https://www.irishnews.com/news/northern-ireland/ofcom-geoblocking-report-suggests-uk-and-irish-governments-look-again-at-digital-tv-pact-to-allow-northern-viewers-to-see-rte-and-tg4-content-MJNRIDED3NEZTCGAXMB4P75EOQ/

Ofcom ‘Geoblocking’ report suggests UK and Irish governments look again at digital TV pact to allow northern viewers to see RTÉ and TG4 content

NI digital TV viewers remain locked out of some RTÉ broadcasts, including major sporting events

Broadcast watchdog Ofcom says the British and Irish governments should revisit a digital TV broadcasting pact as a way of tackling RTÉ content being ‘geoblocked’ in Northern Ireland.

The UK regulator has acknowledged in a new report that broadcasts from both RTÉ and TG4 “have an established place in the media landscape of Northern Ireland, and the cross-border availability of services supports cultural, linguistic and public service objectives”.

The report was commissioned following a recent meeting between the regulator and Stormont’s economy minister Caoimhe Archibald.

Geoblocking mainly concerns sport, with digital viewers in the north barred from accessing the live broadcasts of certain events including Ireland’s Rugby Six Nations matches, and the historic final fight of boxer Katie Taylor’s career last month.

UK IP addresses are often blocked for some broadcasts due to rights issues, meaning they can only be screened in the Republic.

Northern viewers have also been unable to watch RTÉ’s The Traitors via catch-up.

Ofcom has said both RTÉ and TG4 attempt to seek all-island broadcast rights “whenever these are available”.

However, sporting organisations often sell separate rights packages for the UK and the Republic.

Suggestions for solving the problem have included the creation of unique IP addresses identifying viewers in Northern Ireland, and not the rest of the UK, which was proposed by Irish News sports journalist Cahair O’Kane, and discussed at Westminster in 2024 by SDLP leader Claire Hannah.

Geoblocking of RTÉ content in the north has been slammed as “completely unacceptable” by Ms Archibald, while her party colleague, Fermanagh and South Tyrone Sinn Féin MLA Áine Murphy, said NI viewers were being treated with “contempt”.

In the new Ofcom report, the regulator recommends “continued dialogue between the UK and Irish Governments, broadcasters, relevant sporting organisations, ISPs (internet service providers) and technical providers”.

It suggests there may be scope for broadcasters, sports bodies and rights holders to “develop event-specific workarounds”.

Ofcom say potential measures to “mitigate” geoblocking include a verified account scheme or dedicated set-top boxes for NI viewers with access key codes.

It adds: “Most importantly, Ofcom considers that there may be merit in the UK and Irish Governments considering whether the objectives of their 2010 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on digital television services remains fit for a media environment increasingly characterised by IP-delivered services.”

That agreement, signed by British and Irish ministers, committed both governments to ensuring RTÉ and TG4 services would remain widely available in Northern Ireland after the switching off of analogue broadcasts in 2012.

Ofcom has warned the pact does not reflect how many viewers now access TV through streaming. “The MoU helped enable the wider availability of RTÉ and TG4 through digital terrestrial television in Northern Ireland, but it predates the present scale of IP viewing and is focused only on traditional terrestrial distribution,” the Ofcom report states.

“A refreshed MoU could set a high-level shared objective of sustaining widespread access to Republic of Ireland public service content in Northern Ireland across IP-delivered platforms, subject to rights and legal constraints.

“Such a commitment would not in itself change broadcasting rights contracts or the workings of ISP networks. It could, however, provide a clearer policy framework for cooperation, strengthen the position of broadcasters when engaging with rights holders and technical partners, and ensure that the original all-island public service objective is not eroded as content delivery becomes increasingly internet-based.”

The report also suggests that unique Northern Ireland IP addresses “may be technically feasible for some providers, but addresses are scarce and expensive, implementation could be disproportionate (and) we would not expect providers to adopt it voluntarily absent a strong incentive”.

Ms Archibald said she has again written to governments in London and Dublin “to seek their engagement and cooperation on resolving this issue once and for all”.

“As a first step, I have asked the governments to review the objectives of the 2010 Memorandum of Understanding on digital television services and for their further engagement on the issue,” she said.

“It is unacceptable that there is a risk of increased geo-blocking for the north as viewing habits evolve. This is a deeply unfair practice that detrimentally impacts audiences here. It is time to end geo-blocking for residents in the north.”

A spokesperson for the Republic’s Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, told the Irish News: “The Department is aware of the OfCom report. There is ongoing engagement between the Department and their UK counterparts on such matters of common interest.

“The Department understands that broadcasters and regulators in both jurisdictions are also engaging on this matter.”

The UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport and RTÉ was approached for comment.

​

Looking for some advice regarding a speeding offence in the north.

Moved house around a year ago and forgot to update my address on my car insurance.

Caught speeding in April (50 in a 40).

All letters asking me to identify the driver and pay the fine went to my old address.

My old landlord contacted me this week to say I had a stack of post.

The latest letter is a court summons for November.

I’d prefer to plead guilty by post rather than attend court.

I’m worried about how much the fine will be, how many penalty points I’ll get, and whether a speed awareness course is still an option.

I’m speaking to a solicitor tomorrow, but any advice from anyone who’s been through something similar would be appreciated.

I feel like a piece of shit for speeding , so I deserve it before anyone says.

Getting my parents a wee present out of my first paycheck from my new job. I randomly came across The Lantern and it seems to have good reviews. Is the pre-theatre menu any good?

Just wanted to apologies, ive been ear bashing this sub a bit but hopefully this is the last you hear of me!

Im 21 and recently sale agreed on a house, the survey came back approved but these were flagged on the survey - it’ll be tight but co-own said these must be resolved after 6 months

I was just wondering, do these estimates of fixing tend to be accurate, mainly for the electrical and outside gutter bit flagged in image 2?

I don’t know much about this, but looking at image 2 I’m having a hard time seeing how the timber could cost around 1k to repair. If anyone knowledgeable on this could have a nosey at this and see if the estimates and pretty accurate that would be amazing, (hopefully cheaper lol)

I’m planning on buying a house next year, I’ve almost hit my savings goal for everything including furniture and I’m planning on spending the next few months gathering up little bits and pieces so it doesn’t have to come out of my furnishing budget when I move in.

But for people who’ve bought homes in NI already, what’s are some things you wish you’d done or done differently in the 6 months prior that you didn’t think about until after buying?

Hi everyone, I’m an Indian passport holder living in India and planning a trip in November 2026. I have two approved visas:

An Irish single-entry short-stay C visa for a training programme, without a BIVS endorsement.

A separate UK multiple-entry visitor eVisa marked “British-Irish visa scheme”.

I plan to arrive in Dublin using my Irish visa, finish my training, then visit Belfast by train for one night. I would return to Dublin by train and fly from Dublin to London a few days later.

Belfast would be my first UK entry on the "BIVS" eVisa.

Does this itinerary work with my visas, or could I face any immigration issues? My main concern is returning to Dublin because my Irish visa on the passport is single-entry. But I would be using the UK BIVS eVisa for that return after visiting Belfast.

I’ve read the official guidance about entering the BIVS visa-issuing country first, but I’m unsure how this works when my first UK entry is by train into Belfast. Would I receive a UK entry stamp or need to visit an immigration office? If no stamp is issued, what evidence should I keep, and what would I need to do when returning to Dublin?

I would appreciate relevant guidance or experience with a similar situation.

Thanks!

The A4 Enniskillen Southern Bypass could face further delays after it was revealed it is subject to a legal challenge.
Minister for Infrastructure Liz Kimmins confirmed her department had received the High Court Write in January.
It challenged the procurement process as unlawful and it could lead to further delays in the development of the bypass.
There was hope that it would begin moving after the outcome of the A5 appeal earlier this month.
But Ms. Kimmins said: “I had provided my officials with instruction to proceed to the Notice of Intention to Award stage, ensuring that the substantial work already undertaken on the scheme was not lost while the Department awaited the outcome of the A5 appeal. 
“I am now in a position to advise that my Department received a formal High Court Writ of Summons on 13 January 2026 which challenged the procurement process as unlawful.
“My officials have been engaging with representatives from Departmental Solicitor’s Office to defend our position with regard to this competition.
“Any decision to award the contract will be dependent on the successful completion of the procurement process and the legalities of the Writ.
“I am further assured by the Minister of Finance’s confirmation that projects for which there is an Executive Commitment, such as the A4 Enniskillen Southern Bypass, will receive the ringfenced funding in future years. I remain committed to the delivery of the scheme.”
Ulster Unionist Deputy leader Diana Armstrong has the public deserve answers on why news of the High Court Writ has only now been made public, and called on the Minister to provide a timetable on the future of the A4 Bypass.
She said: “People in Enniskillen have waited almost twenty years for this bypass. Since becoming an MLA, I have pushed at every opportunity for the delivery of this much-needed project, because I know the difference it will make to the town and to everyone who travels through it.
“Construction was meant to start in 2025. With the A5 appeal now decided, people rightly expected the bypass to move forward. Instead, the Minister has now told me the tender process has been under legal challenge since January.
“In answers to my questions throughout this year, the Minister pointed only to the A5. At no point did she mention a writ that had been served in January. I asked when work would begin. Her latest answer arrived two weeks late and gave no date.
“The Minister must explain what this means for the timetable, and ensure the full budget, including the £6.6 million handed back earlier this year, is available the moment the contract can be awarded. I will keep pressing until work starts.”

https://www.impartialreporter.com/news/26670920.a4-enniskillen-bypass-faces-delays-court-challenge/

Looking for something to do on a Friday or Saturday night and used to be into Texas Holdem. Anyone know if there are any groups or people that host near Portadown. Be willing to travel to Belfast if needs be.

🏸 Badminton – Newtownabbey 🏸

Looking to play badminton in Newtownabbey? We'd love to have you join us!

Whether you're a complete beginner, getting back into the sport, or an experienced player looking for competitive games, everyone is welcome. Our aim is to bring local people together, stay active, improve our game, and have fun.

📍 All sessions take place at Valley Leisure Centre, Newtownabbey.

✅ All abilities welcome
✅ Friendly and social atmosphere
✅ Great way to stay active and meet new people
✅ Regular weekly sessions

If you'd like to join any of the sessions, simply comment below or send us a message—we're always happy to welcome new players!

📘 Join our Facebook Community:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1931895408213128

💬 Join our WhatsApp Group:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/Hu2q2JeRxeeEs6ICSO2PZw?mode=gi_t

Bring your racket, invite a friend, and we'll see you on court! 🏸

I'm a final-year student doing a uni project on hospital discharge letters in Northern Ireland. Since encompass came in, I can't find anything public showing what the discharge letter to the GP looks like.

If you write or receive these, could you tell me roughly what headings or sections it has? For example: diagnosis, medication changes, follow-up and so on. It would also help to know whether it differs between Trusts.

I'd really appreciate your help as it's important for my project.

Many thanks!

Possible dangerous plastic bag(s) seen floating on carnmoney road, no owner and left unattended, be careful and if anyone has any info feel free to share

Thought this was fake but unfortunately not. Absolutely insane behaviour, Jim.

Proposals to significantly pedestrianise parts of Belfast city centre have been unveiled.
A city centre-wide 20mph speed limit will also be introduced under the proposals.
The details are contained in the draft Eastern Transport Plan 2035, which is now the subject of a 12-week public consultation.
Stormont's Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said the plans would help deliver a "modern transport system that better serves residents, businesses and visitors alike".
Under the proposals, the Bridge Street area beside the old Assembly Rooms will be transformed into a new public realm space.
Donegall Square West, which currently serves Metro buses, will be closed to traffic to become another new pedestrianised zone.
Royal Avenue and Donegall Place will return to two-way public transport traffic to accommodate the planned expansion of the Glider service to north and south Belfast.
The proposals involve "expanded pedestrian-priority streets and a new civic spine", the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) said.
They also include a "city centre-wide 20mph speed limit", an "expanded segregated cycling network", reduced through-traffic and parking management reforms.
A public consultation on the 270-page Eastern Transport Plan (ETP) runs until 25 January 2027.
The consultation covers the first phase of the ETP, which focuses on proposals for Belfast city centre and the wider metropolitan area.
It was published alongside another policy document called Transport Strategy 2035, which seeks to deliver a "cleaner, smarter and more inclusive transport system".

Stormont's Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said the plans would help deliver a "modern transport system"
In a statement Kimmins said that "at its heart, the ETP is about people".
"I am committed to building a transport network that is accessible and welcoming for people of all backgrounds, incomes and abilities, enabling them to access opportunities and reach their full potential," she said.
"This draft plan is an important first step in transforming how people move around the region, and public feedback will play a vital role in shaping its future.
"I encourage everyone to share their views and engage with the consultation process so that, together, we can create a better transport system for all."

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjy567yn0qv5o

He is some outspoken activist but he's in all the videos whether it be wen they visit the Apple Store and Home Bargains and he's always speaking their mind. Why is he not more famous for trying to stop injustices in our world?

Recently, they've been targeting Sainsbury's and said about how they got rid of all the Israel products with the help of the West Belfast community, so clearly they made Sainsbury's realise that their store could close down for buying Israeli products.

A man has appeared at Lisburn Magistrates' Court charged with causing death by careless driving after the death of a woman on Friday.

Mark Branagan, 34, and with an address at Muskett Road in Carryduff, was also charged with driving without a licence, driving without insurance and being an unaccompanied learner driver.

The victim, a pedestrian, was Pauline Downing who was in her 60s.

She was hit by a car on Friday afternoon in Aghagallon, County Antrim.

Police received a report at about 14:50 BST on Friday of a collision involving a pedestrian and an Audi Q3 on the Lurgan Road.

Emergency services attended but the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.

A detective constable told the court he was able to connect Branagan to the charges.

Branagan appeared in court in a gray tracksuit and no application for bail was made.

He will appear in Craigavon Magistrates' Court again on Friday 30 October.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c6z7xg3zxn7qo

Looking for some information about sex shops in Belfast city!
Anyone with any info gladly appreciate

Anyone have any tips or experience with Council interviews?

For anyone here who's bought a car from England, how did you do it? Did you buy privately, buy from an auction or buy from a dealer that does nationwide delivery and get it delivered to your house?

Need to get my practical test booked ASAP, the availability of slots at the test centre my instructor uses only free up in January.

Should i just book it anyway then try and find a cancellation?

Or once I’m booked I’m locked in, so better wait and keep refreshing the page for something this year?

Hi all,

I used to see a particular street performer in the Cregagh / Woodstock area of Belfast quite often. But I haven't seen him recently.

He would dance on the street. Flamboyantly. Often wearing bright coloured outfits - that is to say bright clothes rather than costume.

I would describe him as broad-shouldered, heavier set, and black.

I have always thought dancing in public like that - and in that part of town even - was an incredibly brave thing for him to do. He always looked happy doing it too; not a hint of anxiety.

Does anyone on this sub know who I might be talking about? I'm not sure if he has a public profile as a performer, or whether I might be able to find him through the grapevine. Feel free to DM me if you think you know him and he doesn't have / want a public profile.

Thanks in advance!

Saw someone asking about an indoor ferris wheel and I have a few follow up questions about where things went and also would be interested to know what else people remember that is now gone. Or…never existed and I’m just insane.

Did the carrick centre not have a wee ride in the shape of a helmet that took you around the upper level, but it was a historical, educational ride?

Also what happened to dreamworld? I’d absolutely go back to dreamworld as an adult. I know jungle Jim’s had rats so that’s fair but funky monkeys a) isn’t for adults and b) doesn’t have half the cool injury threats that our play areas had