Aldermen I Burns F Donnelly G A Hatch E Ingram C Lockhart J McCrum P Rankin R W Smith J Speers K J Twyble. The Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor C Seeley

Transcription

1 ARMAGH CITY, BANBRIDGE AND CRAIGAVON BOROUGH COUNCIL MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE COUNCIL MEETING HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, CRAIGAVON CIVIC AND CONFERENCE CENTRE, CRAIGAVON ON 27 JULY 2015 AT 6.30 PM PRESENT: The Lord Mayor, Councillor D Causby Aldermen I Burns F Donnelly G A Hatch E Ingram C Lockhart J McCrum P Rankin R W Smith J Speers K J Twyble Councillors G Barr M T R Baxter J G Buckley M Cairns M Campbell B Curran S Doyle H Gamble S Haughey-Grimley K Haughian D Jones F Lennon D McAlinden C McCusker G McKenna D McNally J Nelson T O Hanlon M J Tinsley M Woods (31) APOLOGIES: IN ATTENDANCE: The Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor C Seeley Councillors D Beattie P Berry C Black P Greenfield G Keating G Kennedy P W J Moutray S Nicholson G Wilson Mr R Wilson, Chief Executive Ms O Murtagh, Strategic Director Place Ms S O Gorman, Strategic Director Position Ms W Geary, Democratic Services Manager Mrs R McClelland, Democratic Services Officer (10) ALSO IN ATTENDANCE: Mr G Coulter, Head of Finance Mr D Mulligan, Area Planning Manager Mr E Kelly, Change Management Officer Mrs L Crawford, Director of Environmental Services (Craigavon) Mr S Fraser, Director of Leisure Services (Craigavon) Mr J Hayes, Head of Building Control, Estates and Asset Management (Armagh) Mr K Cahoon, Parks Development Manager (Craigavon) Mr P McCullough Principal Environmental Health Officer (Environmental Protection) (Armagh) Mrs P Matthews Head of Community Services (Banbridge) Mr D Gibson, Infrastructure & Support Officer (Craigavon) Mrs R Loughran, ICT Assistant (Craigavon) Ms J Cranston, Communications Assistant 1

2 C190/2015 OPENING ANNOUNCEMENTS Condemnation Bomb explosion at Victoria Street, Lurgan (Councillor McNally entered the meeting at 6.33pm) CONDEMNATION: expressed by Councillor Nelson on the Bomb explosion at Victoria Street, Lurgan which had put the lives of people at risk. He wished to highlight the continued problems that existed in the area on the abandoned site known locally as Clendinnings. Local representatives and PSNI had been trying to resolve this issue from 2006 without success. The levels of anti-social behaviour at this site had reached crisis proportions. AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Nelson, seconded by Councillor McAlinden, that the Chief Executive write to the Justice Minister in relation to resolving the issues at the Clendinnings site and seek a meeting in order to obtain funding to secure the site. CONDEMNATION: also expressed by Councillor Haughian who fully condemned those who had planted the device. People in the area had been frustrated, annoyed, disappointed and scared throughout the incident. He concurred that a massive investment was required on the Clendinnings site as it was proving to be an attraction for anti-social behaviour. CONDEMNATION: also expressed by Alderman Lockhart. She concurred that it was important to contact the Justice Minister to seek a meeting and try to secure money for the improvement of the site. She said this bomb attack was an attempt to kill members of the security forces, who worked to keep people safe. It was very clear that no-one in Lurgan wanted these actions and it brought nothing to the area. She said a very clear message needed to be sent out from Council that these actions were not acceptable. She also thanked the Emergency Planning Co-Ordinator, Mr Porter, who had acted very promptly to secure emergency refuge for residents at the local Leisure Centre. Congratulations Waringstown Cavalcade CONGRATULATIONS: expressed by Councillor Woods to Waringstown Cavalcade for another successful event. It had gained over 550 entries with entrants travelling from all across the province. Spectator numbers had increased and over 10,000 had been raised for NI Kidney Fund. He requested that the Lord Mayor, Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby, write to the organisers to congratulate them on the successful event. CONCURRED: by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby, who had also attended the event and confirmed he would write to the organisers. Congratulations Sarah Jane Johnston CONGRATULATIONS: expressed by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby, to Sarah Jane Johnston, NI Special Olympics Team who had been successful in obtaining a Bronze Medal at the Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles. He had met her on a couple of occasions and had wished the team well before they set off to Los Angeles. He also confirmed that he would be hosting a reception for the team upon their return. CONGRATULATIONS: expressed by Alderman Lockhart who said she was very proud of the achievement of this Lurgan lady. 2

3 CONGRATULATIONS: expressed by Councillor McAlinden on behalf of his Party to Sarah Jane on obtaining her Bronze Medal for 100 meter back stroke. He also asked that the helpers at the games, who were from the Borough, be recognised in the most appropriate way. CONGRATULATIONS: expressed by Councillor Haughian on behalf of his Party to Sarah Jane on her achievement. 100 th Anniversary of Gallipoli ADVISED: by Councillor Baxter that Craigavon Borough Council had commemorated the 100 th anniversary of the Great War respectfully last year. He spoke about the Gallipoli campaign and the first land of the Anzacs at Gallipoli on 25 April He said there had been a major British defensive in August 1915, at which quite a few local lives had been lost and asked Council to consider commemorating these lives. AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Baxter, seconded by Councillor Buckley, that a tree be planted by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby, to commemorate the local lives lost during the Gallipoli campaign. Death of Dr John Hinds CONDOLENCES: expressed by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby, on the death of Dr John Hinds, a high profile figure in Motorcycling and a high profile campaigner for an Air Ambulance. He had the pleasure of meeting Dr Hinds at the Tandragee 100 this year. CONDOLENCES: also expressed by Councillor Jones on the death of Dr Hinds. He had been saddened to hear he had lost his life at Skerries 100. He had been an anaesthetist at Craigavon Area Hospital and an avid supporter of the campaign for an air ambulance. Councillor Jones supported this campaign and said an Air Ambulance would assist not only at motorsport events, but also in any other accident where fast transportation of the patient to hospital was required. CONCURRED: by Councillor Barr, the comments of Councillor Jones. He requested that petitions be placed in all Council buildings so that additional signatures could be obtained to support the online petition. AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Jones, seconded by Councillor Barr, that the Council support the provision of an Air Ambulance for Northern Ireland; and that petitions be placed in all Council buildings so that additional signatures could be obtained to support the online petition. CONDOLENCES: expressed by Alderman Smith who said this was a sad loss to Craigavon Area Hospital Trust as a service and to those Dr Hinds served, both within the hospital and as a motorbike enthusiast. He passed on his condolences to Dr Hinds family and friends. He said his Party would be in support of an Air Ambulance and advised that the Finance Minister had said that 2.2million was required to run the service. He said lives would be saved by the establishment of such a service. 3

4 COUNCIL MINUTES C191/2015 COUNCIL MEETING 22 JUNE 2015 AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor O Hanlon, seconded by Councillor Doyle, that the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 22 June 2015 having been previously circulated, be confirmed and signed as a correct record. Matters Arising C192/2015 LEISURE CENTRE OPENING HOURS (C122/2015) CONCERN: expressed by Alderman Lockhart that the matter had not been progressed. She said the current hours did not accommodate park users. She had also received complaints regarding the level of cleanliness of Leisure Centres. She sought assurance that regular checks were carried out around cleanliness. ADVISED: by the Director of Leisure Services (Craigavon) that work was ongoing in relation to opening hours and a report would be presented to the September meeting of the Leisure & Community Services Committee. In relation to the issue of cleanliness he would speak to the Leisure Centre Managers to ensure the levels of cleanliness were up to standard. QUERIED: by Alderman Speers why a ticket to swim, purchased in an Armagh facility could not be used within another facility within the Borough. RESPONDED: by the Director of Leisure Services (Craigavon) that he would again speak to the mangers of the Leisure Centres in relation to this matter. He said that a report on harmonisation and integration of services would be brought to the September meeting of the Leisure & Community Services Committee. C193/2015 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST COMMITTEE MINUTES No declarations of interest were made during the meeting. C194/2015 PERFORMANCE AND AUDIT COMMITTEE 25 JUNE 2015 AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Nelson, seconded by Alderman Smith, that the Minutes of the Performance and Audit Committee, held on 25 June 2015, having been previously circulated, be confirmed and signed as a correct record and adopted. C195/2015 PLANNING AND REGULATORY SERVICES COMMITTEE 8 JULY 2015 AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Lennon, seconded by Councillor Curran, that the Minutes of the Planning and Regulatory Services Committee, held on 8 July 2015, having been previously circulated, be confirmed and signed as a correct record and adopted. 4

5 Matters Arising C196/2015 DELEGATED POWER TO PLANNING AND REGULATORY SERVICES COMMITTEE QUERIED: by Alderman Lockhart why the minutes required a proposer and seconder as the Planning and Regulatory Services Committee had delegated authority. ADVISED: by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby that the delegated authority applied to the planning decisions only and all other decisions required Council approval, as did the minutes. C197/2015 PLANNING APPLICATION TIMESCALES CONCERN: raised by Councillor Nelson about the length of time taken to process applications. He said constituents were unable to get information directly from Planning Officers in that regard. The response time was unacceptable, as was the length of time it was taking to process the application. He queried what the key performance indicators were in relation to the turnaround of a planning application that could be taken under delegated authority. DISAPPOINTMENT: expressed by the Area Planning Manager that anyone was experiencing difficulty in accessing Planning Officers and he undertook to look into and address this matter. He said that they operated a system through NI Direct which included a time frame from DOE. He advised if anyone had trouble accessing a Planning Officer to advise him. He explained the breakdown of response times in relation to local applications and major applications, which was set by DOE NI Local Government Performance Indicators. CONCERN: raised by Alderman Lockhart that a statutory consultee had not responded within their 21 day deadline. She said as this had been a Council department that had failed to respond it did not send out a good message to the public. DISAPPOINTMENT: again expressed by Area Planning Manager. He undertook to address this matter and offered to speak to the Member after the meeting. (Councillor McKenna left the meeting temporarily at 7.09pm). CONCERN: expressed by Councillor O Hanlon in relation to the volume of work to be undertaken by the Planning Office and queried if they currently had the necessary resources to cope with this. ADVISED: by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby, that Councillor O Hanlon s comments were duly noted and that the Area Planning Manager would look into this and report back through the Planning & Regulatory Services Committee. 5

6 CHIEF EXECUTIVE S REPORT PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: copy report C C198/2015 ST PATRICK S FESTIVAL LETTER OF OFFER AGREED: on the proposal of Alderman Speers, seconded by Councillor O Hanlon, that the Letter of Offer of funding from Tourism Northern Ireland for St Patrick s International Festival be accepted. REQUESTED: by Councillor O Hanlon that officers engage with their counterparts in other Councils to explore partnership opportunities in relation to festivals and that a report be brought back detailing proposals. REQUESTED: by Alderman Hatch that as Craigavon Borough Council had been twinned with Ballina, could this twinning be extended to the new Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Mayo County Council. QUERIED: by Alderman Donnelly the difference in the amount of funding received from Tourism NI over the last 3 years, in comparison to that provided to Newry, Mourne and Down Council. She also asked if any arrangements had yet been made for key acts for next year s St Patricks Festival. ADVISED: by the Strategic Director Place that a report would be brought to the September Economic Development and Regeneration Committee outlining the Key Performance Indicators that Council needed to achieve and the proposals for the programme. The Strategic Director Place also advised that no arrangements had yet been made in relation to the St Patricks Festival. (Councillor McKenna re-entered the meeting at 7.15pm. Alderman Smith retired from the meeting at this time). REQUESTED: by Alderman Lockhart that Officers look at wider twinning and linkages than what had been in the legacy Councils. She requested details of what stage any existing twinning or linkages were currently at and felt that no links should be established at this stage. AGREED: on the proposal of Alderman Lockhart, seconded by Councillor Buckley, that a working group be established to explore cultural linkages and funding opportunities. ASSURANCE: was sought by Alderman Lockhart that no correspondence had been sent confirming any linkages with the new Council. The Strategic Director Place confirmed that no arrangements had been made in relation to new linkages. She advised that some continuity, made by legacy Council, may require to be finalised but no new arrangements had been taken forward. DISAPPOINTMENT: expressed by Councillor Haughey-Grimley that the funding for the incoming year for St Patricks Festival was lower than previous years. She concurred with Alderman Donnelly that planning for next year s event should be progressed urgently. She welcomed the report that would be coming to the Economic Development and Regeneration Committee in September and hoped this matter would be made a priority. She also welcomed the international aspect as Armagh had a lot to showcase and Council needed to make sure the theme Made in Armagh was retained. She felt the success of the festival was also down to the community aspect and groups taking ownership. She emphasised that it needed to be a community based parade. 6

7 ADVISED: by the Chief Executive that a report would be brought to Strategy and Community Planning Committee in relation to linkages and that a working group would then be established. REQUESTED: by Councillor Buckley that the Strategic Director Place and relevant Officers engage with local businesses to gauge their experience in relation to linkages. ADVISED: by Alderman Speers that he recalled a discussion at PLF where it had been agreed that a report be brought to Strategy and Community Planning Committee to provide an update on where Council stood in relation to linkages. He looked forward to debating this report to reach the most advantageous approach moving forward. CONCERN: expressed by Councillor Baxter that PLF were not a decision making body and any matters for decision required to come to Committee for a recommendation to Council. (Alderman Burns left the meeting temporarily at 7.27pm). C199/2015 ARMAGH, BANBRIDGE & CRAIGAVON STRATEGIC REVITALISATION PROJECT NOTED: the confirmation of funding from DSD in the amount of 200,000 for the Strategic Revitalisation Project. AGREED: on the proposal of Alderman Lockhart, seconded by Alderman Speers, that delegated authority be given to the Chief Executive for the award of professional fees and works contracts for the various capital elements of the scheme to enable delivery of the project within the required timescales. REQUESTED: by Alderman Lockhart a reminder of the projects submitted to DSD and what funding had been awarded. The Strategic Director Place undertook to circulate this information to Members. (Alderman Burns re-entered the meeting at 7.29pm). C200/2015 IMPROVEMENTS TO PUBLIC DOMAIN (Councillor Baxter left the meeting temporarily at 7.32pm). DISAPPOINTMENT: expressed by Councillor Nelson by the lack of response from Roads Service, despite a number of s and letters being sent. ADVISED: by Councillor Tinsley that she was not in agreement to have further discussions. As it was not Council s responsibility to cut grass why should ratepayers money be used to provide a service that DRD were responsible for as this was taking funds away from other projects. (Councillor Baxter re-entered the meeting at 7.34pm). CONCURRED: by Councillor Curran with Councillor Tinsley s comments. He felt it was unfair to ask ratepayers to fund grass cutting as it was DRD s responsibility. 7

8 CONCURRED: also by Alderman Lockhart with Councillor Tinsley s comments. She said the Minister for Regional Development had disallowed his Departmental staff from engaging with external contractors. PROPOSED: by Alderman Lockhart, seconded by Councillor Tinsley, that the Minister for Regional Development be invited to the Borough to view the lack of grass cutting by DRD. ADVISED: by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby that DRD had a contingency of 4.5million for compensation claims for vehicles damaged by potholes etc. and felt this was not acceptable. ADVISED: by Councillor Doyle that DRD workers had a fuel allocation and once this was expended they were unable to leave the depot. ADVISED: by Alderman Speers that it seemed DRD had to prioritise their duties and Road Safety was top of their priorities. It was a regrettable position but the safety of citizens was paramount. He said Council needed to reflect how they wished to present the Borough to visitors in the wider context. ADVISED: by Councillor Baxter that potholes in urban areas would not be fixed unless they were 4 deep. He contacted DRD Roads to request that a sightline be cut at a junction. When he had been advised by DRD that this had been completed he went to check and found that only one side of the road had been cut as the other side belonged to another District, which he felt was unacceptable. Craigavon had the largest industrial hub outside Belfast and felt the uncut grass would not encourage foreign investment in the area. ADVISED: by Councillor O Hanlon that he was in support of the recommendation that Officers should be allowed to hold exploratory talks with DRD Roads. DISAGREEMENT: expressed by Councillor McKenna. She said Council had a responsibility to hold DRD to account and it was not Council s responsibility to do their work. PROPOSED: by Alderman Lockhart, seconded by Councillor Haughian, that positive PR be sent out from Council stating Council was maintaining their grass cutting responsibilities and the uncut grass was DRD s responsibility. CAUTION: expressed by Councillor Gamble that a short term solution would cause a long term problem and urged caution on how Council moved forward. PROPOSED: by Councillor O Hanlon, seconded by Alderman Speers, that approval be granted for Officers to have further discussions with Departmental officials regarding Council maintaining sites of strategic importance across the Borough. ADVISED: by Councillor Curran that any discussions would be one sided if it was in relation to Council maintaining grass. He suggested amending the recommendation to discuss maintaining the area and that one Member from each Party be included in the discussions. Councillor O Hanlon agreed to amend his proposal so that the word Council was removed from the recommendation. SUGGESTED: by Alderman Lockhart that all proposals be combined into one. 8

9 ADVISED: by Alderman Speers that he felt this was not the most helpful way forward by summonsing the Minister to the Borough and could therefore not second the amended proposal. PROPOSED: by Councillor O Hanlon, seconded by Councillor Baxter, that approval be granted for Officers and one Member from each Party to hold further discussions with Departmental officials regarding maintaining sites of strategic importance across the Borough; that the Minister for Regional Development be invited to the Borough to view the lack of grass cutting by DRD; and that positive PR be sent out from Council stating Council was maintaining their grass cutting responsibilities and the uncut grass was DRD s responsibility. The Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby, called for a vote on Councillor O Hanlon s proposal, the result of which were as follows: FOR : 29 AGAINST : 7 ABSTENTIONS : NIL The Lord Mayor declared Councillor O Hanlon s proposal CARRIED. AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor O Hanlon, seconded by Councillor Baxter, that approval be granted for Officers and one Member from each Party to hold further discussions with Departmental officials regarding maintaining sites of strategic importance across the Borough; that the Minister for Regional Development be invited to the Borough to view the lack of grass cutting by DRD; and that positive PR be sent out from Council stating Council was maintaining their grass cutting responsibilities and the uncut grass was DRD s responsibility. (Aldermen Donnelly and Lockhart and Councillors Gamble and Nelson left the meeting temporarily at 8.08pm. The Parks Manager retired from the meeting at this time). C201/2015 SECRETARY OF STATE S GARDEN PARTY (Aldermen Donnelly and Lockhart re-entered the meeting at 8.09pm). PROPOSED: by Alderman Speers, seconded by Councillor O Hanlon, that the tickets be distributed as per the Banbridge method. Officers to select recipients from the local community based on the chosen theme for the Garden Party and that the list be circulated to Party Leaders. (Councillor Nelson re-entered the meeting at 8.10pm). PROPOSED: by Councillor Baxter, seconded by Councillor Tinsley, that the tickets be distributed as per Craigavon method. Members were allocated tickets based on Party strength and selected recipients from the local community based on the chosen theme for the Garden Party. (Councillor Gamble re-entered the meeting at 8.11pm). REQUESTED: by Councillor O Hanlon that in the absence of a policy for this matter that Officers draw up a policy prior to next year s event. CONCERN: expressed by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby, that if a community group was not on a Council list they would not be eligible to be considered. 9

10 PROPOSED: by Alderman Lockhart that tickets be distributed to Parties as per the report and the Parties distribute the tickets themselves. ADVISED: by Councillor Baxter that should Alderman Lockhart s proposal be accepted, he would withdraw his proposal. CONFIRMED: by Alderman Speers that his proposal still stood. CLARIFIED: by Councillor Baxter that as Alderman Lockhart s proposal was not accepted, that his proposal also still stood. CONCERN: raised by Councillor Buckley that only Party Leaders would have an input into the distribution of tickets. SUGGESTED: by Councillor Doyle that the list of recipients be circulated to all Members, not just Party Leaders. The Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby, called for a vote on Alderman Speers proposal, the result of which were as follows: FOR : 17 AGAINST : 9 ABSTENTIONS : 3 DID NOT VOTE : 1 The Lord Mayor declared Alderman Speers proposal CARRIED. AGREED: on the proposal of Alderman Speers, seconded by Councillor O Hanlon, that Officers select recipients from the local community based on the chosen theme for the Garden Party and that the list be circulated to all Members. C202/2015 TRANSLINK ULSTER IN BLOOM ULSTERBUS TOURS COMMUNITY CHAMPION AWARD 2015 (Alderman Donnelly and Councillors Haughian and Tinsley left the meeting temporarily at 8.21pm). AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Baxter, seconded by Alderman Lockhart that any Member wishing to nominate individuals from within the areas entered into the 2015 Ulster in Bloom Competition, contact the Democratic Services Manager C203/2015 PORTADOWN MAIN STREET FLOWERS QUERIED: by Alderman Hatch why there were no McGredy roses in Portadown Main Street. Members had previously been advised that no plants could be planted due to services, but there were trees planted. He felt that Members had been misled. ADVISED: by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby that he too wished McGredy roses to be planted in Portadown town centre and suggested this could be raised at a future meeting of the appropriate Committee for further discussion. (Councillor Tinsley re-entered the meeting at 8.23pm). C204/2015 CONSULTATION DOCUMENTS FROM EXTERNAL ORGANISATIONS (Aldermen Speers and Twyble and Councillor Buckley left the meeting temporarily at 8.24pm. Councillor Haughian re-entered the meeting at this time. Councillor Baxter left the meeting temporarily at 8.25pm. The Director of Environmental Services (Craigavon) retired from the meeting at 8.26pm). 10

11 QUERIED: by Councillor O Hanlon, consultation on EIRGRID re North-South 400IV Interconnection Development. He said that Armagh City and District Council had a proposal to oppose the matter and sought clarification. (Alderman Twyble re-entered the meeting at 8.27pm). ADVISED: by the Change Management Officer that the matter had been discussed with the Planning Officers and Environmental Health Officers earlier in the day. The Area Planning Manager advised if Members had any comments, concerns or issues that they wished to raised that these be conveyed to Planning Service to raise on their behalf. (Alderman Speers re-entered the meeting at 8.28pm. Alderman Burns retired from the meeting at this time). AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor O Hanlon, seconded by Councillor Haughey-Grimley, that the consultation documents and responses be approved, with the exception of #10 EIRGRID re North-South 400IV Interconnection Development be held for 1 month to enable a Notice of Motion in relation to this, to be taken to the August Council Meeting. ADVISED: by Alderman Hatch that Council did not have much time to respond to consultation #4 DHSSPS Review of HSC Commissioning Arrangements, but that individual responses could still be submitted. CONCURRED: by Councillor Nelson with Alderman Hatch s comments. (Councillors Baxter and Buckley re-entered the meeting at 8.31pm). C205/2015 RESPONSE TO THE DRAFT FLUORINATED GREENHOUSE GASES REGULATIONS (NI) 2015 AGREED: on the proposal of Alderman Hatch, seconded by Alderman Twyble, that the draft response to the consultation on the draft Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (NI) 2015 be approved and submitted. C206/2015 DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE CONSULTATION DRAFT NORTHERN IRELAND HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND EXPLOITATION STRATEGY 2015/16 WELCOMED: by Councillor Tinsley, the response to this consultation and she commended the work Lord Morrow had done on this matter. CONCURRED: by Alderman Hatch with Councillor Tinsley s comments. He hoped the outcome of this strategy would bring a more multiagency approach. He added that Northern Ireland Migration Partnership had not been included on the targeted consultees and they may have an opinion on the matter and requested this be included in the response. (Councillor Haughey-Grimley left the meeting temporarily at 8.37pm). AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Tinsley, seconded by Alderman Hatch, that, including the additional comments made by Alderman Hatch, the draft response to the consultation on the Northern Ireland Human Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy 2015/16 be approved and submitted. (The Principal Environmental Health Officer (Environmental Protection) (Armagh) retired from the meeting at 8.37pm). 11

12 C207/2015 THE INSTITUTE OF REVENUES RATING AND VALUATION (IRRV) NORTHERN IRELAND CONFERENCE (Councillor Barr left the meeting temporarily at 8.38pm). AGREED: on the proposal of Alderman Speers, seconded by Alderman Hatch, that the attendance of the Chair of the Governance, Policy and Resources Committee at the IRRV NI Conference 2015 be approved. (The Head of Community Services (Banbridge) retired from the meeting at 8.39pm). C208/2015 PROPOSED TRAFFIC CALMING SCHEME AT CAMBRIA HEIGHTS, CAMBRIA PARK, OAKTREE MANOR, THE GRANARY AND THE CLOSE, WARINGSTOWN AGREED: that any comments from Members be forwarded the CE s office and the views of Council be submitted to Transport NI prior to the closing date. (Councillor Nelson left the meeting temporarily at 8.39pm. The Area Planning Manager retired from the meeting at this time). C209/2015 PROPOSED TRAFFIC CALMING SCHEME AT DRUMBREDA AVENUE AND DRUMBREDA CRESCENT, ARMAGH AGREED: that any comments from Members be forwarded to the CE s office and the views of Council be submitted to Transport NI prior to the closing date. (Councillor Doyle left the meeting temporarily at 8.40pm. Councillors Barr and Haughey-Grimley re-entered the meeting at this time). QUERIED: by Councillor Baxter why these matters were being brought to Council. ADVISED: by the Chief Executive that Officers were reviewing how best to bring these issues to the attention of Members. C210/2015 PROPOSED ABANDONMENT OF GILPINSTOWN ROAD, LURGAN CONCERN: raised by Alderman Lockhart in relation to abandonments. She sought clarification if this meant that the land would become no-ones responsibility and how Members would make representation in relation to abandoned areas. (Councillor Doyle re-entered the meeting at 8.43pm). ADVISED: by the Chief Executive that this particular abandonment was regularising the situation on this site. He undertook to look into the issue of how Members would make representation in relation to abandoned areas. COMMENTED: by Alderman Hatch that usually there would be an agreement between DRD and another land owner who would be taking on responsibility for the land before DRD would move to abandon it. (Councillor Nelson re-entered the meeting at 8.44pm. Councillor Haughian retired from the meeting at this time). AGREED: that any comments from Members be forwarded to the CE s office and the views of Council be submitted to Transport NI prior to the closing date. 12

13 C211/2015 ADVANCE NOTICE OF DELISTING OF 71 BALLYNAFOY ROAD, BALLYNASKEAGH, BANBRIDGE For Information AGREED: that any comments from Members be forwarded to the CE s office and the views of Council be submitted to the DOE s Historic Environment Division prior to the closing date. C212/ SWIM INITIATIVE AT BANBRIDGE LEISURE CENTRE DISAPPOINTMENT: expressed by Alderman Lockhart that her proposal made at the last Council meeting had not been implemented. ADVISED: by Councillor McKenna that the matter of increasing indoor leisure usage required a full discussion at Leisure and Community Services Committee. (Councillor Woods retired from the meeting at 8.47pm). AGREED: that 1 per swim initiative be implemented immediately in all facilities. SCHEDULE OF CORRESPONDENCE C213/2015 FUNDING FOR NI LIBRARIES NOTED: the response from DCAL dated 5 June 2015, to correspondence from Council seeking an uplift in the Libraries NI budget for 2015/16. C214/2015 DEVELOPMENT AT SCARVA HEIGHTS, SCARVA NOTED: the correspondence received from Transport NI to advise that Stages 1, 2 & 3 of the aforementioned street works were adopted on 24 June C215/2015 DEVELOPMENT AT CORNMARKET COURT, TANDRAGEE NOTED: the correspondence received from Transport NI to advise that Stage 1 of the aforementioned street works were adopted on 7 July C216/ MULLAHEAD ROAD, TANDRAGEE, BT62 2LA NOTED: the correspondence received from DOE advising that the aforementioned property, including walling, gates and gate piers, had been included on the list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest. C217/2015 DEVELOPMENT AT OAK GROVE, SCARVA ROAD, BANBRIDGE NOTED: the correspondence received from Transport NI to advise that Stage 1 of the aforementioned street works were adopted on 8 July C218/2015 THE BIRCHES POST OFFICE NOTED: the correspondence received from the Post Office to advise of the temporary closure of the aforementioned Post Office on 3 July

14 ITEMS FOR CORPORATE SEAL PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: copy report C C219/2015 LEASE BETWEEN DARD AND ABC RE PLAYPARK AT GOSFORD FOREST PARK IN TRIPLICATE AGREED: on the proposal of Alderman Speers, seconded by Councillor Doyle, that the aforementioned documents be signed and sealed. C220/2015 GRAVE CERTIFICATES BANBRIDGE PUBLIC CEMETERY, BANBRIDGE AGREED: on the proposal of Alderman Speers, seconded by Councillor Doyle, that that grave certificates in relation to the following cemetery be signed and sealed: Banbridge Public Cemetery, Banbridge. AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor McKenna, seconded by Councillor Baxter, that the Council moves into Committee. SCHEDULE OF CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: copy report C Council Meeting 22 June 2015 C221/2015 FAIRVIEW HOUSE REPAIRS AND REMEDIAL WORKS TENDER AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Baxter, seconded by Councillor Buckley, that the confidential report, having been previously circulated, be confirmed and signed as a correct record. C222/2015 CENTRAL SERVICES DEPOT ROOF REPLACEMENT TENDER AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Baxter, seconded by Councillor Buckley, that the confidential report, having been previously circulated, be confirmed and signed as a correct record. C223/2015 ARMAGH RESERVES PROJECT AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Baxter, seconded by Councillor Buckley, that the confidential report, having been previously circulated, be confirmed and signed as a correct record. C224/2015 UPDATE ON INTERIM DIRECTOR POST AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Baxter, seconded by Councillor Buckley, that the confidential report, having been previously circulated, be confirmed and signed as a correct record. A confidential report on the above matter can be found at Appendix 1 in the Schedule of Confidential Business. 14

15 Planning and Regulatory Services Committee 8 July 2015 C225/2015 APPLICATION NO: N/2014/0426/F OPEN DOOR HOUSING ASSOCIATION AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Buckley, seconded by Councillor Lennon, that the confidential report, having been previously circulated, be confirmed and signed as a correct record. A confidential report on the above matter can be found at Appendix 1 in the Schedule of Confidential Business. (During the above item of business Alderman Lockhart left the meeting temporarily at 9.01pm, re-entering at 9.06pm. Councillor McAlinden retired from the meeting at this time. Councillor Cairns retired from the meeting at 9.07pm. Councillor Nelson left the meeting temporarily at 9.12pm. Councillor Haughey-Grimley retired from the meeting at 9.14pm). CHIEF EXECUTIVE S REPORT CONFIDENTIAL MATTERS PREVIOUSLY CIRCULATED: copy report C C226/2015 TENDER AWARD FOR A THEMED PROJECTION LIGHT SHOW AT GEORGIAN DAY ARMAGH A confidential report on the above matter can be found at Appendix 2 in the Schedule of Confidential Business. C227/2015 BRIDGEWATER HOUSE ACQUISITION A confidential report on the above matter can be found at Appendix 2 in the Schedule of Confidential Business. C228/2015 CRAIGAVON CIVIC AND CONFERENCE CENTRE ACCOMMODATION REFURBISHMENT WORKS TENDER REPORT A confidential report on the above matter can be found at Appendix 2 in the Schedule of Confidential Business. C229/2015 ARMAGH ATHLETIC GROUND A confidential report on the above matter can be found at Appendix 2 in the Schedule of Confidential Business. C230/2015 BANBRIDGE MASTERPLAN A confidential report on the above matter can be found at Appendix 2 in the Schedule of Confidential Business. AGREED: on the proposal of the Alderman McCrum, seconded by Councillor Buckley, that Council moves Out of Committee. FURTHER AGREED: on the proposal of Councillor Baxter, seconded by Councillor Buckley, that Council adopts the decisions made In Committee. 15

16 ANY OTHER BUSINESS C231/2015 OVERGROWN ABANDONED BUILDING SITES QUERIED: by Alderman Ingram who she should contact in relation to overgrown abandoned building sites causing distress to residents. ADVISED: by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Causby that details of same be passed to relevant Officers. C232/2015 KEADY WORKING GROUP REQUESTED: by Councillor O Hanlon that a meeting of the Keady Working Group be convened to facilitate completion of business. The business having been completed, the meeting concluded at 9.36pm. SIGNED:- LORD MAYOR: CHIEF EXECUTIVE: DATE: 24 August

17 Agenda Item 6.0 Report No C Report to: Council Meeting Date: 27 July 2015 ITEMS FOR DECISION 6.1 ST. PATRICK S FESTIVAL LETTER OF OFFER Purpose Decision Required: To ratify acceptance of the Letter of Offer of funding from Tourism Northern Ireland for St Patrick s International Festival Link to Corporate Plan Corporate Priority under People Directorate Culture: Host major events to showcase the Cultural Significance of the area locally and abroad. Corporate Priority under the Place Directorate Economy: Increase the tourism, hospitality and entertainment economy Lead Reporting Officer Olga Murtagh, Strategic Director - PLACE BACKGROUND At the meeting of the Economic Development and Regeneration Committee held on 9 th June 2015, Members were updated on the proposals for the St Patrick s International Festival for Northern Ireland which will take place over Armagh and Downpatrick. Committee were advised that Tourism Northern Ireland (TNI) had awarded funding for the proposed festival for a period of three years and that Council were awaiting receipt of the Letter of Offer. The total funding offer of 293,446 has been allocated over the following three year period: , , ,140

18 Since the Committee meeting in June, the Letter of Offer has now been received (Appendix 1) DETAIL The proposed St Patrick s International Festival will be held over a number of days around St Patrick s Day in March of each year. It intends to capitalise on the international status and recognition of St Patrick and will reinforce this iconic association with Northern Ireland. The festival in 2016 is recognised by Tourism Northern Ireland as a foundation year and as it will be organised and delivered by Armagh City Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council and Newry Mourne and Down District Council across Armagh and Downpatrick additional stakeholders including, Tourism Ireland, Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Invest NI will be requested to support the development of the festival. Further reports on the development and programming of the festival will be provided to the Economic Development and Regeneration Committee DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any declarations of interest to be made in relation to this item RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council accept the Letter of Offer from Tourism NI for the St Patrick s International Festival in the sum of 293,446 to Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Newry Mourne and Down District Council ARMAGH, BANBRIDGE & CRAIGAVON STRATEGIC REVITALISATION PROJECT Purpose Decisions Required: Members are asked to note the confirmation of funding from DSD in the amount of 200,000 for the Strategic Revitalisation Project Members are requested to delegate authority to the Chief Executive for the award of professional fees and works contracts for the various capital elements of the scheme as outlined, to enable delivery of the project within the required timescales. Link to Corporate Plan Lead Officer Corporate Priority under Place Directorate Support business development and business growth, maximise external funding opportunities and progress existing regeneration plans. Olga Murtagh, Strategic Director - PLACE

19 6.2.1 BACKGROUND Members approved contributory funding of 130,000 towards the completion of capital projects as proposed under the Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Strategic Revitalisation Project at the June Economic Development & Regeneration Committee. Subsequent to this, DSD have confirmed match funding for the overall project of 200,000. The overall cost of implementing the Project is 330, DETAIL Officers are continuing to progress the various elements proposed under the Strategic Revitalisation Project, including the capital projects, and the Contract for Funding will require that all elements of the project be completed by 31 st March As a result delegated authority is sought to progress the project to meet the required timescales. The costs of the various capital elements of the project are outlined for information: PROJECT ELEMENT COST Redevelopment of the Johnston Building 85,000 Regeneration at the cut Banbridge 40,000 Public Realm works Environmental Improvements at the 150,000 Pump House Portadown DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any declarations of interest in relation to this matter RECOMMENDATION Members are asked to note the confirmation of funding from DSD in the amount of 200,000 for the Strategic Revitalisation Project. Members are requested to delegate authority to the Chief Executive for the award of professional fees and works contracts for the capital elements of the scheme as outlined, to enable delivery of the project within the required timescales.

20 6.3 IMPROVEMENTS TO PUBLIC DOMAIN Purpose Decision(s) Required: Approval sought for Officers to have further discussions with Departmental officials regarding Council maintaining sites of strategic importance across the Borough. Link to Corporate Plan Lead Reporting Officer Corporate Priority under People Directorate Community: Create welcoming communities and neighbourhoods Roger Wilson, Chief Executive BACKGROUND Following comments from Members of lack of grass cutting, by Transport NI, across the Borough, officers met with representatives of Transport NI and the NIHE on 9 th July DETAIL At the meeting, Mr Ian Campbell, Section Engineer, Transport NI, confirmed that:- All safety related areas, such as sight lines are being cut and that all other areas will receive one cut between April and September 2015 but Transport NI cannot specify a time for any identified area. Weeds in Craigavon/Banbridge area will be sprayed mid- August It was unlikely that further funding will become available as a result of the June monitoring round and even if money was reallocated Transport NI have limited plant to carry out the work. Officers explored the possibility of using Council resources but all Council plant is being fully utilised at present. Members will be aware that the Regeneration and Development Strategy aims to promote the area as a regional economic driver. To encourage investment it is important that the key strategic gateways into the area are welcoming and aesthetically pleasing. If Transport NI is unable to undertake this work Council may wish to intervene to assist with economic growth and promotion of the Borough. Exploratory discussion took place to ascertain potential barriers should Council wish to take on the maintenance of a limited number of key strategic sites. Transport NI raised a number of issues that would require to be resolved but there was broad agreement that if Council wished to undertake this work the barriers were not insurmountable but would necessitate discussions at a Departmental level. The issue regarding lack of response to Members communications was also addressed and Mr Campbell gave assurances that Transport NI was adhering to its customer charter with all correspondence being answered within 15 days. He

21 stressed that all correspondence needs to be sent to the generic address rather than a named individual to ensure this happens DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST None RECOMMENDATION That Members approve further exploratory discussions with Departmental officials regarding Council maintaining sites of strategic importance to the economic growth and promotion of the Borough. 6.4 SECRETARY OF STATE S GARDEN PARTY Purpose Decision Required: Members are asked to consider how they wish to distribute tickets for the garden party. If the option of allocation on party strength is chosen, parties are requested to advise the Democratic Services Manager of the details of their nominees by Wednesday 29 July Link to Corporate Plan Corporate Priority under People Directorate Serve the People Well Being; Encourage active citizenship and Volunteering. Community; Celebrate diversity, promote equality and good relations to build a peaceful shared society. Lead Reporting Officer Roger Wilson, Chief Executive BACKGROUND Correspondence has been received from the Northern Ireland Office in relation to the Secretary of State s Garden Party at Hillsborough Castle which will take place in September DETAIL The letter invites Council to nominate individuals to be invited to the Garden Party. A total of 66 places (33 nominees plus a guest each) have been allocated to Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. In addition to the above allocation, Council has been requested to include details of the Lord Mayor of the former Armagh City and District Council, the Chairman of the former Banbridge District Council and the Mayor of the former Craigavon Borough Council, who left office in March The current Lord Mayor will be included in the guest list in 2016.

22 Those nominated should not have previously attended a Garden Party. The Secretary of State has indicated that this is a good opportunity to reach out to people from a range of backgrounds and has asked that a special effort be made to invite those involved in cross-community shared future work. Members are asked to note that the former Councils dealt with this issue in different ways Armagh invitations were issued to the recipients of the Mayor s Awards Banbridge officers selected recipients from the local community based on the chosen theme for the Garden Party Craigavon Members were allocated tickets based on Party strength and selected recipients from the local community based on the chosen theme for the Garden Party If Members were to decide to allocate these tickets based on party strength, this would result as follows based on 33 pairs of tickets DUP - 11 tickets UUP - 10 tickets Sinn Fein - 7 tickets SDLP - 5 tickets If Parties wish to use their ticket allocation, they are asked to advise the Democratic Services Manager of the details of their nominees and guests (including names, addresses and position held or reason for nomination) by Wednesday 29 July DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any declarations of interest in relation to this matter RECOMMENDATION Members are asked to consider how they wish to distribute tickets for the garden party. If the option of allocation on party strength is chosen, parties are requested to advise the Democratic Services Manager of the details of their nominees by Wednesday 29 July 2015.

23 6.5 TRANSLINK ULSTER IN BLOOM ULSTERBUS TOURS COMMUNITY CHAMPION AWARD 2015 Purpose Decision Required: Members are invited to nominate individuals from within the areas entered in the 2015 Ulster in Bloom Competition, that they believe deserve to be awarded the Ulster Bus Tours Community Champion Link to Corporate Plan Corporate Priority under People Directorate Community Create welcoming communities and neighbourhoods Lead Reporting Officer Roger Wilson, Chief Executive BACKGROUND Council is being asked to nominate up to 3 individuals for the Ulsterbus Tours Community Champion Award 2015, from all of the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough areas that have entered the Ulster in Bloom competition, as listed below: DETAIL Armagh, Banbridge, Lurgan, Portadown (Town) Richhill, Dromore, Bleary (Small ) Gilford, Rathfriland, Donacloney (Large Village) Loughbrickland, Laurencetown (Village) Loughgall, Scarva, Seapatrick, Tullylish, Charlestown Village (Small village) The nominees should be one of the following:- Someone in your local community who has really embraced Ulster in Bloom Someone whose longstanding Ulster in Bloom contribution has made a longstanding and positive difference to your local area A gardening enthusiast with a passion and dedication to create and maintain attractive plant and floral displays while supporting the local environment Someone who stands out and goes that extra mile to make your area blossom. The closing date for entries is Friday 21 st August 2015 and Members are asked to forward any nominations to the Democratic Services Manager by Friday 14 th August (Nominations require an explanation of up to 250 words and can be supported by up to 3 photographs.) DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any declarations of interest in relation to this matter.

24 6.5.4 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Council considers taking part in the Translink Ulster in Bloom competition by nominating individuals for the Community Champion Award CONSULTATION DOCUMENTS FROM EXTERNAL ORGANISATIONS Purpose Decision(s) Required: Members are asked to consider the content of the report and agree to: Make recommendations for processing consultation documents listed on the Consultation Schedule for July 2015 (Appendix 2) Note the Consultation Acknowledgements/Outcomes (Appendix 3) Link to Corporate Plan Lead Reporting Officer Corporate Priority under Position Directorate We will seek out opportunities to bring resources to the area, working in partnership with others. We will represent the views of local people and seek to increase our influence at the highest level. Eamonn Kelly, Change Management Officer BACKGROUND The Consultation Schedule (Appendix 2) provides a list of consultation documents as at July 2015, received from external organisations for consideration by Council. The Consultation Acknowledgements/Outcomes (Appendix 3) provides a list of responses received in respect of Council responses to consultations DETAIL The Consultation Schedule is published and presented to Committee for consideration on a monthly basis. The Consultation acknowledgements / Outcomes is published and presented to Committee for noting as and when responses are received DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any Declarations of Interest in relation to this matter RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Members: Decide on recommendations for processing consultation documents listed on the Consultation Schedule for July 2015 (Appendix 2). Note the Consultation Acknowledgements/Outcomes for July 2015 (Appendix 3.)

25 6.7 RESPONSE TO THE DRAFT FLUORINATED GREENHOUSE GASES REGULATIONS (NI) 2015 Purpose Decision(s) Required: Members are asked to consider the content of the report and agree to: Endorse the draft response to the consultation on the draft Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (NI) Link to Corporate Plan Lead Reporting Officer Corporate Priority under People Directorate Well Being- by supporting people to be safe, healthy and productive, as well as reducing health inequalities. Martina McNulty, Chief Environmental Health Officer BACKGROUND Fluorinated Gases (F-gases) are extremely powerful greenhouse gases and can cause man-made climate change. As a result the EU have required that in certain industries where their use remains common, operators are required to carry out leak checks and to ensure that persons repairing or maintaining such systems are suitably qualified and certified. Other legislative provisions restrict the manufacture and importation of F-gases. The draft Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (NI) 2015 (F-Gas Regulations) are the means by which the U.K. Government and the devolved administration seek to ensure compliance with the binding requirements laid down by the EU. The draft Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (NI) 2015 (F-Gas Regulations) update, extend and replace the existing NI 2009 Regulations. As these industries are spread throughout the U.K. (although primarily in GB) local Councils have been legislated by the Department to be the enforcing authority (with a few exceptions where the NIEA and the Department of the Environment retain responsibility). The Environmental Health service within the Council is responsible for enforcement of the 2009 Regulations The F-Gas Regulations (together with similar Ozone-Depleting Substances Regulations) are a direct means by which local Councils interact with local industries on behalf of central Government to deliver compliance with EU requirements and contribute to the protection of the global environment through the reduction of the emission of ozone-depleting substances and the strongest greenhouse gases DETAIL A public consultation document including draft Regulations has been issued by the Department of the Environment. The draft Regulations update and extend the existing provisions. The Council will retain enforcement responsibility which now includes the refrigerated transport sector brought into the 2015 Regulations. It is recommended that the Department of the Environment again follow a risk-based and proportionate approach to the enforcement responsibilities under the Regulations along similar lines to that employed during the introduction of the 2009 Regulations. Furthermore, it is recommended that the Department agrees the regulatory approach

26 with the Council before the Regulations come into operation. A detailed response to the consultation questions is provided as Appendix DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST None RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that members endorse the draft response to the consultation on the draft Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (NI) DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE CONSULTATION DRAFT NORTHERN IRELAND HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND EXPLOITATION STRATEGY 2015/16 Purpose Decision(s) Required: Members are asked to consider the content of the report and agree to: Endorse the draft response to the consultation on the Northern Ireland Human Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy 2015/16 Link to Corporate Plan Lead Reporting Officer Corporate Priority under People Directorate To support people to be safe, healthy and productive Alison Beattie, Policing and Community Safety Partnership Officer, Banbridge BACKGROUND Section 12 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 places a requirement on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to produce an annual strategy. The overarching strategic aim is to equip Northern Ireland to drive out human trafficking, slavery and forced labour. This aim is underpinned by four strategic priorities: Pursue (effective detection, disruption, investigation and prosecution of offenders) Protect and support (provision of effective protection and support and improved identification of victims) Prevent (prevent and reduce risk of human trafficking and exploitation in Northern Ireland) and Partnership (effective partnership response to human trafficking and exploitation) DETAIL The Consultation outlines the key aims and priorities identified in the Draft Northern Ireland Human Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy 2015/16. A full copy of this response is contained in Appendix 5.

27 In summary we suggest support for the overall principles contained within the strategy. Key suggestions within the response highlight the following themes: Building on a multi-agency approach in relation to information sharing, data protection and training in relation to human trafficking and child sexual exploitation. Developing support networks at community and agency levels to help identify risk factors. Work collaboratively on a global sale, to further reduce victimisation. Support strengthening the legislation and greater penalties for those involved in perpetrating trafficking DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any declaration of interest RECOMMENDATION Recommend that the draft response is approved for submission to the Department of Justice. 6.9 THE INSTITUTE OF REVENUES RATING and VALUATION (IRRV) NORTHERN IRELAND CONFERENCE Purpose Decision Required: Members are asked to consider the nomination of the Chair of the Governance, Policy and Resources Committee to attend the IRRV NI Conference Lead Officer Roger Wilson, Chief Executive DETAIL Correspondence has been received from the Institute Of Revenues Rating and Valuation (IRRV) Northern Ireland advising of their annual conference which will take place on Thursday 1 st October in Malone House, Belfast. A copy of the programme for the event is attached at Appendix 6 and the cost to attend is plus VAT RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council consider the nomination of the Chair of the Governance, Policy and Resources Committee to attend the IRRV NI Conference 2015.

28 6.10 PROPOSED TRAFFIC CALMING SCHEME AT CAMBRIA HEIGHTS, CAMBRIA PARK, OAKTREE MANOR, THE GRANERY AND THE CLOSE, WARINGSTOWN Purpose Decision Required: It is recommended that Members consider the proposals detailed below in order that the views of the Council can be submitted to Transport NI prior to the closing date of 3 August 2015 Link to Corporate Plan Corporate Priority under Position Directorate Leadership Champion key local issues Governance Provide public accountability and confidence Lead Officer Reporting Corporate Priority under People Directorate Well Being support people to be safe, healthy and productive Roger Wilson, Chief Executive BACKGROUND Correspondence has been received from Transport NI advising that they proposed to implement traffic calming measures at the following locations in Waringstown:- Cambria Heights Cambria Park Oaktree Manor The Granary The Close DETAIL Members will recall that the original closing date for receipt of comments was 5 July 2015 a request has been made for an extension to the consultation period and this has been agreed by Transport NI as 3rd August The scheme has been drawn up in response to requests from local representatives on behalf of residents for measures to reduce the speed of traffic and to improve road safety and will include 13 road humps. The scheme is scheduled to commence in 2016/17 though it may be brought forward should sufficient in-year funding become available in 2015/16. Following Members concerns in relation to local residents having an opportunity to provide comments on the proposed traffic calming measures, Transport NI have advised that a consultation is currently underway with local residents which will close on 31 st August Local residents have been notified of the details of this public consultation through advertisements in the local press, the Transport NI website and letters posted out to all households in these individual areas. Plans of the scheme will be available for viewing in the Mezzanine prior to the meeting.

29 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any Declarations of Interest in relation to this matter RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Members consider the proposals in order that the views of the Council can be submitted to Transport NI prior to the closing date of 3 August PROPOSED TRAFFIC CALMING SCHEME AT DRUMBREDA AVENUE AND DRUMBREDA CRESCENT, ARMAGH Purpose Decision Required: It is recommended that Members consider the proposals detailed below in order that the views of the Council can be submitted to Transport NI prior to the closing date of 21 st August Link to Corporate Plan Corporate Priority under Position Directorate Leadership Champion key local issues Governance Provide public accountability and confidence Corporate Priority under People Directorate Well Being support people to be safe, healthy and productive Lead Officer Roger Wilson, Chief Executive BACKGROUND Correspondence has been received from Transport NI to advise that they propose to implement traffic calming measures at Drumbreda Avenue and Drumbreda Crescent in Armagh DETAIL The scheme is scheduled to commence in 25015/16, providing sufficient funding is available. Members are advised that the closing date for the receipt of comments is 21 st August 2015 (this was originally 10 th July, but an extension to the deadline was granted by Transport NI.) Following Members concerns in relation to local residents having an opportunity to provide comments on the proposed traffic calming measures, Transport NI have advised that a consultation is currently underway with local residents which will close on 31 st August Local residents have been notified of the details of this public consultation through advertisements in the local press, the Transport NI website and letters posted out to the residents in these individual areas.

30 Plans of the scheme will be available for viewing in the Mezzanine prior to the meeting DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any declarations of interest in relation to this matter RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the Members consider the proposals in order that the views of the Council can be submitted to Transport NI prior to the closing date of 21 st August PROPOSED ABANDONMENT OF GILPINSTOWN ROAD, LURGAN Purpose Decision Required: It is recommended that Members consider the proposal detailed below in order that the views of the Council can be submitted to Transport NI prior to the closing date of 03 August Link to Corporate Plan Corporate Priority under Position Directorate Leadership Champion key local issues Governance Provide public accountability and confidence Lead Officer Roger Wilson, Chief Executive BACKGROUND Correspondence has been received from Transport NI to advise that they propose to abandon a portion of road adjacent to Gilpinstown Road, Lurgan DETAIL The abandonment is required to regularise an encroachment by the Developer of Carrigart Manor. On abandonment the ownership of the area reverts to the DRD and will be disposed of in accordance with the statutory guidelines for the sale of Government owned land. Please note that consultations were previously issued in relation to this abandonment in June An Ordnance Survey map of the land to be abandoned is attached at Appendix DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any declarations of interest in relation to this matter.

31 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Members consider the proposal from Transport NI to abandon a portion of road adjacent to Gilpinstown Road, Lurgan, in order that the views of the Council can be submitted to Transport NI prior to the closing date of 03 August ADVANCE NOTICE OF DELISTING OF 71, BALLYNAFOY ROAD, BALLYNASKEAGH, BANBRIDGE Purpose Decision Required: Members are asked for their views in relation to the DOE s consideration for the delisting of 71, Ballynafoy Road, Ballynaskeagh, Banbridge. Link to Corporate Plan Lead Reporting Officer Corporate Priority under Place Directorate Environment Promote and sensitively regenerate the architectural heritage. Roger Wilson, Chief Executive BACKGROUND Section 80(3) of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 requires the Department of the Environment (NI) to consult with the appropriate District Council before removing any building from the statutory list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest. Correspondence has been received from the Department to advise that they are currently considering the delisting of 71, Ballynafoy Road, Ballynaskeagh, Banbridge and that they would welcome the views of the Council on or before Friday 31 st July DETAIL The Department has stated that the building has been recommended for delisting because it does not meet the criteria to be a listed building. Attached at Appendix 8 is the Department s Second Survey Database District Council consultation report containing comprehensive building and historical information DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any declarations of interest in relation to this matter RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Members consider submitting their views in relation to the delisting of 71, Ballynafoy Road, Ballynaskeagh, Banbridge to the DOE s Historic Environment Division on or before 31 st July 2015.

32 ITEM FOR INFORMATION SWIM INITIATIVE AT BANBRIDGE LEISURE CENTRE Purpose Link to Corporate Plan Lead Reporting Officer For Noting. Corporate Priority Under People Directorate Improving everyone s quality of life, opportunity, safety and wellbeing. Stephen Fraser, Director of Leisure Services (Craigavon) BACKGROUND At the Council meeting on 22 June 2015 Members had noted that a 1 swim initiative had been launched over July at Banbridge Leisure Centre and had asked that Officers determine if this initiative is operationally practical to roll out across all facilities with a report brought back to Council DETAIL The summer period is a relatively quieter time for indoor leisure and therefore the centres often advertise activities that will encourage members of the public and in particular younger people. Banbridge Leisure Centre traditionally runs a swim for 1 initiative and this year the activity has been arranged for July. A number of summer initiatives had previously been promoted in Waves, CLC, the Orchard and Cascades including swimming for 1 over the years and management have refined the summer activity programme to maximise visitors over the summer. Cascades did run a swim for 1 in 2014 however the uptake of this scheme was poor and it was felt that it was not operationally effective to run the programme again this year. With this in mind Cascades and Waves have introduced a junior swim all summer for 25 initiative and this scheme has been widely advertised. This initiative allows under 16 s to avail of the pool all public swimming sessions and all pool inflatable sessions for a 25 charge in July and August. Craigavon Leisure Centre and the Orchard Leisure Centre are running summer schemes for children throughout the summer and it was felt that these initiatives were sufficient to attract junior users to those centres DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Officers are not aware of any declarations of interest in relation to this matter RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Members note the report.

33 APPENDIX 1 16 th June 2015 Mr Vincent McCann Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council The Palace Demesne Armagh BT60 4EL Dear Vincent Letter of offer of financial assistance under the Tourism Northern Ireland (trading as Northern Ireland Tourist Board) Tourism Event Funding Programme , and (Tourism NI Order 1992) 1 Confirmation Tourism Northern Ireland (Tourism NI) has agreed to award 3 years financial assistance of 293,446 to you Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council under the above Programme. The offer will help you to put Saint Patrick s International Festival (the event) into practice as detailed in the submitted application form submitted on 23 February Amount of grant This is a revenue grant and the breakdown of the grant offered over the 3 year period is shown in the table below. We have set out a detailed analysis of eligible spending in Annex B. The award is broken down as follows. Year Total Event Costs Tourism NI Grant Specifically Towards Eligible Costs 2015/16 296,291 79,120 Event and Marketing Costs 2016/17 409, TBC 5, /18 491,629 99,140 TBC This Letter of Offer for funding is on an annual basis and progressing to Year 2/3 will be subject to annual review, including achieving objectives and Key Performance Indicators as highlighted in Annex C. This funding is based around the key principle of showing tourism growth and sustainability over the 3 year period and Tourism NI will work in partnership with you to achieve this. Event organisers must be willing to work with Tourism NI and avail of all expertise and support from partners such as Invest NI, Arts Council NI and Tourism Ireland and work towards sustainability and tourism growth. 1

34 The award for 2015/16 is confirmed and will become payable on compliance with conditions attached and submitting Annex B - schedule of event costs, eligible costs and sources of finance Annex C - event objectives and key performance indicators and a detailed marketing and promotional plan for the event annually for the term of this Letter. Key Performance Indicators KPI 1 Event Development Group to be established between Tourism NI and Event Organiser and work in partnership with all members Development Group must ensure the Saint Patrick s Festival should take cognisance of the future direction of the wider Saint Patrick s experience that is currently under review by Tourism Northern Ireland in partnership with local Councils. KPI 2 KPI 3 Provide a detailed post event evaluation including breakdown by visitor, geographic area etc and media monitoring report. Increase out of state visitors by developing the event programme to reflect out of state focus and develop and implement all available marketing opportunities in ROI and GB markets and increasing PR profile You should use 2016/17 and 2017/18 as an indicative planning figure with the actual grant for the year being determined by the level of budget received by Tourism NI from Central Government and the successful completion of conditions laid out in this offer and Key Performance Indicators. The financial support is for this three year period only; there is no commitment to provide financial support beyond this period. Funding will be reviewed and agreed annually; if additional sponsorship/profit is received your grant may be reduced or withdrawn. We make payments to you using funding from Central Government. If Tourism NI do not receive adequate budget to cover the event grant schemes, we can suspend, end or reduce the amount we offer. We will not accept any legal responsibility for any loss caused by any delay in paying claims or for any suspension, reduction or cancellation of financial help by Central Government. 3 Eligibility period a The eligibility period for Year 1 of the event begins on 1 April The eligibility period for Year 2 will be determined upon submission of 2016/17 event budget and key performance indicators. The eligibility period for Year 3 will be determined upon submission of 2017/18 event budget and key performance indicators. 2

35 b The event must be carried out and completed to Tourism NI s satisfaction. All Event Conditions and information must be submitted to Tourism NI s Events Unit within 4 months of the completion date of the event (by 20 July 2016). c In return for the financial support, you must carry out the main activities as shown in the Application Form. You must also do so in line with the Event Objectives and Key Performance Indicators (Annex C) and keep strictly to the financial breakdowns and budgets in the schedule of event costs and eligible costs (Annex B), and any agreed changes to this. You should also keep to the standard conditions of grant (Annex A) and work with us where appropriate. Please make sure that you are aware of, and agree with, these activities before accepting this offer of financial support. 4 Grant contract Items a to g listed below form the letter of offer. If any are missing, please contact Tourism NI immediately. a. This letter of offer b. Bank details form c. Annex A standard conditions of grant d. Annex B schedule of event costs, eligible costs and sources of finance e. Annex C event objectives and key performance indicators f. Annex D examples of situations where you may be considered to be breaking your responsibilities under this offer g. Annex E examples of changes to the event which you need to give us notice and we need to give approval Accepting the letter of offer and standard conditions of grant By accepting this offer, you agree to meet and keep to all conditions of grant. Failure to do so may result in this offer being withdrawn. You must arrange a Letter of Offer meeting with the Tourism NI Events Unit to explain conditions within the offer and complete an acceptance form. This meeting must be arranged and completed 17 July If not, this offer will expire. You will need to provide us with proof of your VAT status. 5 Event Objectives and Key Performance Indicators You must use the grant in line with the Event Objectives and Key Performance Indicators, and the outcomes and outputs contained within them. If you make a change from the listed objectives, you must let us know. Please refer to Annex C. Please note: Achievement of Key Performance Indicators will affect proceeding to Year 2/3 of Financial Assistance. 3

36 6 Event spending This grant is allocated on a financial year basis. You must send details of any changes to the spending and income profiles for our approval. 7 Payments Before any grant can be released, the pre-payment conditions must be fully completed. These conditions can be found on page 5, paragraph 9a, under heading Pre-Payment Conditions. All spend and payments must be eligible as set out in the Guidelines for Applicants, Tourism Event Funding Programme 2015/16. 8 Financial controls You must make sure the necessary systems, procedures and controls are in place so that you have a clear audit trail. Either: a b A specific bank account to deposit the grant for the event (return the attached bank details form) from which you will make all spending for the event. If your organisation is not able to open a separate bank account, specifically for the event, you must agree with us a system of recording and accounting for the receipts and spending for the event that provides a clear audit trail (for example, a separate cost centre). 9 Claiming your grant Payments can be made in a maximum of two instalments. Where a need is identified, up to 50% may be drawn down in advance of the event on production of original invoices showing eligible costs incurred, as well as meeting all of the pre-payment conditions detailed on below. You may prefer to draw down your grant as one claim on completion of all requirements detailed in pre-event and post event conditions. a. Pre-Payment conditions We will not pay any grant until you have given us satisfactory evidence that you have met the following conditions before the event starts: i. Tender documentation Goods and services which will be paid for from our funding as shown in Annex A must be tendered for following procedures set up by Central Procurement Directorate s Services listed below. It is important that you provide us with justification in writing if you have not followed the below tendering procedures. In the event of this happening we will consider the situation on a case-by-case basis. 4

37 Value Up to 5,000 5,000-30,000 30,000 to EU Threshold [1] Above EU Thresholds 1[2] Procedure Obtain a minimum of 2 price checks. These can be obtained via internet/fax/ . Price checks should be documented and retained on file for audit purposes. A minimum of 2 tenders invited by the person authorised to procure for their organisation. Written evidence of invitation to tender to be retained on file for audit purposes. Publicly advertised tender (e.g. on esourcingni) EU Directives apply advertise in the Official Journal of European Union (OJEU) Please refer to page 18 for full Tendering Procedures. ii. Updated risk assessment document. iii. Sources of income: - Proof of confirmed sources of income, must contain amount e.g. Letters of Offer, contracts, sponsorship agreements - List of Unconfirmed sources of income - If your budget has changed you must forward a revised budget with your pre payment claim. (Proof of all sources of income will be requested at Post Event Stage) iv. Satisfactory approvals relevant to the event (this may include the following): - Venue Hire Agreement - Health & Safety documentation - Insurance cover for the event - Entertainment Licence/s v. A completed signed claim form (we will provide a template for this). vi Original invoices to support the claim. These do not have to be paid at this time. We do not accept pro-forma invoices. vii.we will require original bank statements within 30 days of you receiving the grant to show you have paid the invoices provided as part of the pre-event payment. b. Post Event Conditions [1] As at 1 st January 2014 the threshold is 172,514, ( 207,000) as per OEJU website. [2] As at 1 st January 2014 the threshold is 172,514, ( 207,000) as per OEJU website. 5

38 The remaining 50% of the grant will be withheld until the post event conditions are met. The following information is required to complete your event grant claim: i. A completed claim form (we will provide a template for this). ii. Original paid invoices. Please note: tendering documentation must be provided. See Page 18 for full details. We do not accept pro-forma invoices. iii. Original bank, credit-card or BACS statements to show payment of invoices. iv. An auditor s letter verifying that all spend is in line with conditions of grant and an examination of invoices, bank statements and claim form to verify expenditure claimed as per grant offered. For public sector, voluntary sector, charities and notfor-profit sector organisations who are the lead partner, this letter should come from your Finance Director. v. A comparison of actual against budgeted income and expenditure and a clear explanation of all differences vi. A copy of your full signed yearly financial statements you must confirm to us the date on which these will be available and send them on to us at this time. vii. A post-event report to include the following information: - the success of the event including achievement of Key Performance Indicators and any areas that could be improved for future events, based on the information provided in the Application Form - an analysis of the marketing plan you provided with your Application Form which evaluates the effectiveness of the marketing activities undertaken and provides an explanation for marketing activities which were changed from the original plan - completed post event economic calculator (we will provide a template for this) - a summary document providing details of all press coverage, including geographical coverage or a breakdown of it, and associated advertising value equivalent (AVE) or an equivalent financial measure showing the amount of coverage received - samples of press releases issued about the event which must acknowledge Tourism NI as a part-funder - a selection of copies of press / media clippings - A copy of results from audience surveys (we will provide a template for the audience survey) - Outline and proof of achieving KPI s (if applicable) 10 General conditions a b You should send your completed claim information to: Events Unit Tourism Northern Ireland St Anne s Court 59 North Street Belfast BT1 1NB We can keep any percentage of any grant payment we feel necessary. 6

39 c d e f g h i j k l m You must send final claims and all associated supporting documentation to us before 20 July We can ask you to provide further supporting documentation before making the final payment. Tourism NI, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI), the Managing Authority, the Paying Authority, the Northern Ireland Audit Office and the European Court of Auditors, and their agents are entitled to audit your claim. We will give you the grant only for the costs of carrying out the event. We can withdraw or reduce the offer and be under no responsibility to pay any part of it if, without our written permission beforehand, you have changed the general plans and proposals you submitted to us for the event. We do not consider VAT which can be recovered as eligible spending. If you cannot reclaim the VAT, we can consider this when providing the grant only when you formally send us a declaration from the HMRC or by providing your VAT registration number. We can reclaim any money which we believe you have spent which is not eligible. We will tell you what action we want you to take. We will exclude any spending in a claim that we feel is not eligible when we finalise the grant payment. We will also record and report on this as an irregularity if necessary. We can review all claims and payments at any time and, if we identify any ineligible spending, we can recover the associated grant payment on any part of the associated grant payment. If an event s actual project costs fall below the 50,000 minimum threshold, we will reduce the amount of grant funding offered in this letter of offer by the same percentage as the actual project costs fall short of 50,000 on a case by case basis. For example, if your actual total project costs are 40,000 ( 10,000 below the 50,000 threshold) we will reduce the grant awarded by 20% (see Annex D). If an event s actual project costs fall significantly below those projected in the application form which we made our grant decision on, we may reduce the amount of grant funding awarded. We will consider this situation on a case-by-case basis (see Annex D) and we reserve the right to decide what is deemed to be significant. If the event produces a profit or additional sponsor received we will consider this situation on a case-by-case basis and may reduce the amount of grant awarded or reclaim funding already paid. Tourism NI may require access to complete research of the event, you must give permission for this to be carried out (see Annex A, Point 17). You must read and understand the requirements detailed throughout this letter of offer including the information in Annex A E. 11 Holding period All terms and conditions that apply to this grant and contained in this offer will apply where appropriate for the period beginning on 1 April 2015 and ending 31 March This 7

40 means you are required to retain all documentation relating to the event and the payment of our grant during this time period. If you want to accept this letter of offer, a meeting must be arranged with Events Unit at Tourism NI to explain the conditions within the offer and complete an acceptance form accompanied by: budget confirmation, detailed marketing and promotional plan, risk assessment proof of VAT status To arrange this meeting please contact your Case Officer Michelle Jameson on or at m.jameson@tourismni.com Yours sincerely Eddie Rowan Events Manager 8

41 Bank account details Event name: Event promoter (Applicant): Saint Patrick s International Festival Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Please complete this form and return at the Letter of Offer Meeting. I confirm: that we have opened a separate bank account or set up a separate cost centre for this event The details of the account into which any grant payments should be made are as follows. Name of bank: Address: Postcode: Account name: Account number: Sort code: Type of account: Cost centre: Date opened: Signed: Date: Name (CAPITALS please): Position in organisation: 9

42 Annex A Letter of offer Standard conditions of grant 1. Definitions ITEF: refers to the International Tourism Events Fund We, us: refers to the Tourism Northern Ireland You, your: refers to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Event: refers to the Saint Patrick s International Festival Offer: refers to the Letter of Offer 2. Rules on who is eligible a b In carrying out your duties during this offer, you must keep to and put into practice the conditions of all enactments, regulations, legal conditions and working rules related to legislation as they apply in Northern Ireland. This includes those relating to antidiscrimination, equal opportunities, health and safety, child protection, freedom of information, disability access, data protection and, competition law and European Union legislation. In doing all things necessary to organise and manage the event in line with the terms of this offer, you must get all the licences, approvals and permission you need from all relevant government departments, local authorities, insurers and other people interested in the event. You must give these to us if we ask, and must agree to protect us against any loss we might suffer as a result of your failure to get these licences, approvals, permissions etc. 3. Putting the event into practice and spending a b c We pay the grant on a financial year basis (April to March). If you do not keep to the agreed financial year spending profile, we may reduce the amount of the grant that we can pay to the event. We will carry over any money we have set aside for spending in any one year, but not spent in that year, to the following year. You must give us updates in writing on any changes to the spending profile. The offer of financial help will be up to the amount shown on page 1 of the Letter of Offer. If all the money is not spent on agreed eligible costs and activities, the amount which has not been spent will not be available for the event. d By signing this Letter of Offer you have entered into a satisfactory agreement to pay for any cost overruns which may arise in relation to the event and to meet any possible shortfall that your expected revenue does not cover. 10

43 e Limits on state aid Ignoring any other condition of this offer, if the European Commission decides or we have a responsibility under European Community law, we may withhold payment or tell you to repay any or all of the financial help together with interest from the date on which we paid you the grant. 4. Accepting financial help a b This offer of financial help is valid until 17 July You must arrange a meeting with your Case Officer and sign the acceptance in their presence. By doing so you are creating a binding contract and we will then assume you are going ahead with the event on the assumption that the financial help will be available in line with the terms of this offer. Any work carried out will be at your own risk and Tourism NI will not be responsible for any losses or expenditure to date. If you do not meet all relevant event specific and standard conditions, we will not provide the financial help. 5. Changes to the event a b c If you want to change the event, you must send us written notice. Any changes should not significantly change the main objectives of the event as described in the Application Form. The notice should also include clear details of the reasons for any changes. Annex E gives examples of changes to the event that would need notice and our approval. We can only accept changes to the event spending in exceptional circumstances and we do not have to approve your request. If you do not give us the notice we ask for about proposed changes or for any other reason, we can withhold approval for any changes. We can also tell you to stop carrying out any activity related to the event until we have carried out an investigation. If, for any reason, the event cannot be put into practice as outlined in the schedule of eligible activity, and as described in the Application Form you must tell us immediately. 6. If you fail to make payments and repaying the grant a. We will consider that you have broken your responsibilities under this offer if you fail to fully keep to all terms and conditions of the offer. If any of the circumstances and events shown in Annex D happens, you will have to repay all or part of the grant received under this offer, in line with paragraph 6b. b If you become legally responsible for repaying all or any part of the grant, we will serve a written demand on you to repay the grant. If we do not receive the payment within 30 days of sending our demand, you will have to pay interest on the amount you owe, from the date we serve the demand to the date you make the payment. This will be at a rate of 3% a year above the base lending rate of our current bankers. Continued failure to repay the grant will result in legal action being taken against you to reclaim any amount owed. 11

44 c d e f g h i j k If we fail to or delay in demanding the payment, it does not mean we cannot do so in the future. We may withhold the grant or reclaim any of it we may have paid if we need to make sure any financial help under this offer either separately or taken together with any other help which, in our opinion, has been or is likely to be received towards the event is not within the aid limits laid down by the European Union. We can withdraw this offer if you break any of the terms and conditions contained here, including the yearly profile of spending. If this happens, we may either renegotiate the contract and re-issue a Letter of Offer, or end the contract and take the action outlined in 6b. You must tell us immediately about any circumstance that has caused or is likely to cause a loss or misuse of our funding. Any loss or misuse may result in us withdrawing financial support and demanding refunds of money you may have already spent. (This will include interest at 3% a year above the base lending rate of our current bankers.) Continued failure to pay any demand for refund will result in legal action being taken against you to reclaim any amount owed. You must tell us immediately in writing if any of the circumstances described applies to the event. If we overpay the grant, you must repay us immediately when we first demand or if you become aware that we have overpaid the grant, whichever happens first. The principle of additionality is a central principle of our funding. You will receive only the minimum amount of financial help you need for you to carry out the event. The funding should allow an event, or parts of an event to take place which would otherwise be unlikely to happen or would only happen on a reduced scale or quality. We will review any profit you make on the event on a case-by-case basis. If we ask, you must explain any part of your budget. We can review your financial statements and if we request you must give us a full year s bank statements relating to the event. We can recall part or all of the grant payment if, without getting our written permission beforehand, you have changed the proposal or estimations you have given to us about the project. An annual review of income and expenditure will be completed by Tourism NI after your event. Should additional sources of income be secured e.g. sponsorship Tourism NI reserve the right to review and remove the financial assistance to the event. 7. Publicity, branding and promotion General a We will publish details of this grant at such times and ways we decide. You may have to give us more information about the event and allow us to publish this. 12

45 b c You should, where appropriate and with us, use images of Northern Ireland in any visual marketing campaign, particularly television coverage, to promote Northern Ireland as a tourist destination. You can ask us for guidance, images and footage. We may reduce your grant if you do not make a significant effort to keep to any of the branding publicity and promotion conditions shown in this letter of offer. Public relations and press releases d e f You should work with us in preparing all plans for the public or private launch of the event and all plans for communications, marketing and advertising. All these plans, using our logos, need our approval and should be passed to us at least two weeks before any relevant deadlines. You must give us the opportunity to go to or speak at press launches for your event. We will provide staff to do this if they are available and depending on the level of funding events have received and the level of media interest an event is likely to generate. You must also give us copies of PR coverage (see post-event evaluation requirements within the letter of offer, page 5). If the DETI Minister is asked to speak at an event, you must liaise with us during the planning of this as Tourism NI needs to prepare ministerial briefing papers, including speech notes. We will require your input to these, and you must give us at least three weeks notice. Using logos g h i You must acknowledge our financial support by including our corporate logo on all material where you acknowledge funders and sponsors. If you are targeting a consumer audience, you should use our new consumer leisure logo. This applies to any brochures, leaflets, job advertisements, tickets, online magazines, billboards, VIP invitations, press material, television advertisements or any other publicity material you produce in connection with the event. You must pass all artwork or moving-image material using any of our logos and strap lines to us for approval at least two weeks before any relevant deadline. You must make sure that you mention the grant on all materials produced and distributed relating to the event. You must use the following logos as described on publicity material: The Tourism Northern Ireland corporate logo 13

46 You must use this logo to acknowledge that we are a part-funder of an event and this must be included on all materials where funders and sponsors are acknowledged, for example on the funders and sponsors page of an event s programme. The Northern Ireland consumer leisure logo You must use the consumer leisure logo if you are targeting a consumer audience or within the context of an advertisement if you are using a significant image of Northern Ireland. And, you should not use it in place of the corporate logo to acknowledge our funding. We will work with you to achieve a suitable positioning for the consumer leisure message within an event s publicity. This may be achieved by using consumerfacing advertising through events (see paragraph m below). j k If you are not sure about using any of our logos you must contact us to discuss this. Please give appropriate notice of print deadlines, launch dates and so on. The above logos are available from us in EPS format and in several colours. We will only process grant claims once you have given us appropriate evidence that you have given us suitable acknowledgement that we have partly funded the event. Please see paragraph c above where we can reduce the grant. Branding at events l m You must allow our staff, or staff working on our behalf, access to the event venue or outdoor site before the event so we can position agreed branding materials. A process is in place for branding events funded by Tourism NI which you must adhere to. You must display our banners or other branding materials at the event. We, or the staff working on our behalf will agree the number, type and positioning with you and erect the collateral on our behalf. You are responsible for the safety of these materials while they are at your event. Failure to do so will result in the production costs of the items being deducted from your grant. Advertising at events n o Events should offer us free advertising within their printed marketing material (programmes etc.), event web, audio-visual and any other methods which may be used during the course of the event. In printed material which is A4 or larger you should offer us at least a half-page advertisement. For items smaller than A4, you should discuss the advertising opportunities with us. We will discuss advertising opportunities with you and agree the level beforehand. At least two weeks notice prior to deadline must be given for all advertising. 14

47 Audio visual p We can supply material similar to that of the latest TV advertisement for use on big screens and other platforms at events. You should send us your technical specifications two weeks before the event to allow us to tailor material to your expected audience. Radio r When recognising sponsors and funders in audio material including radio, online or television advertising, you must pass us audio material using our strap lines for approval at least one week beforehand. Web s t You must make sure you display prominently our logo on the event website (please see Using Logos section above). The logos must also be set as live links through to the homepage of If you are using banner advertisements on event websites, you should offer us this option to avail of free of charge. We aim to list all funded events on our consumer website and to make sure this information is subsequently fed through to Tourism Ireland s consumer website You must give us at least 150 words describing your event including information such as dates, times, admission prices, contact details and images which will assist to sell the event to visitors. You can supply up to eight good quality images (landscape orientation). By supplying images you are confirming you are the image owner and use will not infringe any third parties. You are also providing Tourism NI and related tourism partners with access and permission to use these and distribute these images in any future free promotional exercises they may run. Please send this information to us as soon as you can before the date of your event. If information changes please make us aware so we can update the entry. Please send this information to: events@tourismni.com Social Media u Events which are part funded/sponsored by Tourism NI may receive coverage on our corporate and consumer-facing social media channels. We manage these channels in accordance with set processes and coverage will be dependent on the social media schedule at any given time. We retain editorial control at all times. Please send event information for inclusion on social media channels to digital@tourismni.com. Tourism NI s Social and Digital team may require access to your event to live tweet/blog or to produce exclusive photography/video content. If such access is required, the Social and Digital Unit will contact you directly. Where events are ticketed, at least one pair of complementary tickets should be made available to us as competition prizes. The decision to run a social media 15

48 competition remains with us and will be dependent on the competition schedule at any given time. Contact details of competition entrants will be retained by us for use in future marketing campaigns where appropriate permissions have been sought and given. Photography/film v You may be required to make access available to us to conduct photographic shoots or film, and to supply your photography/film to us for pre/post event promotion. Use of Your Images by Tourism NI and Third Party Use We are keen to use images of your event to maximise the promotion of Northern Ireland. Having broad permissions to use images/film and to display on our photographic media library helps us and our partner organisations to do this. By supplying images you are confirming you are the image owner and use will not infringe any third parties. In the event that the use of such images does lead to any legal proceedings against Tourism NI, Tourism NI will not be held liable. You are also providing us and related tourism partners with access and permission to use these and distribute these images in any future free promotional exercises they may run. In particular please confirm that Tourism NI has permission to: Transmit, broadcast and publish any of the selected images/film in any tourism marketing activities (including but not limited to: advertising campaigns, social media, print/brochure editorials, TV, websites and other forms of digital media). Make these images available on their media library for onwards distribution to any authorised third party, print or broadcast media, tourism partner or agency, statutory department or member of the trade for use in any way connected to the promotion of Northern Ireland and its tourism product. (These partners include, but are not limited to: Visit Belfast, Visit Britain, Tourism Ireland, Northern Ireland Councils and other members of Trade). Make these images available to partner organisations, such as tourism partners including Tourism Ireland and Visit Britain, for publication on their own image libraries under their specific conditions of use. Please confirm that there is no specified end date to this contract and Tourism NI can use the images indefinitely across NI, ROI, UK, Europe and the Rest of the World. If applicable, please also confirm that all appropriate model releases are in place therefore indemnifying Tourism NI against any subsequent claims. You should make sure that spectators and audiences at your events are also aware of this. Credits Please advise what, if any, credit is required when using images/film. Note that while we encourage media to whom we may supply images to credit their sources, we are not able to check or follow up on this. Note also that some forms of media usage do not lend themselves to crediting e.g. broadcast. 16

49 Inviting us to events w If appropriate for the nature of the event, you should discuss with us, as early as possible, the opportunity to use a trade stand or other device from which we can distribute tourist information and marketing material for Northern Ireland. Tickets x We will require admission to your event and you must provide us with a number of tickets and VIP or corporate hospitality tickets for us to use. We will agree the number of tickets with you beforehand. We will come to the event to evaluate it or to give journalists or tour operators familiarisation trips we have co-ordinated. We will only give complimentary tickets to journalists who we believe are likely to produce positive media coverage of the event itself or Northern Ireland as a whole. We will only give complimentary tickets to tour operators who can bring groups from outside Northern Ireland to similar events or Northern Ireland as a whole. 8 Financial controls and audit responsibilities a b c You must give us satisfactory evidence that you have adequate financial procedures, systems and controls in place which will provide a clear audit trail. This offer will depend on you producing any accounting or other financial information we need. This includes, but is not limited to an auditor s letter. We (the Managing Authority), DETI (the Paying Authority) and their agents and the Northern Ireland Audit Office are entitled, at any time, to gain access to your premises, to any premises being used to deliver the event and to inspect the event and all documents relating to it. The aim is to check that the event: is in line with the description made in the Application Form; receives a grant in line with documented eligible spending; is put into practice with appropriate financial controls; and is in line with all terms and conditions contained in this offer. d e You must tell us about any irregularities, fraud and theft or any circumstance which has caused or is likely to cause a loss or misuse of the grant provided under this offer. You will need to give us a full and detailed report in writing. You must give us any other relevant financial information relating to the event if requested. 9 Tendering procedures a b As part of your financial procedures, systems and controls, you will need to have an appropriate tendering and procurement policy in place. When you buy any goods or services, at all times, you should consider providing best value for money and open, fair and transparent competition. 17

50 c You must buy goods and services using our grant by following the procedures set out in the table below. Value Up to 5,000 5,000-30,000 30,000 to EU Threshold [1] Above EU Thresholds 2[2] Procedure Obtain a minimum of 2 price checks. These can be obtained via internet/fax/ . Price checks should be documented and retained on file for audit purposes. A minimum of 2 tenders invited by the person authorised to procure for their organisation. Written evidence of invitation to tender to be retained on file for audit purposes. Publicly advertised tender (e.g. on esourcingni) EU Directives apply advertise in the Official Journal of European Union (OJEU) d e f g If you are getting goods and services from a project promoter and paying over 30,000, you should do so using a formal contract. You must not split up contracts for similar goods or services just so you avoid the thresholds set out above. We will not be legally responsible for any contracts between you and another person or organisation. If you need artistic or technical specialist skills or materials from a specific organisation or individual (in other words a particular music artist, performer etc.) you must give us justification for not using the usual tendering process as outlined in 9c above. 10 Bank account You must make sure the necessary systems, procedures and controls are in place so that you have a clear audit trail. Either: a. A specific bank account to deposit the grant for the event (return the attached bank details form) from which you will make all spending for the event. b. If your organisation is not able to open a bank account specifically for the event, you must agree with us a system of recording and accounting for the receipts and spending for the event that provides a clear audit trail (for example, a separate cost centre). [1] As at 1 st January 2014 the threshold is 172,514, ( 207,000) as per OEJU website. [2] As at 1 st January 2014 the threshold is 172,514, ( 207,000) as per OEJU website. 18

51 16 Keeping documents a. You must keep all original supporting documents and records regarding the event and make them available for inspection until the end of the holding period (31 March 2024). We cannot accept photocopies or reproductions of any of the above mentioned documents. b. If you go into liquidation, merge with another organisation, end this contract or decide for any other reason not to continue with the event, you must give us back all documents relating to the event. Never destroy any documents or otherwise get rid of them without our written permission. 12 Assets Buying assets is not an eligible cost under the International Tourism Events Fund. You must keep in good condition, all property, equipment, machinery, furniture, fixtures and fittings and assets of every kind you have owned or used in connection with the event. 13 Protecting the environment In accepting this offer, you must agree to deal with all aspects of the event which have an effect on the environment. You must do your best to adopt and put into practice an appropriate green environmental policy. 14 Member states laws and employment procedures a. You must keep to the conditions of all enactments, regulations, legal conditions and working rules related to law as it relates in Northern Ireland. This includes, but not just, those which relate to anti-discrimination and health and safety law. In particular you must also keep to the requirements of Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998, Sex Discrimination (NI) Orders 1976 and 1988, the Fair Employment (NI) Acts 1976 and 1989, the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (as modified by schedule 8 in Northern Ireland), the Race Relations (NI) Order 1997, and any enactment which amends, extends or replaces these. b. If our grant allows you to create new jobs, either full or part time, you must advertise all these posts publicly. You must also say where the finance for them came from, and recruitment procedures must be carried out in line with Equality Commission Guidelines and with the laws quoted above. c. You must send to us for approval, drafts of all advertisements relating to the assisted activity, including staff recruitment and, where it applies, advertising for trainees, if it has been agreed that staff costs should be covered by our funding. We also have a right to have a representative on short listing and interview panels. d. You are responsible for the legal implications of employing staff on full-time, shortterm or fixed-term contracts. If your event ends early, for whatever reason, you will be solely responsible for any redundancy or contractual obligations. 19

52 e. Your board members or trustees who want to apply for paid posts relating to the event must first resign from the board of directors or trustees. Existing employees whose salaries are being supported under this offer may not hold board member or trustee posts. 15 Political activities You must not use any of the grant for any purposes which are party political in nature. 16 Insurance You must satisfy us that the event and any associated assets have the relevant insurance in place which is needed to cover all liabilities to us arising under these terms and conditions. This applies as long as the insurance is reasonably available on the insurance market. This includes employers liability insurance, professional indemnity and directors and officers or fidelity insurance, buildings and property contents insurance (to include IT equipment) and public liability. We may refer the completed schedule of eligible activity to independent brokers for them to check that the cover is adequate. Failure to obtain satisfactory insurance cover will result in the withdrawal of any finding. 17 Monitoring and evaluation We may complete an independent evaluation of the event and you must give us access for this to be carried out by an organisation we have chosen. You should work with this other organisation so they can carry out the evaluation. You will not have to pay anything for this work, if we have chosen your event. You must still carry out your post event requirements as per the letter of offer. If you do not provide the documents we need within the given deadlines, we may withdraw this offer. 18 Limits If we give you a grant under this offer, it does not mean we have any further commitment to the event when the terms of this letter are completed. 19 Transferring any rights Unless you get our written permission beforehand, you cannot legally transfer any rights to receive financial help or other benefit or entitlement under this offer. Other a. Without affecting anything above, if we fail to or delay in enforcing any of our rights under this offer, it does not mean we cannot enforce them in the future. The rights we have under this offer apply as well as any rights we have by law. b. Each of the conditions in this offer is separate. This means if we cannot enforce any right or it is no longer valid, it will not affect the enforceability or validity of the others. 20

53 c. You agree to protect us against all action, proceedings, costs, claims, demands and legal responsibility in connection with the event. You must agree that our only role is as a funder. This means we do not have a contractual relationship with any employee, supplier, customer or other person connected to the event. d. Law and court action - This offer is governed by Northern Irish law. Any dispute will be dealt with by the courts of Northern Ireland. 21

54 Annex B: Year 1 Letter of offer of financial assistance under the Tourism Northern Ireland (trading as Northern Ireland Tourist Board) Tourism Event Funding Programme , and (Tourism NI Order 1992) Schedule of event income, spending and sources of finance Event name: Saint Patrick s International Festival Event promoter (Applicant): Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Date of event: March 2016 Event Expenditure Event Costs Grant Event Costs (including participant costs, production & venue costs, health & safety, licensing and insurance Costs) 259,682 64,120 Marketing & Promotion Costs 33,264 15,000 Professional and Evaluation Costs 3,345 nil Totals 296,291 79,120 Sources of Income Amount Earned Income 15,654 Local Authority 201,518 Tourism NI 79,120 Totals 217,172 22

55 Annex C: Year 1 Letter of offer of financial assistance under the Tourism Northern Ireland (trading as Northern Ireland Tourist Board) Tourism Event Funding Programme , and (Tourism NI Order 1992) Event Objectives and Key Performance Indicators Event name: Saint Patrick s International Festival Event promoter (Applicant): Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Date of event: March 2016 Event Objectives 2015/16 Objective 1 Objective 2 Objective 3 Offer an authentic range of cultural and artistic events within a programme that will attract local and out of state visitors Develop a bold and compelling brand that articulates the values and appeal of the festival Develop relationships and practical actions to help the festival gain traction in off-island tourism markets Key Performance Indicators 2015/16 KPI 1 Event Development Group to be established between Tourism NI and Event Organiser and work in partnership with all members. Development Group must ensure the Saint Patrick s Festival should take cognisance of the future direction of the wider Saint Patrick s experience that is currently under review by Tourism Northern Ireland in partnership with local Councils. KPI 2 Provide a detailed post event evaluation including breakdown by visitor, geographic area etc and media monitoring report. KPI 3 Increase out of state visitors by developing the event programme to reflect out of state focus and develop and implement all available marketing opportunities in ROI and GB markets and increasing PR profile Please note: Achievement of Key Performance Indicators will affect proceeding to Year 2 of Financial Assistance. Event Objectives and KPI s will be reviewed and agreed annually. Event organisers must be willing to working with Tourism NI and avail of all expertise and support from partners working towards sustainability and tourism growth. 23

56 Annex D Letter of offer of financial assistance under the Tourism Northern Ireland (trading as Northern Ireland Tourist Board) Tourism Event Funding Programme , and (Tourism NI Order 1992) Circumstances where you may have to repay all or part of the grant Event name: Saint Patrick s International Festival Event promoter (Applicant): Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Date of event: March 2016 We will consider that you have broken your responsibilities under this offer if you fail to keep to our terms and conditions. Below are some examples. This is not an exhaustive list and may be added to at our discretion. a b c d e f g h If we believe that any information about the event which has been given to us is false or misleading or you have failed to reveal any significant fact which might have affected our decision to provide this offer. Any significant change is made to the design or specification of the project without our permission. You make any other changes, without our written permission, to the event including those relating to the financial structure of the event. The balance of finance (other than the grant) needed to complete the work for the event is no longer available to you. You fail to keep to any of the terms and conditions of this offer and (if it can be resolved), you do not resolve the problem to our satisfaction within 28 days of us asking you in writing. You cannot pay your debts within the meaning of Article 103 of the Insolvency (NI) Order 1989 and the Protection of Employees (Employers Insolvency) Action Ireland. If you are an individual, you are declared bankrupt or make a proposal to your creditors for an arrangement to pay off your debts or you apply to the court for an interim order. If the event produces a profit we will consider this situation on a case-by-case basis and may reduce the amount of grant awarded or reclaim funding already paid. 24

57 i j k l m n o p q r s t An event s actual project costs fall significantly below those you estimated in the application form we used to decide on the amount of grant funding. We will consider each case and may reduce the amount of grant funding awarded to the event. An event s actual project costs fall below the 50,000 minimum threshold. If this happens, we will reduce the amount of grant funding in this letter of offer by the same percentage which the actual project costs fall short of 50,000. If you are a corporation and you enter into liquidation whether voluntary or compulsory (other than a liquidation to amalgamate or reconstruct the business made with our written permission), an administration order is made over your business, an administrative receiver is appointed over your assets, a substantial part of your assets are taken or there are a substantial number of people holding any debentures secured by a floating charge. For any reason, you can no longer hold the event or you stop, whether voluntarily or otherwise, to carry on with the event. Cancellation due to weather conditions is treated on a case by case basis. You fail to pay or repay us any amount due whether under these terms and conditions or otherwise. The main purpose of the event is no longer, in our opinion, tourism based. You will have to repay all or part of the grant if you sell or transfer the event during the holding period. We discover fraudulent or irregular claims during or after we have paid the grant or during any audit visits. You do not keep to the conditions during the holding period. You do not return to us or a nominated agent any branding materials we have provided you for use at the event. You cannot show, if requested, 100% of eligible costs for the event. In any of these circumstances, we may suspend or end the agreement with you. We will then ask you to repay us an amount we decide. The above are examples. You should contact us if you are not sure about your responsibilities under this offer. 25

58 Annex E Letter of offer of financial assistance under the Tourism Northern Ireland (trading as Northern Ireland Tourist Board) Tourism Event Funding Programme , and (Tourism NI Order 1992) Examples of changes to the event which would need our approval Event name: Saint Patrick s International Festival Event promoter (Applicant): Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Date of event: March 2016 Examples of situations that would need you to give us notice for approval are: a b c d e f g h i changing the start or end date of the event; changing the content of the event from that set out in the original approved Application Form, for example, changing the scope, delivery or aims; changing the sources of or the amounts of financial support; changes in financial support, including who is providing it; changing the estimated spending or revenue whether this is higher or lower than expected; claims for items of spending not agreed in the schedule of eligible activity; changing levels of spending on different areas in the schedule of eligible activity; changing the event name or your name; and changing key members of staff. The above is not a full list and may be added to at our discretion. You should contact us if you are in any doubt about the need to report proposed changes. 26

59 To be signed in the presence of Tourism NI Events Unit at Letter of Offer Meeting Event name: Saint Patrick s International Festival Event promoter (Applicant): Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Date of event: March 2016 Letter of offer of financial assistance under the Tourism Northern Ireland (trading as Northern Ireland Tourist Board) Tourism Event Funding Programme , and (Tourism NI Order 1992) Accepting the letter of offer I have read and considered the grant offer, including the terms and conditions that apply to this grant. I am pleased to accept the grant contract as shown in this letter and set out specifically in paragraph 3. I confirm that I am authorised to sign this acceptance. Name: Authority Signature Date: Name: Authority Signature Date: Tourism NI Events Unit: Signature Date: 27

60 APPENDIX 2 CONSULTATION SCHEDULE JULY 2015 It is important to ensure that the following prioritisation matrix is rigorously applied to ensure the efficient use of officers and members time: Public Interest Impact on Council Services Ability to influence change Keep in context PRIORITISATION MATRIX Concerns of local people should influence the issues chosen Degree to which the content of the consultation documents impacts on service delivered directly by Council Degree to which a Council response could influence change Council work programmes must take account of what else is happening to avoid duplication or wasted effort Issuing Body (include Website address) Consultation Document Consultation Deadline Recommendation 1 - noting 2 officer(s) response, identify department 3 political parties 1 NI Assembly Mental Capacity Bill 7 July noting The Mental Capacity Bill was introduced into the Assembly on 8 June 2015 with the Committee Stage to commence mid-june Views/comments are sought on the contents of the Bill. 2 DETI The Review of Tourism 24 July officer response Accommodation Policy (Completed) No further action The consultation sets out the proposed core principles of tourism accommodation policy for It seeks to consider existing accommodation provision and future accommodation needs as tourism continues to grow in line with targets and to ensure that the right accommodation is in place and of the right quality to meet the needs of visitors from key markets. 3 NIFRS Draft EQIA on Revised noting Emergency Response Standards for NI The 2006 Emergency Response Standards require updating in the context of up to date data and also under the on-going need to focus on more efficient service delivery. It is proposed to introduce a suite of Emergency Response Standards which will provide a more meaningful representation of how the NIFRS performs and where improvements can be made. 4 DHSSPS Review of HSC Commissioning Arrangements noting A review of the Commissioning arrangements is under way with a report to be published by August The Department is keen to hear Council views on the extent to which it feels they have an opportunity to contribute to the current arrangements and how the present system might be improved. 5 DoE Draft Local Government noting Reorganisation (Compensation for Diminution of Emoluments) Regulations (NI) The Local Government Act (NI) 2014 makes provision for payment of compensation diminution of emoluments which is attributable to any provision made as a result of the reform of local government. The proposed Regulations provide the manner in which and to whom compensation is to be made.

61 Issuing Body (include Website address) 6 Department of Justice Consultation Document Access and Use of DNA/Fingerprints DATA by the Historical Investigations Unit (HIU) Consultation Deadline noting Recommendation 1 - noting 2 officer(s) response, identify department 3 political parties Schedule 2 of the Criminal Justice Act (NI) 2013 sets out new arrangements for the retention and destruction of DNA and fingerprints taken from persons in connection with the investigation of an offence under the Police and Criminal Evidence (NI) Order 1989 (PACE). 7 DoE Consultation on noting Proposed Consolidated Water Framework Directive Priority Substances and Classification Regulations The primary purpose of and driver behind the Regulations is to transpose Directive 2013/39/EU on priority substances in the field of water policy. 8 Department of Justice NI Human Trafficking and officer response Exploitation Strategy 2015/16 The legislation places a duty on the DOJ to produce an annual strategy on offences under section 1 and 2 of the Act. The draft strategy has been developed following extensive engagement with both civil society partners on the DOJ s Human Trafficking Engagement Group and statutory partners on the Organised Crime Task Force s Immigration and Human Trafficking Subgroup. It builds on previous work progressed in 2013/14 and 2014/15. The strategy outlines four strategic priorities: Pursue, Protect and Support, Prevent and Partnership. Specific reference is made to DOJ training to PCSPs (Autumn 2015). 9 DARD Consolidation of the noting Animals and Animal DHSSPS Products (Examination for Residues and Maximum Residue Limits) Regulations (NI) 1998 (As Amended) In order to protect the health of consumers and to ensure that food derived from animals is safe and fit for national and international trade, European Legislation requires all Member States to implement control programmes to monitor residues of veterinary medicinal products and prohibited drugs in foods of animal origin. It is proposed to combine a number of amendments to these Regulations into one piece of legislation, creating a more accessible, transparent and user-friendly version of the Regulations. 10 EIRGRID North-South 400lV Interconnection Development noting An application for planning approval including an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS), to An Bord Pleanála for the North-South 400 kv Interconnection Development. Submissions or observations in respect of the application for planning approval may only be made to An Bord Pleanála from to

62 Issuing Body (include Website address) Consultation Document Consultation Deadline Recommendation 1 - noting 2 officer(s) response, identify department 3 political parties 11 Jim Allister, MLA Proposal for a Special noting Advisers Amendment Bill Controversy regarding the number, expense and accountability of ministerial Special Advisers has led to the examination and adequacy of the law relating to such Civil Servants. It is proposed that a Bill be introduced in the Assembly (a) to reduce the number of Special Advisers by restricting the number available to OFMDFM to 4 as opposed to the current quota of 8; (b) restrict the remuneration of Special Advisers by linking it to the salary scale applicable to an Assistance Secretary; (c) expressly apply the disciplinary processes and procedures applicable within the Civil Service to Special Advisers. 12 DoE nmental_quality Draft Fluorinated officer response Greenhouse Gases Regulations (NI) 2015 The proposed Regulations aim to reduce the emissions of fluorinated greenhouse gases ( Fgases ), which have a significant impact on climate change. Council are to remain as the enforcing authority for the NI F-gas law as is detailed on Regulation NIA Dr K Pelan Clerk, Committee for Social Development Housing Bill (Amendment) noting The above Bill was formally introduced on 30 June Subject to approval by the Assembly at Second Stage, the Bill will then be referred to the Committee for Social Development which has responsibility for the Committee Stage of the Bill. Written submissions are therefore invited. The purpose of the Bill is to permit information sharing for the purposes of identifying owners of empty homes, extend the purpose for which information relating to anti-social behaviour may be disclosed, enable housing grants made in the form of loans to be registered as statutory charges. 14 NIHE Consultation on the officer response Community Cohesion Strategy The NIHE s job is to engage and enable local communities, agencies, young champions for change to get involved in good relations work in order to translate the strategy into practical action on the ground. Successful implementation of the community cohesion strategy calls for joined up thinking and collaborative working between and within communities, agencies and individuals.

63 Issuing Body (include Website address) Consultation Document Consultation Deadline Recommendation 1 - noting 2 officer(s) response, identify department 3 political parties 15 DHSSPS Consultation on officer response Regulations under the Tobacco Retailers Act (NI) 2014 Views are sought on three sets of draft regulations under the Tobacco Retailers Act (NI) The Act, which completed its passage through the Assembly in March 2014, aims to reduce youth smoking prevalence by making it more difficult for children and young people to access tobacco products. The Registration and Display of Notices Regulations (Annex B) prescribe Belfast City Council as the Registration Authority for the purposes of the Tobacco Retailers Act. This means that Belfast City Council will maintain a register of all persons carrying on a tobacco business in Northern Ireland. The regulations also provide details of the information to be provided on an application to the register and the wording and dimensions of a statement to be displayed in premises which are subject to a restricted premises order (sections 5 and 8 of the Tobacco Retailers Act). The second set of regulations (Annex C) prescribe the fixed penalty amounts that can be applied to allow a person to discharge their liability of offence in relation to: section 10 of the Tobacco Retailers Act (NI) 2014; Articles 3, 4 or 4A of the Health and Personal Social Services (NI) Order 1978; and Articles 4, 4A and 5 of the Children and Young Persons (Protection from Tobacco) (NI) Order The schedule to the draft regulations proposes that the amounts of fixed penalties for the relevant tobacco control offences are as shown within the document. In accordance with the Act, the notice must be paid within 28 days if the person wishes to discharge any liability for the offence. A reduction of 25% will be applied if payment is made within 14 days. The third set of regulations (Annex D) proposes a form for District Councils to use for fixed penalty notices in relation to tobacco offences. Although not specified in the draft regulations, District Councils will be able to: use a form in a different size or design, provided that the content of the notice is not changed; include additional information about how payments can be made; and include coats of arms, logos or other devices, or any illustration to assist with the completion of the notice. 16 Southern Health and Social Care Trust t/ consultations Proposal for Closure of Armagh Minor Injuries officer response (Currently Unit progressing joint public meeting for August 2015) A consultation on the future of the Armagh Minor Injuries Unit has recently been launched to determine its future viability. The Unit was temporarily closed in November 2014 without consultation in order to make savings. The demand has been absorbed at South Tyrone Hospital. The temporary closure will remain in place until a final decision on the future of the service is made following the consultation process. All other services based on the Tower Hill site including outpatient clinics, radiology and GP out of hours, remain open and continue to operate as normal.

64 Issuing Body (include Website address) Consultation Document 17 Department of Justice Consultation on Proposal to Change the time limits for Judicial Review Consultation Deadline noting Recommendation 1 - noting 2 officer(s) response, identify department 3 political parties Proceedings for judicial review currently must be brought promptly, ie three months from the date of the decision which is to be reviewed. It is proposed that there should be no requirement to bring judicial review proceedings promptly and that all proceedings should be required to be brought within three months of the date of the reviewed decision. This would provide a greater degree of certainty to the judicial review process and ensure continued compliance with obligations arising from EU law. 18 NIA Christine Darragh Clerk to the Committee for Justice Justice No 2 Bill noting Comments are sought on the content of the Bill. The following four amendments are proposed to be brought forward to Committee: Amendments to firearms legislation relation to a banded system, the age at which a young person can use a shotgun and fee types Proposals for a police power of arrest in relation to Fine Default Hearings Provisions to improve information access and sharing in the fine collection process Amendments to clause 45 of the Bill 19 NILGOSC Pension Administration noting Strategy Consultation The purpose of the Strategy is to highlight the responsibilities of NILGOSC and the Scheme s employing authorities when carrying out their respective Scheme functions. The Strategy sets out the service standards targets for both NILGOSC, as the Scheme Administrator, and for Scheme employers. When it has been finalised and published the Strategy will replace NILGOSC s Service Level Agreement and will apply to all employing authorities in the Scheme. 20 NI Courts and Tribunal Service Consultation on the Proposed Structure of Fees in the Court Funds Office noting It is proposed introduce a fee structure that is fair, equitable, transparent, easily understood and can be applied without administrative burden. 21 Department of Justice Consultation on noting Guidance for Criminal Records Filtering Review Mechanism Currently Access NI can in some instances remove convictions or other information off a standard or enhanced criminal record disclosure certificate (known as filtering). The Justice Bill makes provision for amendments to the Police Act 1997 to allow an individual to seek a review of the information remaining on a certificate, after the filtering process has been applied.

65 Issuing Body (include Website address) 22 DoE otect_the_environment/was te/waste_framework_directi ve.htm Consultation Document Draft Waste Management Licensing (Amendment No 2) Regulations (NI) 2015 Consultation Deadline Recommendation 1 - noting 2 officer(s) response, identify department 3 political parties officer response The consultation is seeking comments on proposed changes to waste management licensing exemptions. The proposed changes apply to paragraphs 12, 15, 17, 18, 19, 27 and 45 of Part 1 of Schedule 2 to the Waste Management Licensing Regulations. Exemptions were introduced with the aim of regulating waste management activities in Northern Ireland in a proportionate way. Certain activities were deemed to be small-scale and to have a low risk of adverse impact on the environment, human health and animal welfare, and were thus made exempt from the need for a licence. 23 DARD Draft DARD Children and Young People s Action Plan officer response DARD has a shared responsibility to deliver on the UK government s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, with its four General Principles of; nondiscrimination, survival and development, the best interests of the child; and participation. This is our second Action Plan. It is for a 3-year period ( ) and it builds on the work started in our first plan. The first Action Plan ( ) and the report on progress towards its targets can be found at 24 DARD Consultation on the Horse Racing (Charges on Bookmakers) Order (NI) noting Views are sought on the future rates for charges on bookmakers in NI which are paid into the Horse Racing Fund (HRF) administered by DARD. The HRF is used to support the two local racecourses, Downpatrick and Down Royal. 25 OFMDFM Consultation on Proposals to Extend Age Discrimination Legislation (Age Goods, Facilities and Services) noting The proposals are aimed at protecting adults and young people aged 16 years and over from discrimination on the basis of age in relation to goods, facilities and services, charities, premises, education, public functions and private clubs and associations. Whilst they are intended to prohibit harmful age discrimination, it is recognised that some forms of differential age treatment can be good. It is important to ensure that any new legislation only prohibits harmful or unjustifiable treatment that results in genuinely unfair discrimination because of age. A series of public meetings are being held between and (Armagh City Hotel: , from am to pm). Register to attend: or age@ofmdfmni.gov.uk.

66 Issuing Body (include Website address) Consultation Document Consultation Deadline Recommendation 1 - noting 2 officer(s) response, identify department 3 political parties 26 DRD Policies Screened out - 1 noting A screening analysis report has been prepared on policies which have been screened for likely impact on equality of opportunity and good relations. 27 HSENI Screening for Equality - 1 noting Impact Assessment A number of policies have been screened out from further equality action, however, these have already been subject to full consultation. 28 DSD Policies Screened April June noting A number of policies have been screened out from further equality action.

67 APPENDIX 3 CONSULTATION ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS/OUTCOMES RECEIVED: JULY 2015 Date of Organisation Consultation Document Response Received Rivers Agency Response on the draft Flood Risk Management Plans for NI Council received acknowledgement to its consultation response. Comments will be reviewed and taken into consideration. Rivers Agency will respond formally to Council about the consultation response in due course. Comments will be publicised at

68 APPENDIX 4 The draft Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (NI) 2015 Draft Consultation Comment Response by 31st August 2015 to Roger Irwin Environmental Policy Division Department of the Environment Goodwood House May Street Town Parks Belfast BT1 4NN By roger.irwin@doeni.gov.uk or aeqteam@doeni.gov.uk Date: XXXXXX The following consultation comments have been prepared by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. The Council have examined the consultation document and draft Regulations and provide the following responses to the consultation questions. Q1. Do you agree that having a consistent set of enforcement provisions across Northern Ireland and the UK is the best approach? Yes Q2. Do you think the proposed balance between direct criminal offences and enforcement notices is appropriate to ensure effective compliance with the EU Regulation? Yes Q3. Do you know of any businesses in NI which use ORCs? No Q4. Do you agree with the financial calculations in the Partial Regulatory Impact Assessment, or do you have any alternative statistics to offer? No comment is offered in relation to costs to businesses. The cost to enforcement bodies will be determined by the regulatory effort necessary. The Council expect the Department as the competent authority under the appropriate regulations to agree the regulatory effort in consultation with the Council. It would be expected that a risk-based (centralised where possible) and proportionate approach would be followed in a manner similar to that employed during the introduction of the previous set of F-gas Regulations. In effect this would mean that businesses already deemed to be compliant following previous inspections would not be re-visited. New businesses brought into the regime by virtue of the draft Regulations, with specific reference to the estimated 60,000 refrigerated trucks operating in the U.K., should first be considered using a risk-based approach and the largest operators should be asked to sign-up to compliance agreements with their home local authority using a contractor engaged by DEFRA and DOE. In a similar manner to the approach agreed by DOE to stationery installations under the 2009 regulations, it would appear likely that inspections of small or individual operators of refrigerated trucks would be disproportionate to the benefit to be gained. Therefore the Council would not expect to be undertaking such inspections. Q5. Do you have any concerns, financial or otherwise, on how the new provisions of the draft NI F-gas Regulations may impact upon you and/or your business/organisation? No comment offered.

69 Q6. Based on your experience, do you agree with the assumptions made for the time required to complete each activity (tables 1 and 2 in section 4.11 of this document)? If not, can you provide any additional evidence to inform our assumptions of the time requirements required to complete each activity? No comment offered. Q7. Do you anticipate there to be any additional compliance or enforcement activity associated with the draft NI F-gas Regulations that we have not considered in this document? If so, can you provide an estimate of the cost impact of this? None anticipated, although this will need to be subject to direction from the Department and agreement by the Council. Q8. Is there any specific new provision of the draft NI F-gas regulations, as specified in section 2 of this document, which gives you or your organisation any cause for concern? No. If any further clarification or information is required please do not hesitate to contact: Paul McCullough Principal Environmental Health Officer (Environmental Protection) Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council

70 APPENDIX 5 A DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE CONSULTATION DRAFT NORTHERN IRELAND HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND EXPLOITATION STRATEGY 2015/16 29 June Building a fair, just and safer community

71 RESPONDING TO THIS CONSULTATION i. An electronic version of this document is available in the consultation section of the Department of Justice website ( Hard copies will be posted on request. Textphone contact details are provided below. ii. Copies in other formats, including Braille, large print, computer disk etc may be made available on request. Please let us know if you need copies in an alternative language or format. iii. Responses should be ed to or posted to the following address: Human Trafficking Team Protection and Organised Crime Division Department of Justice Room B4.20 Castle Buildings Stormont Estate Belfast BT4 3SG Telephone: Textphone: iv. The closing date for this consultation is 21 August v. The DOJ will publish a summary of responses following the completion of the consultation process. Unless individual respondents specifically indicate that they wish their response to be treated in confidence, their name and the nature of their response may be included in any published summary of responses. Respondents should also be aware that the DOJ s obligations under the Freedom of Information Act may require that any responses, not subject to specific exemptions in the Act, may be disclosed to other parties on request. 2

72 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page number 1. Introduction 4 2. Impact assessments 7 3. Summary of targeted consultation 8 4. Queries or concerns Annex A Draft Northern Ireland Human Trafficking and 11 Exploitation Strategy 2015/16 6. Annex B Response questionnaire 44 3

73 1. INTRODUCTION Background 1.1 Section 12 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 places a requirement on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to produce an annual strategy on offences under section 1 and 2 of the Act (slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking). 1.2 The draft strategy attached at Annex A has been developed by the DOJ after extensive engagement with both civil society partners on the DOJ s Human Trafficking Engagement Group and statutory partners on the Organised Crime Task Force s (OCTF) Immigration and Human Trafficking Subgroup. 1.3 It builds on the work that has already been progressed under the 2013/14 and 2014/15 human trafficking action plans for Northern Ireland. Progress reports against these previous action plans can be found at: Purpose of strategy 1.4 In line with section 12 of the Act, the purpose of the draft strategy is to raise awareness of human trafficking and slavery-like offences in Northern Ireland and to contribute to a reduction in the number of such offences. 1.5 Section 12 of the Act also sets out that the strategy must, in particular, cover the arrangements for co-operation between relevant organisations; provision as to the training and equipment for investigators, prosecutors and those dealing with victims; and provisions aimed at raising awareness of the rights and entitlements of victims. 4

74 1.6 The draft strategy has been developed to ensure that these issues are addressed and has also been informed by: the Whitehall Modern Slavery Strategy for the United Kingdom; the EU Strategy towards the Eradication of Trafficking in Human Beings ; and the OCTF strategic profile report (February 2015) on potential victims of human trafficking in Northern Ireland. 1.7 We would particularly welcome views on whether the draft strategy at Annex A meets the requirements of section 12 of the Act. Strategic aim and priorities 1.8 Following engagement with key stakeholders we have identified an overarching strategic aim: To equip Northern Ireland to drive out human trafficking, slavery and forced labour. 1.9 This aim is underpinned by four strategic priorities: Pursue (effective detection, disruption, investigation and prosecution of offenders); Protect and support (provision of effective protection and support and improved identification of victims; Prevent (prevent and reduce risk of human trafficking and exploitation in Northern Ireland); and Partnership (effective partnership response to human trafficking and exploitation) These priorities are in turn supported by a number of key objectives and SMART actions which the DOJ and its partners have committed to delivering during 2015/ We welcome comments on the appropriateness of the proposed strategic aim and priorities as well as on the proposed objectives and actions that have been identified. 5

75 Consultation 1.12 Whilst we have already engaged with our key partners and stakeholders we want to ensure that other individuals and organisations are afforded an opportunity to comment on the draft and to inform the final strategy. In particular we are keen to consult with other bodies, agencies or organisations whose functions or activities seek to tackle human trafficking or slavery-like offences or support the victims of these offences. Interested parties are invited to consider the draft strategy at Annex A and to complete and return the response questionnaire at Annex B by 21 August. Next steps 1.13 Following consultation the DOJ will evaluate the responses received and (as necessary) produce a revised strategy to be shared with the Justice Committee. We anticipate that the final strategy will be published by early October. In order not to lose momentum, however, we intend to continue to work with our delivery partners towards implementation of the strategy whilst still in draft form, throughout the duration of the consultation period. 6

76 2. IMPACT ASSESSMENTS Equality Impact 2.1 As a public authority under Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 the Department of Justice is required to have due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity. This legislation also requires public authorities to identify whether a policy has a differential impact upon relevant groups; the nature and extent of that impact; and whether such an impact is justified. These obligations are designed to ensure that equality and good relations considerations are made central to government policy development. 2.2 We believe that the draft strategy would be beneficial and would have no adverse effect in Section 75 terms. It would reinforce Northern Ireland s defences against human trafficking and slavery-like offences. It will facilitate effective investigations and prosecutions and will help to ensure that victims are identified, protected and supported. 2.3 We do not therefore consider that an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) is required. Our screening form is available on the DOJ website. 2.4 Comments on our screening assessment and equality conclusions, however, are welcome. Financial and public sector impact 2.5 We do not anticipate that any of the proposed actions in the draft strategy would have a significant cost impact. The draft strategy has been developed to coordinate efforts to make the best possible use of available resources. Any costs that may arise are likely to absorbed by the Department of Justice and its statutory partners. 7

77 3. SUMMARY OF TARGETED CONSULTEES 3.1 This consultation has been made publicly available on the DOJ website. In addition, we have identified a number of key stakeholders who we believe will have a direct interest in the proposals set out in this paper and have invited their comments. The list of key stakeholders is set out below: - MLAs - Northern Ireland MPs - Northern Ireland MEPs - Northern Ireland political parties - Northern Ireland Government Departments - Councils - Health and Social Care Trusts - Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunal Service - Churches - Civil society organisations - Cultural organisations - Equality Commission Northern Ireland - Police Service of Northern Ireland - Police Ombudsman - Northern Ireland Policing Board - Probation Board Northern Ireland - Public Prosecution Service for Northern Ireland - Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland - NIACRO - Northern Ireland Audit Office - Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission - Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People - Northern Ireland Prison Service - Community groups - Members of the OCTF Immigration and Human Trafficking subgroup - Members of the Human Trafficking Engagement Group and other NGOs - Joseph Rowntree Foundation 8

78 - Lord Chief Justice - Designate Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner - Attorney General - Law Society - Bar Council 9

79 4. QUERIES OR CONCERNS 4.1 If you have any queries or concerns about the way in which the consultation has been handled please contact the DOJ Consultation Co-ordinator at the following address: Peter Grant Department of Justice Central Co-ordination Branch Central Management Unit Knockview Buildings Stormont Estate Belfast Telephone Text phone:

80 ANNEX A Pursue Protect and support DRAFT NORTHERN IRELAND HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND EXPLOITATION STRATEGY 2015/16 Prevent 11

81 1. FOREWORD I am pleased to publish the first annual Human Trafficking and Exploitation Strategy for Northern Ireland, in line with section 12 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) The strategy builds on the Human Trafficking and Exploitation Action Plans for Northern Ireland that have been produced over the last two years, which have helped to set a clear strategic direction for my Department and its partners. Human trafficking and practices such as slavery and forced labour so-called modern slavery - are life shattering crimes that degrade and dehumanise innocent men, women and children. To traffickers, victims are not seen in terms of their humanity, but only in terms of what profit they can bring as commodities. Tackling these offences and the people who perpetrate them is a priority for me and for my Department. This strategy includes a raft of challenging and targeted actions that my Department and its partners are committed to delivering over the next twelve months. Partnership is a key thread running through this strategy. We cannot do this alone. I greatly value the eagerness of our strategic partners, both statutory and non-statutory, to work collaboratively in a joined-up and effective manner. It is only through working together that we will be able to bring these crimes out of the shadows and bring perpetrators to justice. The strategy has been developed around four strategic priorities which, together, provide the focus for our collective work. These priorities are: 1. Pursue (effective detection, disruption, investigation and prosecution of offenders); 12

82 2. Protect and support (protection and support for and improved identification of victims); 3. Prevent (prevent and reduce risk of human trafficking and exploitation in Northern Ireland); 4. Partnership (effective joined-up response to human trafficking and exploitation). DAVID FORD MLA Minister of Justice I believe that this strategy and the objectives and actions underpinning it reinforce Northern Ireland s defences against these appalling crimes. It will facilitate effective investigations and prosecutions and will help to ensure that victims are identified, protected and supported. Section 12 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 requires my Department to refresh this strategy on an annual basis. This will ensure that the strategy remains relevant and that the response to tackling human trafficking and exploitation will continue to strengthen. 13

83 2. INTRODUCTION This strategy was developed by the Department of Justice in collaboration with its civil society partners on the Department s Human Trafficking Engagement Group and statutory partners on the Organised Crime Task Force s (OCTF) Immigration and Human Trafficking Subgroup. In line with section 12 of the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 ( the 2015 Act), the purpose of this strategy is to raise awareness of human trafficking and slavery-like offences in Northern Ireland and to contribute to a reduction in the number of such offences. In doing so, it also seeks to improve victim identification and recovery and ensure that victims can have access to adequate protection and support. Under section 12 of the 2015 Act the strategy is required to: set out arrangements for co-operation between relevant organisations; include provision as to training and equipment for investigators, prosecutors and those dealing with victims and; include provisions aimed at raising awareness of the rights and entitlements of victims. The development of the strategy has been informed by: consultation with relevant organisations actively involved in tackling human trafficking and exploitation in Northern Ireland; measures and requirements under the 2015 Act and the Modern Slavery Act 2015; the Home Secretary s Modern Slavery Strategy; the EU Strategy towards the Eradication of Trafficking in Human Beings ; and the OCTF strategic profile report on potential victims of human trafficking recovered in Northern Ireland (April 2009 to August 2013). 14

84 This strategy is underpinned by a range of SMART actions which clearly set out the work that the Department of Justice and its partners intend to deliver during 2015/16. 15

85 3. BACKGROUND 3.1 MODERN SLAVERY IN NORTHERN IRELAND Human trafficking and slavery, servitude and forced or compulsory labour are largely hidden crimes, which makes it difficult to establish an accurate assessment of the nature and extent of the problem in Northern Ireland. Scale Our most reliable information is taken from the United Kingdom Human Trafficking Centre s analysis of cases that have been referred to the National Referral Mechanism (NRM). The NRM is the United Kingdom s national process for identifying victims of human trafficking and ensuring that they receive appropriate protection and support. In addition, The OCTF has conducted research on potential victims of human trafficking who were referred into the NRM from Northern Ireland between April 2009 and August The key findings from this research were published in February During ,340 potential victims of modern slavery were referred to the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) in the United Kingdom so that their cases could be assessed. 45 of these potential victims were referred to the NRM from Northern Ireland (16 females and 29 males). This compares to 41 potential victims referred from Northern Ireland in Exploitation type Graph A provides a breakdown of the 45 potential victims recovered in Northern Ireland during 2014 according to exploitation type. Of these, 33 (73%) individuals in 2014 were referred in connection with labour exploitation or domestic servitude. 22 of these potential victims were recovered as part of a single PSNI operation

86 The prevalence of labour exploitation last year marked a departure from previous years, where sexual exploitation had been the most common exploitation type. GRAPH A Breakdown of exploitation type - potential victims referred to the NRM from NI in 2014 Unknown exploitation 18% The OCTF s the strategic profile of potential victims of human trafficking recovered in Northern Ireland (April 2009 to August 2013) found that 49% (48 out of 97) of the potential victims had been trafficked for sexual exploitation. In the case of eight of the potential victims referred in 2014 the exploitation type is recorded as unknown. In these cases, the person may have been recovered before the exploitation took place. Our strategic response has been informed by these trends. In recognition of emerging issues around forced labour in Northern Ireland, the strategy includes specific objectives and actions that are intended to raise awareness and reduce the risk of labour exploitation, whilst still maintaining a focus on other exploitation types. Sexual exploitation 9% Domestic servitude 2% Labour exploitation 71% Age of potential victims 37 (82%) of the potential victims recovered in 2014 were adults and 8 (18%) were minors. The OCTF s wider strategic profile of potential victims indicates an age range which spans six decades, the youngest at only three years old to the oldest at almost 60 years old. 17

87 Romania China Albania Vietnam Lithuania Slovakia United Kingdom Portugal Philippines South Africa South Korea Western Sahara Ireland Nigeria Poland Guinea Bissau Egypt In response, we have sought to ensure that the strategy includes actions which focus on both adult and child victims. Nationality of potential victims Graph B shows the country of origin of potential victims who were referred to the NRM from Northern Ireland during 2013 and GRAPH B County of Origin - Referrals from NI 2013 and 2014 It is worth emphasising that potential victims are not always foreign nationals and indeed the United Kingdom and Ireland feature amongst the most common countries of origin of potential victims. In 2013, Operation Owl (a PSNI investigation into child sexual exploitation) led to a significant increase in referrals of sexual exploitation cases of UK and Irish nationals. This strategy reflects a number of actions that will be driven forward through the Department s Tackling Child Sexual Exploitation in Northern Ireland Action Plan The OCTF s strategic profile report indicated that mainland Great Britain and Ireland are key transit countries for potential victims who have been recovered in Northern Ireland. Only a small number of potential entered Northern Ireland directly from outside the United Kingdom and Ireland and in these cases Spain and Holland have been identified as key transit countries. 18