Claire Smyth

May 7, 2024 | bbc.com | Claire Smyth

Firefighters will be allowed more time to get to Northern Ireland's most serious fires if proposed changes to response time targets are approved. The fire service wants crews to attend some emergencies within eight minutes - two minutes slower than the current six-minute target. In a video, seen by BBC News NI, it said the proposal will not change "our response to you when you dial 999". However, a DUP assembly member said the plan was a huge concern.

Apr 9, 2024 | bbc.co.uk | Mark Simpson |Claire Smyth

An internal investigation at Portadown Fire Station has heard claims that some on-call firefighters allegedly took a fire engine to a pub. It's also claimed that alcohol was stored in a fridge at the station. Two people have been dismissed after the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) inquiry. NIFRS said a "robust internal investigation into allegations of misconduct" has concluded. The service added that "appropriate action" had been taken in line with its policy.

Dec 12, 2023 | aergohealth.com | Claire Smyth

This begins with Christmas presents.  Every year I try my hardest to guess what Brody would like and pray that I get it right. Yes, it’s hard not knowing exactly what he wants but he tends to like the same types of toys that he has since he was a toddler. And this often means buying very similar things every year. Whatever works. When we wake up on Christmas morning, we bring the children downstairs, and we are lucky that Brody finds it all very exciting as he loves opening presents.

Jul 24, 2023 | news.nestia.com | Claire Smyth

Image source, Pamela Bloomer Image caption, Pamela Bloomer's application was rejected By Claire Smyth BBC News NI More than 5,000 applications for postal and proxy votes in the Northern Ireland council elections were rejected due to problems related to the digital registration number (DRN). Voters are required to provide a DRN when they register online to vote by post or by proxy. It is only a requirement in Northern Ireland.

Jul 24, 2023 | bbc.com | Claire Smyth

Image source, Pamela BloomerImage caption, Pamela Bloomer's application was rejectedMore than 5,000 applications for postal and proxy votes in the Northern Ireland council elections were rejected due to problems related to the digital registration number (DRN). Voters are required to provide a DRN when they register online to vote by post or by proxy. It is only a requirement in Northern Ireland. The figures were revealed by a Freedom of Information request from BBC News NI to the Electoral Office.