There has been just one ‘illegal wastewater’ conviction in Northern Ireland over five years

Concerns over Northern Ireland sewage pollution have revealed a “shocking” lack of prosecutions despite an estimate of thousands of illegal connections in the UK.

Only one conviction in NI has been made of an unauthorised link up to the wastewater system in the last five years.

The enforcement statistics have been revealed through a Freedom of Information request to Northern Ireland Water by a Mournes elected member.

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Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service Alliance councillor Jill Truesdale said:”Only one prosecution in five years is a shocking figure.

“It clearly shows a need for more enforcement and funding around this particular area with NIW, which has such far reaching consequences for housing, construction and jobs.

“I requested this information because, illegal connections, be they through changes of use or an existing building or new projects without the necessary permissions, are a contributing factor to the overloading of the existing NIW infrastructure.”

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs estimates up to 500,000 UK homes are suspected to be illegally mis-connected.

Pressures on the wastewater network have been publicly announced by NIW with major housing developments in multiple council areas now impacted.

In the last five years, the FoI also shows 12 continuing NIW investigations of unauthorised connections and one ongoing prosecution.

The water authority also listed five cases with insufficient evidence to proceed and three warning letters handed out as well as one formal caution.

The Department for Infrastructure is due to bring forward legislation under the Water Sustainable Drainage and Flood Management Bill to address unlawful connections.

In some instances foul water pipes can be connected to the wrong drainage system ultimately leading to the pollution and contamination of streams, rivers, and coastlines.

Councillor Truesdale added:”While the Bill is very welcome it lacks detail on funding and enforcement of illegal connections.

“Foul drainage connected to surface water is discharged at its final destination be this a river or the sea, without treatment, and surface water drainage connected to foul drainage would overload the system and require treatment so in effect money is being spent on treating rainwater.

“Illegal connections may cause pollution of watercourses as well as hinder development by overloading the system.”

The FoI statement from NIW reads: “NI Water’s approach to enforcement is in line with the principles of better regulation.

“This will help consumers, both domestic and commercial, to understand the nature and extent of their responsibilities and comply with the law voluntarily.

“However, there are times when conformity with the law needs to be sought by formal enforcement action.

“The effective use of enforcement powers is important to secure compliance with the legislation and, where necessary, to ensure that consumers are held to account.

“NI Water’s Enforcement and Prosecution Policy sets out the options available to the company.

“The options available to NI Water range from advisory letters and warning letters to formal cautions and prosecution.”

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King Charles III and Queen Camilla continued their state visit in Washington DC on Tuesday, by meeting members of President Trump’s cabinet, before the King gave a speech to both houses of US Congress to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.

They ended the day with a state dinner at the White House, where Trump praised the United Kingdom for the ‘richest inheritance one nation could give to another’, while Charles gifted the president a bell from his WW2 submarine namesake, ‘HMS Trump’.

It is the first such visit by the reigning monarch to the US since Queen Elizabeth II met President George W Bush in 2007.

The King and Queen will journey to New York City tomorrow, to participate in a memorial service for victims of the 11 September 2001 attacks.

Read the BBC’s analysis of Charles’ speech to Congress here

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticised Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict, and the US President has now hit back with a stark warning over Iran’s nuclear capabilities

Donald Trump has issued a stark warning over Iran’s nuclear capabilities to Friedrich Merz after the German Chancellor took aim at the US President.

Germany’s leader claimed on Monday that Iran was “humiliating” the United States following fruitless peace talks that saw American envoys hauled out to Pakistan.

Speaking to students in Marsberg, Merz said the Iranians were “obviously very skilled at negotiating, or rather, very skilled at not negotiating, letting the Americans travel to Islamabad and then leave again without any result”.

“An entire nation is being humiliated by the Iranian leadership, especially by these so-called Revolutionary Guards. And so I hope that this ends as quickly as possible,” he said. Merz and Trump met at the White House in March.

The US President has now hit back on social media, insisting Merz “doesn’t know what he’s talking about” while issuing a pointed warning about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, reports the Mirror.

Trump said on Truth Social: “The Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz, thinks it’s OK for Iran to have a Nuclear Weapon. He doesn’t know what he’s talking about! If Iran had a Nuclear Weapon, the whole World would be held hostage.

“I am doing something with Iran, right now, that other Nations, or Presidents, should have done long ago. No wonder Germany is doing so poorly, both Economically, and otherwise! President DONALD J. TRUMP.” Merz has permitted the US to utilise the Ramstein air base for coordinating strikes on Iran, but expressed doubt over how Trump would extricate himself from the conflict.

“If I had known that it would continue like this for five or six weeks and get progressively worse, I would have told him even more emphatically,” Merz said. This follows the emergence of a leaked memo suggesting the US was exploring methods of penalising NATO allies who have failed to fully back the war.

The Top 100 stores will be celebrated as part of the Better Retailing Festival & Awards in September

Seven shops from across Northern Ireland have been recognised in the UK and Ireland’s ‘Top 100 independent convenience stores‘ list for 2026.

The ‘Better Retailing Top 100 Stores‘ have all demonstrated exceptional standards across two or more of the eight Better Retailing Awards categories, which are based on the core competencies of running a successful store.

Identified through independent assessments, the Top 100 forms part of the Better Retailing Awards, which recognises and celebrates retailers across the country who are doing great things for their customers and their communities.

The Top 100 stores will be celebrated as part of the Better Retailing Festival & Awards, which takes place on Monday 14 September in Birmingham.

A spokesperson said: “We are absolutely thrilled to unveil the 2026 list of 100 outstanding independent news and convenience stores across the UK and Ireland.

“These exceptional retailers are going above and beyond for their customers and communities, proudly raising the bar and championing excellence across the entire channel.

“Identified through independent assessment, these stores will be celebrated at the Better Retailing Festival in September, and are now moving forward to the next stage of the Better Retailing Awards judging process.

“A HUGE congratulations to those stores that have made the list!”

Here are the Northern Irish stores to make the top 100 for 2026:

• Hamilton News, Belfast
• Milestone Rathfriland, Newry
• Moran’s Centra & Go Fuels, Derry
• Mulgrews Food Hall, Carryduff
• Mulkerns Eurospar, Cloughoge
• Mulkerns Spar, Newry
• Spar Malone Road, Belfast

See the full list of top stores across the UK and Ireland here

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

President Donald Trump is a well-known fan of gold — but he might find an old hunk of brass he received from King Charles III on Tuesday to be just as precious as that precious metal.

The King, who returned to the White House Tuesday evening for a state dinner to cap off his two-day visit to Washington, gifted the American president with a Second World War-era submarine’s bell, polished to a mirror shine, which had once been part of a British submarine that spent more than 20 years in Australia when the Royal Navy maintained a permanent presence there.

The boat’s name? H.M.S. Trump.

Charles presented Trump with the relic of his Royal Navy namesake as he delivered a toast in which he said he hoped it would “stand as a testimony to our nation’s shared history and shining future.”

“And should you ever need to get hold of us, just give us a ring,” he said.

The King also thanked Trump for his “generous hospitality” during what he said was his 20th visit to the United States — his first as the British sovereign — as he delivered a lighthearted toast in which he noted the construction site on which Trump hopes to build his controversial $400 million ballroom after demolishing the historic East Wing of the White House last year.

Charles acknowledged that he could not “help but notice the readjustments to the East Wing” as he left Trump’s guests laughing with his wry observation that the British had “made our own small attempt at real estate redevelopment of the White House” when troops under the command of Major-General Robert Ross set it ablaze in 1814.

The King’s visit to Washington has followed a period of tensions between his Labour Party-led government and the Trump administration over the U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign against Iran after the British government declined to participate in the unprovoked war, leading Trump to attack Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer as “no Winston Churchill” and slam the NATO alliance as a “paper tiger.”

In what appeared to be a backhanded acknowledgment of the transatlantic dispute, Charles noted that Trump had recently accused Europe of being insufficiently grateful for America’s role in defeating Nazism during the Second World War in remarks at the World Economic Forum when he said European leaders would “all be speaking German and a little Japanese” were it not for America.

But the King turned the tension into fodder for yet another laugh line when he pointed out that the British control of most of North America prior to the late 1700s had prevented Britain’s rival kingdom — France — from gaining purchase in what is now the U.S. and most of Canada.

“Indeed, you recently commented, Mr. President, that if it were not for the United States, European countries would be speaking German. Dare I say that if it wasn’t for us, you’d be speaking French,” he said, drawing yet more laughs from guests in the jam-packed East Room.

“American leadership helped rebuild a shattered continent, playing a decisive role as a defender of freedom in Europe. We and I shall never forget that,” the King added.

The white-tie state dinner hosted by Trump came just hours after Charles used a historic address to the U.S. Congress to offer a subtle but stinging rebuke of Trump’s often-monarchical ambitions — hailing the “separation of powers” that ensured the new union would not wind up with another king lording over the unified colonies all those centuries ago.

Speaking before a rare joint meeting of Congress on the second day of his and Queen Camilla’s state visit to Washington, the king had both Democrats and Republicans leaping to their feet, clapping and loudly cheering in response to his thinly disguised critique of the current president veiled in a historical description of the American constitutional system, lauding the foundation of the republic as part of a “great inheritance” passed down from the United Kingdom to the United States.

“Our common ideals were not only crucial for liberty and equality, they are also the foundation of our shared prosperity. The Rule of Law: the certainty of stable and accessible rules, an independent judiciary resolving disputes and delivering impartial justice,” he said.

He added that the “bitter divisions of 250 years ago” had given way to “a friendship that has grown into one of the most consequential Alliances in human history.”

John Swinney, Anas Sarwar, Russell Findlay, Ross Greer, Alex Cole-Hamilton and Malcolm Offord squared off at the final TV debate of the Holyrood election.

With nine days to go until the Holyrood election, opinion polls show the SNP on course for a record fifth term.

Tonight’s STV debate at the Signet Library in Edinburgh – featuring the six party leaders – was one of the final chances for the political parties to make an impression with a significant number of voters.

The debate was moderated by STV’s Colin Mackay and there were plenty of fireworks, particularly when the leaders questioned each other.

Daily Record Political Editor Paul Hutcheon watched the debate and here is how he rated the six leaders who want to lead the country.

John Swinney (SNP)

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The First Minister’s aim was not to mess up on live TV and he achieved his ambition.

Rivals pounded him on the NHS and the cost of living crisis, but he never looked like hitting the floor.

He enjoyed himself after months of facing questions from rivals at Holyrood.

3/5

Anas Sarwar (Scottish Labour)

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Sarwar needed a strong showing given his party is significantly behind the SNP in the polls.

He urged Malcolm Offord to “look in the mirror” over his divisive election campaign and challenged Swinney on the death of tragic 10 year old Milly Main at a scandal-hit hospital.

He had a good night.

3/5

Russell Findlay (Scottish Tories)

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Findlay delivered his lines on opposing independence in his usual robust style, but he had no election-changing moment.

His previous support for Tory zoomer Liz Truss was also thrown back in his face.

He gave the appearance of a man who knows he will not be leader for much longer.

2/5

Alex Cole-Hamilton (Scottish Lib Dems)

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The Scottish Lib Dem leader can appear repetitive at times, but he put in his best debate performance of the campaign.

Confronting Malcolm Offord over Nigel Farage’s criticism of the hand gun ban in the wake of the Dunblane tragedy was his best moment.

He was also strong on holding John Swinney to account over the ferries scandal.

3/5

Ross Greer (Scottish Greens)

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Greer is not everyone’s cup of tea, but he was handed a gift by Malcolm Offord when the Reform leader showed off about his wealth.

He also mocked the Scottish Tory leader over his subterranean poll rating and previous support for Liz Truss.

Greer will be an influential figure after May 7th.

3/5

Malcolm Offord (Reform)

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Reform’s leader in Scotland was pulled up about racism and thuggery in his party, as well as his previous support for Donald Trump.

His car crash moment was an inexplicable boast about having six homes and five cars during a cost of living crisis, which his rivals will use against him until polling day.

A terrible night.

1/5

​An existing wind turbine is set to be replaced by a new, higher turbine at Magdalen Grange Farm, Carr Lane in Gristhorpe, Filey, after the scheme was given the go-ahead by North Yorkshire Council.

Mark Hutchinson’s plan sought permission for the new turbine in order to increase the efficiency and longevity of the farm’s green infrastructure.

​The previous wind turbine was 24.6 metres to hub height and 34.2 metres to blade tip height.

​According to plans, the new Vesta wind turbine measures 46 metres from the ground to the blade tip and 31.5 metres to the hub.

​Concerns about the proposal were raised by the Ministry of Defence, which said the development was located within its low flying area and it was concerned about “the potential of the turbines creating a physical obstruction to air traffic movements”.

​The MoD said its aircraft may operate as low as 250 feet or 76.2 metres above terrain features in order to conduct low level flight training.

​“The addition of a turbine in this location has the potential to introduce a physical obstruction to low-flying aircraft operating in the area”.

​To address the impact, the MoD requested the addition of a condition requiring that sufficient data is submitted to ensure that the structure can be accurately charted to allow deconfliction.

Magdalen Grange Farm Wind Turbine Location. Google Maps

​No objections to the plan were made by Muston Parish Council.

​According to submitted plans, the turbine requires two standard 16.5m articulated HGVs for delivery, resulting in a total of four HGVs for the development.

​The scheme stated: “As no abnormal loads are required, the highway and transportation impact is minimal and the proposal is therefore considered to have a negligible effect on the local highway network.”

​North Yorkshire Council approved the application, subject to conditions.

Real Madrid have no intention of selling Aurelien Tchouameni to Manchester United this summer, according to reports.

United are in the market for at least one new central midfielder in the summer transfer window with Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Sandro Tonali all on the club’s shortlist.

Tchouameni, who joined Madrid in a €100 million (£85.3m) deal from Monaco four years ago, is also on United’s radar.

However, FootMercato reports that Tchouameni is considered ‘indispensable’ by Madrid and the Spanish club are not looking to sell the midfielder.

The report adds that Madrid are even looking to extend Tchouameni’s contract, which has just two years left to run.

Speaking this week, Rio Ferdinand endorsed United’s interest in Tchouameni but doubted whether the Madrid midfielder would be a realistic option this summer.

‘Tchouameni would be great but is he available? I don’t know if he’s available. His experience is huge,’ Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel.

‘I think he speaks English as well, so that’s not an issue. I think he’s a fantastic footballer.

‘I remember the game France-England in a tournament, I think it was Qatar. He was majestic. He was strong. He was commanding. He’s played in huge games. He has the experience. So I wouldn’t worry about him, I’d be very happy to get him.

‘Baleba has got huge potential but has had a bit of a dip this season from where he was the season before.

‘Anderson I think would be a great signing. Again, Premier League proven, great energy, I think there can be huge improvements, his ceiling is quite high, I think there is more to come from him that you can get out of him at Man United. I think Michael Carrick would be a great tutor for him as well.

‘It’s going to be difficult. Who is available – let’s go from there.’

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“Between the UFC250 Fight, the Great American State Fair, Freedom250 Grand Prix, and this new passport celebrating our freedom, President Trump continues to proudly lead a renewal of national pride and patriotism during our historic semiquincentennial celebration,” they added.

HECK! based in Lime Lane, Kirklington, near Bedale, will host the event on Saturday, May 2, from 10am until 12pm.

Visitors will have the chance to tour the site, meet the team, and learn more about roles in hygiene, production, picking, and the mixing room.

The event follows the success of the company’s first open day, which took place in February and attracted hundreds of people from across the region.

Jackie came to HECK!’s first Jobs Open Day just to take a look, but she walked out with a job offer (Image: HECK!)

Jamie Keeble, co-founder of HECK!, said: “We were thrilled with the response to our first Jobs Open Day,” said HECK! co-founder Jamie Keeble.

“It was fantastic to meet so many enthusiastic people and to showcase what makes working here so unique.

“Food production is exciting, fast-paced and rewarding and we’re excited to open our doors again on 2 May and to continue welcoming new talent into our team.”

Among those who found success at the first event was Jackie, a local resident who attended out of curiosity and left with a job offer.

HECK! HQ in Lime Lane, Kirklington (Image: HECK!)

She initially started as a production supervisor, but her experience in quality control led to a new opportunity within the business.

Jackie said: “Attending the first HECK! jobs open day was a turning point for me.

“I initially stepped into a production supervisor role, but my background in quality control quickly came into play.

“Before long, I was given the opportunity to move into a Technical Coordinator position.

“With my experience from PFF Innovations Plastics in Keighley and years in quality assurance across different industries, it felt like a natural fit.

“Now, I’m proud to support audits, inspections and equipment calibrations across the business, helping strengthen food safety and quality systems so our customers can always receive the highest standard of product.”

Jobseekers of all experience levels are encouraged to attend and discover the variety of roles on offer.

The day will include site tours, team meet-and-greets, a short interview and a behind-the-scenes look at the production line in action.

HECK! one of the largest private employers in the area, is is looking to fill a variety of hands-on roles, including team leaders and team members across the mixing room, picking, hygiene and production departments.

HECK! encourages all attendees to register their interest in advance via its website.