ATL News

Downpatrick Leads St Patrick’s Day Celebrations as Thousands Gather Where Ireland’s Patron Saint Is Buried

March 17, 2026 by ATL

Thousands of people gathered across Northern Ireland/The North for St Patrick’s Day celebrations, with Downpatrick at the centre of events marking the life and legacy of Ireland’s patron saint.

Crowds travelled to Downpatrick — traditionally recognised as the burial place of Saint Patrick — where the main celebrations took place.

Events in the town included parades, music and community gatherings, drawing visitors from across Ireland and beyond.

Downpatrick holds a unique place in Irish history, with Down Cathedral widely believed to be the final resting place of St Patrick.

Large crowds were seen around the cathedral grounds and throughout the town as people marked the occasion.

Elsewhere, major celebrations also took place in cities including Belfast, Derry, and Armagh, with parades and cultural events drawing thousands to the streets.

In Downpatrick, the atmosphere was described as both celebratory and reflective, with many visitors choosing to visit the burial site of St Patrick as part of the day’s events.

Families, tourists and local residents gathered to take part in parades featuring marching bands, dancers and community groups, while live music and entertainment continued throughout the day.

Organisers said the strong turnout highlighted the continuing importance of Downpatrick in the story of St Patrick and Ireland’s cultural heritage.

Police from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) maintained a presence across events to ensure public safety and manage crowds.

St Patrick’s Day, celebrated annually on March 17, remains one of the most significant cultural events in Ireland and among Irish communities worldwide.

This year’s celebrations in Downpatrick once again placed the town at the heart of commemorations, bringing thousands together in the place most closely associated with the life and burial of Ireland’s patron saint.

Derry Court Hears Man Left Chainsaw and ‘Murder’ Note on Doorstep in Claimed ‘Prank’

March 17, 2026 by ATL

A court has heard that a man left a chainsaw along with a note reading “murder” on the doorstep of a house in Derry, later claiming the incident was intended as a practical joke.

The case was heard at Derry Magistrates’ Court, where details of the incident were outlined.

The court heard that the chainsaw and note were discovered outside the property, causing alarm for the occupant who found the items.

Police from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) were contacted following the discovery and launched an investigation into the circumstances.

The presence of a chainsaw alongside a note referencing “murder” was treated seriously by officers due to the potential threat implied.

During proceedings, the court was told that the defendant later claimed the act had been intended as a joke rather than a genuine threat.

However, the prosecution outlined how the incident caused fear and concern for the person living at the address.

Incidents involving threatening behaviour or items left at homes are treated seriously by the courts, particularly where they cause distress to victims.

The court considered the circumstances of the case, including the nature of the items involved and the impact on the occupant.

Details of sentencing or further court decisions were not outlined during the hearing.

The case highlights how actions presented as jokes can still be considered serious offences if they cause alarm or distress.

Proceedings in the case have concluded at Derry Magistrates’ Court.

Source: https://www.derryjournal.com/news/courts/man-who-left-chainsaw-and-a-note-saying-murder-on-doorstep-claimed-it-was-a-practical-joke-derry-court-told-5934309

Creggan Home Targeted in Overnight Attack as Councillor Warns of ‘Anger’ in Community

March 17, 2026 by ATL

An overnight attack on a home in the Creggan area of Derry has been strongly condemned, with a local councillor warning of growing anger within the community.

The incident occurred at a property in Creevagh Heights, where damage was caused to the house during what has been described as a targeted attack.

Police from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) are understood to be investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

No serious injuries have been reported, but the attack has left residents shaken.

Local Derry City and Strabane District Council councillor Emma McGinley condemned the incident, describing it as deeply concerning for the local area.

She said there is “a real sense of anger in the local community that those responsible feel they can carry out this violence with impunity.”

Cllr McGinley said incidents of this nature cause significant fear and disruption for families, particularly when homes are targeted.

She called for those responsible to be brought to justice and urged anyone with information to come forward.

The Creggan area has previously experienced incidents of disorder and violence, and community representatives have repeatedly highlighted the need for calm and stability.

Residents in Creevagh Heights have been left concerned following the overnight attack, with many expressing frustration over ongoing incidents in the area.

Police enquiries are ongoing as officers work to establish what happened and identify those responsible.

Source: https://www.derrynow.com/news/home/2040169/attack-on-home-in-creevagh-heights-condemned.html

Derry Councillors Say UK Heating Oil Support ‘Doesn’t Touch the Surface’ of Rising Costs

March 17, 2026 by ATL

Councillors in Derry have warned that funding announced by the British government for households reliant on home heating oil “doesn’t even touch the surface” of the financial pressures facing families.

The criticism comes after support measures were outlined to help households cope with rising energy costs, particularly in areas where homes depend on oil rather than mains gas.

Elected representatives in Derry said many households across Northern Ireland/The North continue to struggle with the cost of heating, especially during colder months when demand increases.

They argued that the level of financial support being provided falls far short of what is required to meet the scale of the problem.

Heating oil is widely used across rural and urban areas in Northern Ireland/The North, leaving many households exposed to fluctuating global oil prices.

Councillors said recent price increases have placed significant strain on family budgets, with some households forced to limit heating use or delay refilling oil tanks.

Speaking about the issue, councillors warned that current support packages are insufficient to provide meaningful relief.

They said the funding “doesn’t even touch the surface” of the costs people are now facing, particularly those on low incomes or fixed budgets.

The issue has become a major concern for many residents, with community representatives reporting growing levels of hardship linked to energy costs.

Calls have been made for additional financial support measures to better reflect the realities faced by households dependent on oil heating.

Energy affordability remains a key political issue across Northern Ireland/The North, with pressure mounting on governments to address rising costs.

Councillors have urged further action to ensure vulnerable households are adequately supported as energy prices continue to fluctuate.

Source: https://www.derryjournal.com/lifestyle/money/british-governments-home-heating-oil-funding-an-insult-to-struggling-families-derry-councillors-6025171

Gardaí expected to launch murder investigation after man, 30s, killed in Cork City stabbing

March 17, 2026 by ATL

Gardaí in Cork City are expected to initiate a murder investigation following the fatal stabbing of a man in his 30s. The incident, which took place recently, has prompted authorities to appeal for witnesses to come forward, particularly targeting taxi drivers and motorists who were in the vicinity at the time of the stabbing. The investigation aims to gather crucial information that could clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.

While specific details regarding the victim’s identity and the exact circumstances of the stabbing have not been disclosed, Gardaí are actively seeking assistance from the public. Witnesses are encouraged to contact local law enforcement to provide any relevant information that may aid in the investigation. The authorities are particularly focused on gathering accounts from individuals who may have witnessed the events leading up to or following the incident.

Further updates from Gardaí are anticipated as they continue their efforts to establish the facts surrounding the case.

BBC clarifies link to new Belfast attraction

March 17, 2026 by

Sinn Féin has voiced its opposition to the BBC’s role as an “anchor tenant” in the proposed Belfast Stories building in Northern Ireland/The North. The party has raised concerns regarding the implications of the BBC’s involvement in this initiative, which aims to serve as a cultural and storytelling hub for the city of Belfast. Sinn Féin’s objections highlight ongoing discussions about the appropriateness of public broadcasting entities participating in local cultural projects.

The Belfast Stories project is intended to celebrate the history and narratives of Belfast and its residents. However, Sinn Féin questions whether the BBC’s presence is in alignment with the interests of the community. This position reflects broader debates concerning the influence of public broadcasting on local culture and the representation of diverse voices within the community.

In response to these concerns, the BBC has clarified its intentions regarding the project. The corporation stated that its involvement is focused on enhancing the offerings of the Belfast Stories initiative and providing valuable resources to the local community. The BBC emphasized its commitment to supporting local storytelling and fostering a deeper understanding of Belfast’s diverse heritage.

As the project progresses, ongoing dialogue between stakeholders, including Sinn Féin and the BBC, is expected as they navigate the complexities associated with this significant cultural development. The outcome of these discussions may influence the project’s direction and its reception within the community.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd6z1dgyd54o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

Arrest after cyclist, 70s, killed in Dublin truck crash

March 17, 2026 by ATL

A man has been arrested in connection with the death of a cyclist in his 70s following a truck crash in Balbriggan, County Dublin. The incident, which occurred recently, has raised significant concerns regarding road safety in the region. While Balbriggan is located in the Republic of Ireland, the implications of such tragic events often resonate across the border into Northern Ireland/The North, where road safety continues to be a pressing issue.

Authorities in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland/The North frequently collaborate on initiatives aimed at reducing road accidents and enhancing safety for all road users. The ongoing investigation into the crash involves local law enforcement agencies from both jurisdictions working together to gather evidence and understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. This cooperative effort highlights a shared commitment to improving road safety across the regions.

Community responses to this tragedy have underscored the urgent need for increased awareness and protective measures for vulnerable road users, particularly cyclists. As the investigation progresses, further information is expected to be released, which may provide additional insights into the factors contributing to this unfortunate event. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the necessity for continued vigilance among all road users in Northern Ireland/The North and beyond.

The tragic loss of life has prompted discussions about the need for enhanced safety measures, including better infrastructure for cyclists and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. Stakeholders in both Northern Ireland/The North and the Republic of Ireland are likely to engage in dialogue to address these concerns and work towards preventing similar incidents in the future.

As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on understanding the circumstances of the crash and ensuring that lessons are learned to improve road safety for all.

Source: https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2026/0316/1563772-collision-balbriggan-dublin/

First look at Belfast International airport's Northern Quarter as it repens following refurbishment

March 17, 2026 by

Belfast International Airport’s Northern Quarter has officially reopened after a comprehensive refurbishment aimed at improving the passenger experience. The renovation, which took several months to complete, focused on modernizing the airport’s facilities to better accommodate travelers.

The revamped Northern Quarter features new seating areas, enhanced signage, and upgraded amenities, all intended to create a more comfortable and efficient environment for passengers. Airport officials have reiterated their commitment to positioning Belfast International Airport as a vital gateway for both domestic and international travel.

This refurbishment is part of a larger strategy to enhance the airport’s infrastructure, which is essential as a transport hub for Northern Ireland/The North. The improvements are designed to support an increasing number of passengers and bolster the region’s tourism and business sectors.

As travel demands continue to evolve, the reopening of the Northern Quarter marks an important milestone in the airport’s ongoing development efforts. Passengers traveling to and from Northern Ireland/The North can now take advantage of the upgraded facilities, which aim to contribute to a more positive travel experience.

The enhancements at Belfast International Airport underscore a commitment to improving the region’s connectivity and accessibility, ensuring that the airport remains a crucial asset for both residents and visitors. The upgrades are expected to play a significant role in facilitating travel and supporting the local economy in the coming years.

Source: https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/first-look-belfast-international-airports-33600807

Demands for Stormont to fund Mental Health Strategy

March 17, 2026 by

Campaigners from Foyle Search and Rescue, PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity, and Rural Support gathered at Stormont on Wednesday to advocate for increased funding for a mental health strategy in Northern Ireland/The North. The event coincided with a meeting of the All-Ministerial Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience, and Suicide Prevention, highlighting the urgent need for action in this area.

Representatives at the gathering emphasized that their collective voices represented more than 6,500 individuals who are affected by mental health issues across Northern Ireland/The North. The campaigners delivered a clear message to government officials, urging them to prioritize mental health funding and implement effective strategies to address the growing concerns surrounding mental wellbeing in the region.

The call for action comes amid ongoing discussions about mental health services in Northern Ireland/The North, which have faced challenges in terms of accessibility and funding. The campaigners underscored the importance of government commitment to mental health initiatives, particularly in light of the rising rates of mental health issues and suicide in the community. They expressed hope that the meeting would lead to concrete steps towards improving mental health support for those in need.

As the discussions continue, the focus remains on ensuring that mental health is treated with the same urgency as physical health, with advocates urging policymakers to take decisive action to support vulnerable populations. The gathering at Stormont serves as a reminder of the critical need for sustained investment in mental health services in Northern Ireland/The North.

Source: https://www.derrynow.com/news/local-news/2039930/demands-for-stormont-to-fund-mental-health-strategy.html

Autism protocol to tackle long delays for assessment of need still not rolled out, HSE says

March 17, 2026 by

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has announced that a protocol intended to address the increasing waiting times for autism assessments has not yet been implemented, despite an initial target for rollout in early February. This delay has raised concerns among families and professionals involved in autism care in Northern Ireland/The North, where similar issues with assessment delays have been reported.

The protocol was designed to streamline the assessment process for children with autism, aiming to reduce the lengthy waiting periods that many families currently face. The HSE’s failure to meet the rollout deadline has prompted criticism from various stakeholders, who argue that timely assessments are crucial for early intervention and support.

In Northern Ireland/The North, the situation mirrors the challenges experienced in the Republic of Ireland, with many families expressing frustration over the lack of progress in addressing these delays. The HSE has not provided a new timeline for the implementation of the protocol, leaving many uncertain about when improvements can be expected.

As discussions continue regarding the necessary reforms to autism services, the impact of these delays on children and their families remains a pressing issue. Advocacy groups are calling for immediate action to ensure that children receive the assessments and support they need without unnecessary waiting periods.

The ongoing situation highlights the need for a coordinated approach to autism services across both Northern Ireland/The North and the Republic of Ireland, as families navigate the complexities of accessing timely care.

Source: https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41811173.html