saturday, more than 30 Labour MPs had called for the PM to quit or agree a timetable for his departure.
In response, Starmer acknowledged that the result was ‘tough’ but said he was “not going to walk away from this”, as that would plunge the “country into chaos”.
He announced that he had a new plan to build a stronger and fairer Britain, focusing on supporting young people. This blueprint will be unveiled today in perhaps the most significant speech of his political life.
Alongside this he announced that Harriet Harman and Gordon Brown had been appointed as advisors to his floundering administration. He described this as broadening his team by bringing in “old heads”.
It is difficult to see the rationale for bringing back a previous prime minister and deputy prime minister. In what way is this bold, fresh or re-energising? It smacks of desperation.
Starmer’s assertion that this ‘setback’ would not force him to change his political direction is worrying.
He doesn’t seem to realise that part of the problem is very few understand his political direction and to date it has had as many turns as Spaghetti Junction.
Is it all too little too late? Labour are haemorrhaging support and credibility.
Is Starmer a liability that no amount of warm words or mantras, such as ‘unifying rather than dividing’, can fundamentally change?
Countless columns have been written about his unsuitability for the role, highlighting his lack of charisma, his woodenness, his inability to connect with the public and his lack of political judgement.
However, Starmer has been prime minister for less than two years. It is simply unrealistic to expect an economic and social revival in that timeframe.
It has been an incredibly tough mandate, against a background of growing geopolitical tensions and global uncertainty.
In a rare intervention into current politics, former PM John Major has warned that it is not a good idea to keep changing prime ministers.
As he rightly pointed out, far too many in the media treat politics like a game show, a soap opera. The country needs stability and delivery, not more of the psychodrama that the Tories delivered for over a decade.
Nigel Farage’s Reform UK gained almost 1,500 seats in the English local government elections
Starmer needs to face down Farage, challenge his populist politics and highlight the extent to which Brexit is an unmitigated economic and social disaster for the UK.
The endless intense speculation about Starmer’s leadership has become daily fodder for the media. The coverage of the Mandelson affair was bordering on hysteria.
Yet we rarely have informed discussions about the bigger picture of demographic change, healthcare and immigration.
What is the alternative? Predictability, the much-discussed plan to replace Starmer with Andy Burnham has once again been dusted off. For the Labour Party this may be neither feasible nor desirable.
Alternatives
Burnham is the most popular of the possible successors amongst Labour MPs. He is articulate, passionate and progressive, championing change in the north of England.
However, it is difficult to ascertain what the so called “King of the North” actually stands for. To date he has been a Blairite, a Brownite, a Millibandite and a Corbynite. Does he really embody the change that is required?
Also, engineering the conditions required to install Burnham in Downing Street is far from straightforward. He cannot stand for the leadership until he is an MP.
Even if his nomination was supported by the party’s national executive, given the electoral wipe-out in the north-west of England, he may well lose a by-election.
Would another leader really do any better? Starmer is unlikely to win another general election, but he has three years of a mandate to be bold, progressive, make radical decisions, restore confidence and credibility.
He needs to face down Farage, challenge his populist politics and highlight the extent to which Brexit is an unmitigated economic and social disaster for the UK.
The voters have sent Starmer a message. He must demonstrate that he can listen and lead.
He must articulate clearly what he is doing and why, accompanied by a coherent set of policies.
Without a sense of purpose, political renewal and a reversal of fortunes will be a pipe dream.
His landslide victory gave the false impression of solidarity. At the moment this Labour government look like a group of people who have no idea what they are doing and why. The psychological shift from opposition to government has been a monumental challenge.
Starmer is cautious, steady but dogged. Now he needs to show some mettle, ambition and strategic clarity.
If his plan today is to announce some tinkering at the margins, Labour will be finished.
They will have handed the keys to Downing Street to Nigel Farage on a plate.
Orange Order reject claims of 'Protestant mortgage fund' in Co Tyrone
NIAMH CAMPBELL, Belfast Telegraph, May 11th, 2026
The Orange Order and senior members have said that messages circulating online claiming that the loyal institution offers mortgage assistance to Protestants wanting to buy homes in a Co Tyrone village are “a load of nonsense” that may have been created to increase community tensions.
The messages, which originated on the texting app WhatsApp and were described as “fake” by one Orange spokesman, refer to Castlecaulfield.
It goes on to mention the names of well-known people and entrepreneurs in the area, saying that they have “been in touch with a number of financial advisors, and there may be support available to help with mortgage costs from the Orange lodge”.
A spokesman for the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland told this newspaper: “I can confirm that the content of this message is fictitious. No such mortgage assistance scheme is in existence.”
A spokesperson for the Orange District Lodge in Castlecaulfield also said “the message is fake”.
In 2015, BBC NI's Spotlight programme investigated a practice known as “colour-coding”, in which they focused on how land is sometimes steered toward buyers from the same background as the seller.
The show focused on the Orange Order, with its Grand Secretary at the time, the late Drew Nelson, acknowledging that some Orange lodges operate “land funds” aimed at helping Protestants retain land ownership in areas where they are a minority.
Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph this week, property developer David Mahon, the serving county Grand Master for Donegal, said he has “never heard” of such funds being used to help “mortgages or individuals”.
In regard to “colour-coding”, he added: “I've never heard of that, but I knew there were allegations made of that previously.”
Causing tension
Mark Robinson, a DUP councillor in the Mid Ulster area and a lifelong member of the Orange Order, said that he had asked members of the community in Castlecaulfield about the recent WhatsApp message circulating, and believes it is a “scam” devised to “cause tension” ahead of the upcoming marching season.
He also said he had spoken to the businessmen that were mentioned in the message.
“They're laughing at it too, to be honest. They think it's a bit of a joke.
“I think there's somebody there with an ulterior motive — whatever that motivation is, I think it's to create tensions. It's a load of nonsense.”
In relation to “colour-coding” claims, he added: “Don't get me wrong, it's the same on both sides.
“There would be an old culture certainly within certain Protestants where they don't want to sell the 'wrong way' and vice versa - it would work both ways, on the other side as well.
“But I am not aware of any such sort of thing happening around Castlecaulfield of that nature and I honestly don't think there's anything in the story whatsoever.
“I don't know whether it's coming into the parading season and there's tension trying to be created.
“People just get on with life. They've moved on. It's not as big a thing as maybe it had been years ago,” he continued. “I think people have moved on a lot from that. I'm not saying that if people put up a flag that nothing's going to happen.
“That's one culture and it'll probably create tensions at times but I think this specific message is designed to create tensions.
“It is nasty to add the names of individuals and businesses in the town. I don't think that's very nice.”
Unionism's old guard have outstayed their welcome - a new generation offers hope
DAVID GRAHAM, Belfast Telegraph, May 11th, 2026
It is not the strongest that survive, but the species most willing to adapt to change, Charles Darwin once observed. And although I do not agree with his worldview, the quote should be applied to unionism.
Unionism has one immediate and pressing issue: the recognition that evolving, and being prepared to change, is the only way we can survive.
The Westminster election in 2024 showed that some unionist candidates stayed for one election too many. They either lacked self awareness, or perhaps the internal fixers and policy makers didn't have the courage to stand up to some perceived political heavyweights.
The real challenge with this approach is that whoever replaces them in 2029 has a much bigger job on their hands, because they are starting from a lower base.
In reality, unionism has lost seats in the past because it has failed to identify the need for change early enough.
Most worryingly, it has identified the need, but has not had either the willingness or the courage to do anything about it. In fact, I've personally experienced criticism from within organisations for being an advocate of change.
Sometimes you'd wonder if we live in North Korea rather than Northern Ireland.
Wanting to improve and evolve should not be portrayed as an act of disloyalty but should be embraced for the greater good.
In my view, those who toe the party line and curry favour with internal powerbrokers are only allowing inertia, apathy and accepting mediocrity as standard.
When I worked at Rangers, we were presented with a graph at board level, outlining succession planning for the playing squad. Each position was identified with players' contract lengths taken into account. We then saw potential replacements from other clubs or our academy and how this would ensure there were no gaps whilst improving the overall squad. Parties must carry out the same exercise in regard to their representatives, basing planning on age, potential and identify gaps.
For too long, the same people have been allowed to outstay their welcome, perhaps epitomised by the decline of the UUP under David Trimble's leadership.
I have seen this in my own working life as well.
I recall having a meeting with a senior member of the Linfield board, where I raised concerns about the unwieldy board, the age and gender profile, and the need to change before it was too late.
I asked: “Would you run your business like this?”
He swiftly replied, “No, David, it would never work.”
When I asked why, then, did he allow it to happen at Linfield, he had no response beyond hiding behind a club constitution written in the same year as the First Home Rule Bill.
Purgatory
In reality, this is the same across many organisations within Northern Ireland, whether it be churches, sports clubs or community groups like the Orange Order. These are organisations who have attempted to professionalise their structures while struggling to best utilise the countless volunteers who are the lifeblood of their organisation. Too many are stuck in a form of purgatory where they don't quite know who they are and how they can adapt to modern day society, especially post-Covid.
The common problem is a failure to change, a failure to adapt, and, worst of all, a sense that there is an expected level of deference to those in perceived positions of power. Furthermore, it's often not the best people who are elevated to positions of power but those who have the most time on their hands.
I've seen all too often how people have been appointed to influential positions within the Orange Order, not because of a unique skillset but because they've essentially hung around long enough and patiently waited their turn.
That is one of the key reasons why the Presbyterian Church ended up in an invidious position last year. As a regular attendee of a Presbyterian church, I believe the organisation failed to be self-reflective and willing to open itself up to scrutiny.
A key challenge was an organisation wrapped up in archaic structures, held together by people who prioritised their own positions over the future direction of the organisation.
No doubt, the brazen approach taken by other churches in the past had an influence on their thinking.
It is particularly frustrating that there are many organisations with significant cover-ups and crimes who seem to be able to take the brass-necked approach.
As another member of the Linfield board admitted, it will take something 'huge' to make change happen.
Either something catastrophic like not winning a trophy for five years, perhaps verging on bankruptcy, or something incredibly positive, such as qualifying for European group stages. In layman's terms, ending up on the financial cliff edge or receiving a huge cash injection.
I believe this was a recognition that change must occur, but also an acceptance that you are either unable or unwilling to deliver it. Therefore, you admit that you're happy to accept that others will outperform you but you prefer this option, rather than cause some form of internal challenge within your organisation, or worst of all, lose your position of power.
The same can be said now as we look ahead to the next election.
Unionism must learn from the past.
We cannot continue to hand the baton down through close family networks and be accused of nepotism, or reward people simply for having been around for so long. The fact people simply hang around long enough does not make you automatically deserving of selection.
We must look to the younger generation.
As I celebrate my 40th birthday this year, I feel I am in a position where I am neither young nor old.
We must recognise that people need to be afforded opportunities. That is why I am greatly enthused by the DUP's regular use of Jonny Buckley, Diane Forsythe and Phillip Brett in the media.
We must recognise that nothing lasts forever, and people must begin to understand that it is not the personality or the individual that wins elections.
It is not the individual that wins football matches or unites organisations — it is the collective.
What is needed is a shared sense of unity, togetherness and common values that will drive unionism forward.
Almost 340 illegal waste sites probed in past year
CONOR SHEILS, Irish News, May 5th, 2026
ALMOST 340 large scale illegal dumping sites were investigated by environmental authorities in Northern Ireland in the past year, new figures reveal.
Data shows the NI Environment Agency’s Environmental Crime Unit (ECU) accepted 339 illegal waste sites for investigation during the 2025/26 financial year.
Newry Mourne and Down recorded the highest number of sites at 48, followed by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon with 46 and Antrim and Newtownabbey with 41.
Meanwhile, Derry and Strabane recorded 33, Mid and East Antrim 27 and Ards and North Down 31 cases.
Belfast, despite being the most densely populated council area, recorded just 26 – among the lowest in Northern Ireland.
Mid Ulster recorded 25 illegal waste site investigations.
Fermanagh and Omagh recorded the fewest investigated sites at 18, followed by Causeway Coast and Glens with 20 and Lisburn and Castlereagh with 24.
SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone, who tabled an Assembly question on the matter, told The Irish News that the scale of illegal dumping was “deeply concerning”.
“These sites damage our natural environment, threaten wildlife, harm biodiversity and contribute to wider pollution problems, including those affecting Lough Neagh,” he said.
Data shows the NI Environment Agency’s Environmental Crime Unit (ECU) accepted 339 illegal waste sites for investigation during the 2025/26 financial year.
“The fact that this activity continues on such a large scale shows that many of those involved do not fear the consequences and believe they can operate with impunity. The number of prosecutions remains far too low and there are serious questions about whether enforcement agencies have the resources and powers they need to tackle this issue effectively.
“We need to see the DAERA Minister working alongside his Executive colleagues, including the Justice Minister, to ensure those responsible for illegal dumping are pursued properly and held accountable.”
The figures cover only the more serious cases handled by NIEA, which deals with sites exceeding 20 cubic metres of waste or involving hazardous material.
Real scale of problem
Smaller incidents are the responsibility of local councils, meaning the true scale of the problem is likely far greater.
The agency itself acknowledged it was unable to estimate the total number of large-scale illegal waste sites, saying such sites are “by their nature, concealed and unlicensed” and that any figure “would be speculative and could be misleading”.
Separate figures released by DAERA show that NIEA spent over £750,000 clearing illegally dumped waste over the past five years, though this may only capture a fraction of the total public cost given councils bear responsibility for the majority of incidents.
An NIEA spokesperson said: “NIEA takes its responsibilities around waste crime incredibly seriously with all incidents of illegal dumping and fly-tipping investigated. Pursuing criminal prosecution is often a complex matter, it is of paramount importance that the public reports illegal waste activity to NIEA and their local council to assist in holding perpetrators of environmental crime to account.
“NIEA’s Environmental Crime Unit investigates suspected waste offences using its powers under the Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 and in line with DAERA’s Enforcement Policy. District Councils are also an enforcing authority under the Order, working alongside NIEA with equivalent powers, and will hold separate data on successful prosecutions.”
Kneecap's new album is number one in the Irish charts
KURTIS REID, Belfast Telegraph, May 11th, 2026
Kneecap's third studio album has landed top of the Irish official charts as the west Belfast and Derry trio narrowly missed out on a UK number one.
The group's album, Fenian, was released earlier this month to critical acclaim.
The Irish language rap trio — made up of members Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí — secured the top spot in Ireland while finishing second in the UK's Official Albums Chart following a closely fought three-way race.
The UK number one position ultimately went to Michael Jackson, whose compilation album The Essential Michael Jackson returned to the summit following renewed interest linked to the success of the new biopic Michael.
Former Spice Girl Melanie C finished third with her latest solo album Sweat.
Despite missing out on the UK top spot, Fenian marks the highest-charting UK release of Kneecap's career to date and continues the group's rapid rise outside Ireland.
Their previous album, Fine Art, released in 2024, peaked at number 43 in the UK and reached number two in Ireland.
In a post on social media, the group celebrated their chart position, writing: “Hello again a chairde Gael — we have come number 2 in the British Charts.
“We've been pipped at the post by someone called Michael Jackson....
“This is the highest ever Irish language chart position there.
“Fine Art came in at 43 two years ago, some jump for FENIAN and we appreciate all the kind words and reviews.
“Massive thanks to everyone for the support we sold a massive number of records/cds/tapes all across the lands.
“We have decided to give all our earnings from these sales away to three organisations; The Palestine Solidarity Campaign in London and Glór na Móna & Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich in Belfast.
“Special thanks to Dan Carey & Jeff Barrett and all at Heavenly. See you all in Belfast at the end of the month for AVA and London in June (Crystal Palace).”
Earlier this week, the Official Charts Company said fewer than 3,000 units separated the leading albums in the race for number one, prompting speculation that Kneecap could become the first Irish language act to top the UK album charts.
Following the release of midweek chart figures, the group claimed on social media that Fenian could become “the first ever Irish language album” to reach number one in the UK, but ultimately fell short.
