Legislation brought forward by Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon to increase penalty points and fines for those using a hand-held mobile phone while driving comes into effect tomorrow (3 February 2021) for all motorists in Northern Ireland.

Economy Minister Diane Dodds has announced a new £3m scheme to help micro-business retailers develop their sales online. The scheme will open to applications tonight.

Two important roles have been recently filled in the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP).

Agriculture Minister, Edwin Poots MLA has confirmed that a number of changes have now been made to Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) entitlements in 2021. These changes will simplify the application process for farmers and will be reflected in the Entitlements Register, which was published on 31 January this year.

Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has welcomed the distribution of £42.3 million of Covid-19 Heating Payments for older people and those in receipt of certain disability benefits at the highest rates.