Christmas Campaign
As part of our Christmas Campaign we focused on binge drinking and the need to remember personal safety when out. Below are samples of the campaign poster in both 48 sheet bill boards and telephone kiosks. They are published in Catherine Street and Main Street, Limavady, Drumsurn, Dungiven and Burnfoot.
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13th December 2007
Drug and Alcohol Awareness Event
Limavady DPP hosted a very successful Drugs and Alcohol awareness event on Tuesday the 11th December at Roe Valley Leisure Centre. The event involved 250 14 - 16 year olds from the local schools and Limavady College.
The impetus for the event came as a result of four years of public consultation by the District Policing Partnership where the issue of drug dealing and drug use was one of the top issues for the Borough of Limavady. The issue of alcohol abuse has also been identified. The District Policing Partnership is very aware that both issues are larger than an enforcement issue and have therefore worked in partnership with other organizations to deliver the event.
The event involved several key speakers. The PSNI Neighborhood Policing team gave a comprehensive presentation on the types, names and effects of different types of drugs. The officers also had dummy samples of the drugs for the participants to look at. The event also included a very moving presentation from a former drug user, the speaker recounted the effect that drugs had on her life and how difficult it was to get off them. Other agencies who contributed to the event were ZEST, HURT and the Divert project.
Limavady DPP chairman, Cllr Michael Coyle commented “It is very important that education events on drug and alcohol abuse are run continually. We in Limavady know only too well how drugs affect our society and how susceptible our young adults are to alcohol abuse in particular. Limavady DPP are also focusing our Christmas campaign on alcohol abuse as it is a particular concern for us.”
For further information contact Angela Martin, Limavady DPP Manager, 028 777 60314
3rd December 2007
Limavady DPP Welcomes New Political Members
Councillor Michael Coyle, newly appointed chair of Limavady District Policing Partnership, has today welcomed the new political members on to Limavady DPP.
DPP members appointed
“I am pleased to welcome the appointment of Cllr Cathal Ó hOisín, Cllr Paddy Butcher, Cllr Brenda Chivers, Cllr Marion Donaghy and Cllr Boyd Douglas to the DPP for the coming four years. I welcome the opportunity to work with these new members in the bid to shape local policing and reach out to all people of the Borough. I am looking forward to further advancing the work of the DPP with the both the new and existing members whilst acknowledging the contribution made by previous members. They will find their roles both challenging and rewarding”
Outgoing DPP members
Mr Coyle paid tribute to Cllr Jack Rankin, Cllr George Robinson, Cllr Leslie Cubitt and Cllr Michael Carten for their valuable contribution to the Partnership in its formative years. He commented “They have together played an important role during the DPP’s first two-and-a-half years of office, working alongside the independent members, in shaping local policing through being the voice of policing, facilitating discussion on policing, input into drafting of the local policing plan and monitoring the work of the police locally. Each of them has approached the task with enthusiasm and dedication, and brought their own individual experience, perspective and links with the community.
The reconstituted Board, comprising of 17 members, come from a broad range of opinions, experience, and backgrounds, and will continue to build on the learning gained in the past into this new term, with the clear purpose of being the local voice on policing, and together making the Borough safer through partnership working, and to shape local policing.”
Together, the members of the DPP have five main responsibilities to:
consult the local community on key policing issues
identify local policing priorities
monitor the work of the PSNI locally
engage with the community, with a view to gaining the cooperation of the public with the police in the prevention of crime
act as a general forum for discussion of policing issues
Meanwhile Limavady DPP would like to respond to an article which was published in the Belfast Telegraph on Monday the 26th November 2007. In the article the author recounts their experience of being a drug user and a small time dealer and their experience with the police and lack of support received from them or other agencies. The DPP would like to encourage any individual experiencing similar problems to contact them to bring these issues to light so that they can act on them or assist in any way. The DPP can be contacted on 777 60314.
Notes to editors
For further information, please contact Angela Martin, Phone 026 777 60314, or Mobile 079 7169 4908,
Bee Safe Initiative
Limavady DPP provided funding for this excellent event which took place on 28th - 30th November 2007 in Roe Valley Leisure Centre, Limavady. The event targeted Primary 7 pupils and was open to all schools in the Limavady Borough area. 'Bee Safe' is an initiative designed to equip children with the knowledge and skills to stay safe and to cope effectively should they find themselves in a potentially dangerous situation. The initiative complements accident prevention and community safety work within the school setting and prepares children for the transition to secondary education.
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Good Relations Event
This event was held on 14th November 2007 at Roe Valley Leisure Centre from 10am to 12.30pm. It was organised jointly by Glenshane Community Development, Hands That Talk and Limavady DPP. It was an educational event for 11-12 year olds and 10 students from each of the secondary schools in the borough attended with the exception of St. Patricks College in Dungiven who were unable to attend. The purpose of the event was to educate the young people on the work of the Emergency Services. An excellent presentation was delivered by each of the three Emergency Services and the participants went away with a better understanding of the need for the Emergency Services and their work and with a real insight into how attacks on the Services can impact on their work.
19th October 2007
Meeting in Public
Limavady District Policing Partnership will hold its next meeting in public on Wednesday 14th November 2007 in Limavady Borough Council Offices, commencing 16.00 hours. At the meeting, the Acting Area Commander, Inspector Clive Spence will present an overview of the crime picture within the district for the months of April – September 2007. Members of the DPP will raise questions/issues with the Acting Area Commander about this report.
Members of the public can submit written questions in advance of the meeting, or they can ask a member of the DPP to raise a question/issue on their behalf. There will also be an opportunity for questions to be raised by those attending.
All correspondence, requests for information or questions for submission to the police Acting Area Commander through the District Policing Partnership, should be sent to:
Post: FREEPOST Limavady DPP
Email: dpplimavady.gov.uk
Recording Facilities: 028 777 60314
Web: www.districtpolicing.com/limavady
For further information contact: Angela Martin on 028 777 60314.
19th October 2007
Seizure of Ecstasy Tablets
Edwin Stevenson, Mayor of Limavady and member of Limavady District Policing Partnership met with Acting Area Commander, Inspector Clive Spence to look at recent seizure of ecstasy tablets, with an estimated street value of £50,000. Inspector Spence explained that the seizure came about as a result of information supplied to the police from a member of the public which allowed these drugs to be taken out of circulation. He also stated that “the police cannot work in isolation, they need the co-operation of the public and he encouraged them to keep the information coming in order to tackle the problem of drug dealing in our society”.
Edwin Stevenson said “the Police are to be commended, for their persistence in tackling the sale and distribution of illegal drugs. This seizure highlights the need for public co-operation with the police in order to rid our society of these types of drugs. Drugs ruin people's lives and the lives of their families. We all need to work together to stop drug dealing in our community."
This seizure comes at a time when drug dealing has been hitting the headlines locally with the recent death of a teenager. The local public are all too aware of the dangers of drug use and the need to apprehend the dealers and pushers of these drugs.
In the run up to Halloween, the DPP are also calling for safe use of fireworks and the need to buy these from proper, licensed premises. Fireworks which are sold through unlicensed premises are unlikely to meet quality and safety standards and can therefore cause serious injuries and maiming. Halloween can be a very frightening time for the elderly as fireworks are loud and they can feel threatened. Animals can also be very startled by fireworks.
Edwin Stevenson said “While no-one wants to stop people having fun and enjoying Halloween, parents need to take responsibility for safe use of fireworks and keep a close eye on what their children are doing in the run up to the holidays. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and happy Halloween”.
The Police are once again reminding the public to “hear it, see it, report it”. These are community issues and it takes the community together to tackle them.
For further information contact: Angela Martin, 028 777 60314.
15th October 2007
Inspirational Speaker at DPP Public Meeting
Limavady District Policing Partnership held its meeting in public on Thursday 11th of October 2007 in North West Regional College, Greystone Road Limavady. This public meeting was a themed meeting and was a joint event between Limavady DPP and the PSNI.
The main speaker was Retired American Air force Colonel, Mr. Edward Hubbard, who gave a presentation called “The price of Success”. This was a motivational talk focusing the power of the mind in overcoming problems. Colonel Hubbard began his presentation by informing everyone present that his aim is to help people to understand how to solve their problems. His theory is that perceptions rule the world and based on that we decide how to deal with the world. He told of how on 20 July 1966 during a mission in which his plane intercepted two missiles he had to jump out of the plane knowing he was going to land in enemy territory. He was captured at 5pm that day and spent the next 6 years and 7 months as a Prisoner of War in a small cell measuring three steps diagonally. For the first five months of his captivity he felt sorry for himself and then in December 1966 his attitude changed and he made a conscious decision that he was going to survive no matter what. He said he promised himself he would never have another bad day again and he never did.
During his speech, Colonel Hubbard gave an insight into their treatment as prisoners of war and the need to keep his mind and body active. He shared how the prisoners used to communicate with each other by tapping out a code on the cell wall and how by this method they learned poetry and committed lots of other information to memory. It really was an inspirational talk by a truly amazing person.
Alderman Jack Rankin, Chairman Limavady DPP welcomed everyone to the evening and commented “This event – Motivational Evening – came about as a result of discussions between the DPP Manager and P.S.N.I. and hopefully we all learned something from what our special speaker had to say. Col Hubbard is an amazing man who has been through a terrible ordeal and still has a positive attitude to life. We should all strive to mirror this attitude”
For further information contact: Angela Martin, 028 777 60314.
9th October 2007
Limavady DPP Expresses Sympathy to Family of Tragic Victim.
Limavady District Policing Partnership would like to express sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Miss Danielle Gibbons who died last weekend. The DPP were shocked and saddened at such an event as Alderman Jack Rankin Chairman of the DPP commented that “This is a very difficult time for the family of Miss Gibbons. This is a terrible tragedy for the family and an awful waste of a young life. We in the DPP are constantly trying to raise the profile of drugs awareness campaigns and fully endorse the work of the police in combating any type of drug dealing activity”
25 September 2007
Meeting in Public
Limavady District Policing Partnership will hold its next meeting in public on Thursday 11th of October 2007 at 7pm in North West Regional College, Greystone Road Limavady. This public meeting will be a themed meeting.
It will consist of a talk from a Retired American Air force Colonel, Mr. Edward Hubbard, who will give a presentation called “The price of Success”. This is a motivational talk and will appeal to all ages especially the youth sector of the Borough.
Limavady PSNI will also be in attendance and members of the public can submit written questions in advance of the meeting, or they can ask a member of the DPP to raise a question/issue on their behalf after the Presentation. There will also be an opportunity for questions to be raised by those attending.
All correspondence, requests for information or questions for submission to the police District Commander through the District Policing Partnership, should be sent to:
Post: FREEPOST Limavady DPP
Email: dpplimavady.gov.uk
Recording Facilities: 028 777 60314
Web: www.districtpolicing.com/limavady
for further information contact: Ailish McAtamney, 028 777 60314.
10th August 2007
Limavady DPP Expresses Sympathy to Family of Tragic Victim.
Limavady District Policing Partnership would like to express sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Mr James Craig who died at a tragic accident at an unmanned accommodation crossing at his farm at Carsehall near Limavady. The DPP were shocked and saddened at such an event as Alderman Jack Rankin Chairman of the DPP commented that “This is a very difficult time for the family of Mr Craig. He was a well respected member of the local farming community and will be missed by the locality in which he worked and lived. Hopefully the flooding tributes for Mr Craig will help them come to terms with the devastation of this loss” Mr Craig is survived by his wife Mary and his four children.
Date: 19th July 2007
Meeting in Public
Limavady District Policing Partnership will hold its next meeting in public on Wednesday 8th August 2007 in Limavady Borough Council Offices, commencing 16.00 hours. At the meeting, the Area Commander, Chief Inspector Stephen Cargin will present an overview of the crime picture within the district for the months of April – June 2007. Members of the DPP will raise questions/issues with the Area Commander about his report.
Members of the public can submit written questions in advance of the meeting, or they can ask a member of the DPP to raise a question/issue on their behalf. There will also be an opportunity for questions to be raised by those attending.
All correspondence, requests for information or questions for submission to the police Area Commander through the District Policing Partnership, should be sent to:
Post: FREEPOST Limavady DPP
Email: dpplimavady.gov.uk
Recording Facilities: 028 777 60314
Web: www.districtpolicing.com/limavady
For further information contact: Ailish McAtamney on 028 777 60314.
Date: 24th May 2007
Meeting in Public
Limavady District Policing Partnership will hold its next meeting in public on Wednesday 13th June in Limavady Borough Council Offices, commencing 16.00 hours. At the meeting, the Area Commander, Chief Inspector Stephen Cargin will present an overview of the crime picture for the year 2006-07 and members of the DPP will pose to the Commander about issues identified. The District Commander, Chief Superintendent Richard Russell will report on how he will resource the newly enlarged G District.
Members of the public can submit written questions in advance of the meeting, or they can ask a member of the DPP to raise a question/issue on their behalf. There will also be an opportunity for questions to be raised by those attending.
All correspondence, requests for information or questions for submission to the police District Commander through the District Policing Partnership, should be sent to:
Post: FREEPOST Limavady DPP
Email: dpplimavady.gov.uk
Recording Facilities: 028 777 60314
Web: www.districtpolicing.com/limavady
For further information contact: Ailish McAtamney, 028 777 60314.
Date: 18th April 2007
The Launch of the Local Policing Plan
At the launch of the local policing plan Tuesday 17th April 2007, Leslie Cubitt, Chair of Limavady District Policing Partnership said “the policing plan is a result of the local police working with the District Policing Partnership to ensure that the voice of the public has been heard and that their priorities have been incorporated in the plan.”
He went on to say “that the DPP had consulted widely and that all the key issues identified and prioritized have been incorporated into the local policing plan. These include road traffic management, drug and drinking offences, criminal damage, antisocial behaviour, violent crime, and domestic violence.
In conclusion, Leslie “encouraged everyone to read the plan and if their key issues were not included, to contact the DPP and to work with us to determine the priorities for next year. He further stated, “policing resources are limited and will continue to be reduced as the government implements further reductions in policing resources, there cannot be a police officer in every corner and it is therefore imperative that we all work together to tackle identified issues and to make our communities safer.
The local policing plan is available by request from the Police Station on 0845 600 8000 or can be downloaded from www.psni.police.uk
Date: 29th March 2007
Road Safety
Limavady Road Safety Committee in conjunction with Limavday District Policing Partnership and the local police organized a very successful poster competition for local primary schools. 13 schools participated in the competition with over 1000 entries.
The four themes were:
P1 - How to cross the road safely
P2 - 3 Cycle Safety
P4 - 5 Why must we wear our seat belts
P6 - 7 Speed – what are the dangers?
Leslie Cubitt, Chairman of Limavady District Policing Partnership accompanied Harry Rutherford, Road Safety Chairman out to Gortnaghey Primary School to present the prizes. The Chairman said “the standard of entries was very high, however the main message is that we want you all to be safe on the roads, whether it be on foot, bicycle or when travelling in a car”.
Harry Rutherford, Chairman of Limavady Road Safety Committee said “it has been a joy to work with so many schools and he looked forward to increased participation the forthcoming cycling proficiency competition”. He continued “any school interested in getting involved in the work of road safety should contact him on phone: 028 71810246”
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Photo: Gortnaghey Primary School with Headmistress Teresa Duffy, Leslie Cubitt Chair of Limavady District Policing Partnership and Harry Rutherford Chair of Limavady Road Safety Committee.
Date: 23rd March 2007
“Wats ur rush?”
The award winning 'It Could be You' Roadshow was played to over 900 students from schools in Limavady, Strabane and Derry schools in the Millennium Forum on Thursday 22nd 2007 in the morning and to students from Donegal in the afternoon as part of continuing cross border efforts to get drivers to take more care and responsibility on the roads.
The morning programme was supported by AXA Insurance and the three local District Policing Partnerships. The local District Policing Partnerships developed a range of promotional items branded with the strapeline “Wats ur rush?” a winning strapline by Alan Hook from a competition undertaken at a Limavady Cruise.
Recognising that many people aged under 25 are killed or injured on our roads, the Roadshow aims to positively influence those drivers who are about to start out on what will hopefully be a long and safe motoring career.
Inspector Stephen Haslett of the Road Policing Unit said “the key to reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries on the roads among the youth population lies in education.
"We are extremely pleased that schools from across Donegal and the North West are firmly on board with the road show concept. It is only through educating our young people about the dangers that motorists can face on the roads that we can to make a difference.
The Roadshow, which so far, as been seen by more than 25,000 teenagers across Northern Ireland, graphically depicts how a night out can end in tragedy and permanent disability.
The story is told by a police officer, a paramedic, a fire officer, an Accident and Emergency consultant, a representative of a victim support group and Philip Donaghy who was paralysed following a horrific collision. The narrative is interspersed with music, video clips and television and cinema advertisements.
Inspector Haslett added: "I have no doubt that those who attend the Roadshow will be shocked, perhaps even horrified, by what they see. We make no apology for that.
"We believe that showing realistically what happens on our roads has a strong impact on the students who attend. I hope that after seeing the Roadshow they realise that they are not indestructible; that they are more vulnerable on the roads and that they must respect the roads and other users."
"Tim Scott, General Manager of AXA Insurance and official sponsors of the Roadsafe Roadshow series, commented: "As one of the largest insurance groups in Europe we deal with hundreds of claims every week as a result of traffic collisions. The effects are well documented - too many people are being killed on our roads or are being injured for life. Young people are particularly over-represented. They must begin to acknowledge that road accidents don't just happen.
"AXA Insurance has a strong commitment to road safety not only through its sponsorship of the Roadsafe Roadshows, which we have backed from the beginning, but through our support of a series of hard hitting television advertisements which highlight the dangers of irresponsible driving. We hope that young people will learn from this event, think twice about the seriousness
Rosemary Savage, Vice Chair of Limavady District Policing Partnership said after watching the Roadshow “you could off heard a pin drop and that is very unusual when you have 1000 young people together, the format used is very effective in making anyone who sees it consider the consequences of being involved in a fatal road accident. “
Dylan Harte from North Coast Cruisers said “it had a very hard hitting storyline which revolved around a young driver who was into cars just in the same way we all are, he never thought he would crash his car until one night he was impressing his girlfriend by speeding on country roads, he lost control of his car and rolled into the base of a tree. Overall this event really made me think, and I hope it got through to the others who were in attendance as well as it did with me, As together we can cut deaths on our roads! “
Photos L – R
Connor Thornton, Northern Ireland Cruisers, Dylan Harte North Coast Cruisers, Rosemary Savage Vice Chair of Limavady District Policing Partnership, Alan Hook North Coast Cruisers , Inspector Stephen Haslett, Roads Policing.
Constable John Stanbridge, Roads Policing Education Officer, Connor Thornton Northern Ireland Cruisers, Rosemary Savage Vice Chair Limavady District Policing Partnership, Harry Rutherford Limavady Road Safety Committee, Sergeant Sammy Campbell Roads Policing.
Nathan Lindsay, Limavady Further Education College
Date: 12th March 2007
We all carry that responsibility!
Edwin Stevenson, Member of Limavady District Policing Partnership said “results from the extensive household survey conducted across Northern Ireland last summer, reflects that Limavady residents still see the issues of drug dealing, drug use and underage drinking as the top issues within the Borough.
“The Police have been working diligently over recent years to tackle this scourge within our society. Drug dealers are skilled at their jobs and many dealers do not handle the drugs themselves but instead use a sophisticated system of drug handlers and runners, including children to provide them with cover. For fear of reprisal and retribution, witnesses of drug dealing are often very reluctant to come forward with information and prepared to go to court with their evidence. It can therefore be very difficult for the Police to obtain sufficient evidence to bring people before the courts is difficult. On this occasion, as a result of a long investigation, they were successful. It is disappointing to learn that those involved received bail, and while stringent bail conditions have been given, it is possible that the perpetrators are able to continue destroying lives by selling drugs.
The drugs world is murky and corrupts minds and lives. We need to ensure that no other young people are involved in drug trade. We all need to give any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem to the Police. We need to guarantee that drug dealers and runners are not free to run out streets. We all need to make our streets safer for our children to grow up in. We ALL carry that responsibility. The Police have given the DPP an assurance that they will act on all information and while results may not be evident overnight, this long investigation demonstrates their commitment to fighting the battle of drug dealing within the Borough”.
Limavady Police can be contacted on 0845 600 8000 or information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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Photo:
Inspector Tony Callaghan and Edwin Stevenson, DPP member looking at part of the haul of recovered items in association with the operation colluded on Friday 9th March 2007.
DATE: 8th MARCH 2007
LATEST CRIME FIGURES
FRAUD AND FORGERY incidences have almost doubled during the last nine months of 2006, the latest police figures have indicated.
The statistics, which cover the period from April to December, show there were 75 incidences of fraud and forgery as opposed to 40 during the equivalent period in 2005, an increase of 87 per cent. Some of this increase is accounted by seizures in recent months of counterfeit goods primarily in the Greysteel area.
Other categories of crime also showed significant increases, with those described as criminal damage rising by 14 per cent from 205 to 692.
Meanwhile, the number of persons arrested for drug related offences, increased from 31 to 42, and 32 of those were charged for drug related offences.
Another substantial increase was found in the category of sexual offences which jumped by almost 28 per cent, from 25 in 2005 to 32 the following year.
Violent crimes also went up, with the total of 590 recorded representing an increase of 5.4 per cent. However, notable deceases were recorded in crimes such as theft from motor vehicles – which fell by 11 per cent – and vehicle tampering, which was cut by 45 per cent.
Anti-social behaviour rates continue to give cause for concern, while they showed a 525 per cent increase during the first six months, they have fallen to 426 per cent.
The total crime rate in Limavady increased by 4 per cent, a figure which was above the overall average of an overall decrease of 0.2 per cent for the whole of the North.
Clearance rates for Limavady are at 26 per cent, above both the Service figure of 21 per cent and Rural region at 23 per cent.
Rosemary Savage, Vice Chair of Limavady District Policing partnership described the increasing crime trend at worrying and said “there has been an increase in all categories of crime with the exception of theft and ‘other notifiable offences’ with a further increase in violent crime and criminal damage - two of the top issues within the District and which account for 64.3% of crime. If you add theft the top three categories accounts for over 81% of all crime. Any impact on these categories will result in an impact on the total crime picture. While anti-social behaviour has increased dramatically, it must be remembered that often the police receive a number of phone calls about one incident which can impact upon the figures. However, that is not an excuse and we all have a duty to ensure we are responsible for the actions of ourselves and our children. The poster campaign entitled ‘do you know where your kids are’ has created considerable attention.
“The Halloween period experienced high levels of anti-social behaviour, criminal damage, arson with rubbish being set alight, fraud and forgery and there is a need to start now and look at how the Halloween period is managed and not just from a policing perspective, but with a multi-agency approach.
“Some of the crimes are preventable and while the public expect the police to bring to justice those who are involved in committing crime, the public must also be responsible for taking care of their property, possessions and their person. “The DPP will continue to work with the police, so that policing resources are focused on issues that require attention and will also work with the public so that they are aware of the local issues and how they can work to make the Borough safer”.
Date: 6th March 2007
DPP Survey
From May to July 2006, a postal questionnaire was undertaken on behalf of all the District Policing Partnerships in Northern Ireland. Questionnaires were sent to one in every ten households and sought to obtain information on people’s perceptions relating to the local DPP.
Only three other areas (Ballymoney, Larne and Moyle) had a higher knowledge of their DPP.
More people heard about Limavady DPP through Public Notices, posters/leaflets, word of mouth than any other area.
Only two other areas had a higher knowledge of their DPP through reading stories in local newspapers (Strabane and Dungannon & South Tyrone)
Only two other areas thought their DPP were doing a better job (Omagh and Strabane)
Only one other area had a higher confidence level that their DPP is helping to address local policing problems (Strabane)
In addition, Limavady DPP has the highest website hits of any DPP in Northern Ireland.
Further information relating to Limavady District Policing Partnership is available at www.districtpolicing.com/limavady
Representative of the DPP are available to meet with local groups. If you want to make the Borough safer or contribute to shaping local policing contact the DPP Manager on 028 777 60314.
21st FEBRUARY 2007
North West Derry Group - Ulster Farmers Union Winter Meeting
The North West Derry Group of the Ulster Farmers Union held the last of its Winter Meetings at the Radisson on Tuesday 20th February 2007. The room was packed to capacity with over 100 people in attendance, reflecting the interest in the subjects of ‘taxation and the farmer’ and ‘the use of agricultural vehicles on the road.’ The meeting was sponsored by Limavady District Policing Partnership and Moore Stephen Chartered Accountants.
The speakers invited were William Henry and William Martin, from Moore Stephens Chartered Accountants and Inspector Stephen Haslett and Clive Spence, PSNI.
William Martin spoke on a number of issues such as Capital Allowances (currently 50% which might reduce at the next budget), Farm Maintenance, Single Farm Payments and Entitlements.
William Henry addressed the issues of selling building sites where the amount of tax payable can vary enormously, Milk Quotas, Inheritance Tax and finally, Conacre issues. William warned that currently the Inland Revenue is challenging the definition of farming when land is let in Conacre and whether or not the owner maintains the property. He continued “that Agricultural Property Relief which is currently 100% for farmers and this relief could be lost if the property was to be defined as non-agricultural.”
Inspector Stephen Haslett, PSNI Roads Policing spoke on the topic of ‘agricultural vehicles on the road’. Inspector Haslett started by quoting some chilling facts, such as 40,000 died each year throughout Europe as a result of road accidents. Last year, in Northern Ireland 125 people died on our roads. Young drivers between the ages of 17 - 24 are responsible for 70% of fatal collisions with speed being the main cause of the majority of accidents. As a result, Roads Policing are very pro-active in working with young drivers in order to influence their driving behaviour.
The issues highlighted of particular interest to farmers were Cattle on the Road, Mud on the Road and also Tractors and Dump Trailers and the law pertaining to them.
Inspector Haslett did highlight that tractors must have specific insurance whilst undertaking site work or other non-agricultural operations and that currently PSNI are enforcing this legislation. He further highlighted fact that from the 1st January 1997, all drivers who have passed a test have limitations as to the weight of trailers they can tow (750 kgs max) and an additional driving test is necessary to tow at weights greater than 750 kgs.
The subject of Farm Theft was also discussed and whilst not highly prevalent in the Limavady area farmers were urged to be vigilant, lock up machinery and tools securely and consider additional security measures such as camera and lighting.
Rosemary Savage, Vice Chair of Limavady District Policing Partnership outlined the roles and responsibilities of the District Policing Partnership and encouraged those present to complete the questionnaire in their packs outlining that information is used in ongoing discussion with the police.
Questions were wide-ranging and plentiful with the majority addressed to Inspector Haslett and Inspector Spence.
The vote of thanks was proposed by John McCollum and seconded by Robert Moore. The Group Chairman Noel Cochrane brought the meeting to an close inviting everyone to remain for further informal discussion over a cuppa.
Photos: Taken by David Larmour.
L – R. Back row. Nigel McLaughlin, Declan Doherty and Rosemary Savage – Limavady District Policing Partnership Members. William Henry and William Moore, Moore Stephens Chartered Accountants.
L – R. Front row. Raymond Haslett Secretary UFU, Noel Cochrane Chairman UFU, Inspector Stephen Haslett Roads Policing, Inspector Clive Spence Limavady Police.
12th FEBRUARY 2007
Terrydremond Women's Institute
Terrydremond Women’s Institute invited representatives of Limavady District Policing Partnership to meet with the group in February 2007.
Rosemary Savage Vice Chair, Jack Rankin, DPP Member along with Linda McKee DPP Manager met with the ladies and used a powerpoint presentation to provide an overview of the work, which included some of the challenges and successes faced since the DPP was established in 2003. The DPP also used the opportunity to hear their local policing issues and concerns.
Women’s Institute members also availed of the opportunity to receive both property marking pens and personal alarms.
Annie McCabe won first prize in a household hints competition, with Lisa Whiteside and May Scott in the runner-up positions.
Annie’s household hints were:
FIRST: Annie McCabe
Don’t let strangers into your home
Always ask for identification every time
Smoke alarms should be tested every week to make sure they are functioning
Floors should be free of rugs that would be inclined to trip
Anyone who has a door chain should use it all times
Any other group interested to learn more about the work of the DPP or to have an opportunity to raise local concerns, should contact the DPP Office on 028 777 60314. Email: dpplimavady.gov.uk
Group photo including Rosemary Savage, Vice Chair of Limavady DPP and Jack Rankin, Councillor and DPP member
Winners of competition: Annie McCabe, Lisa Whiteside, May Scott with Rosemary Savage and Jack Rankin.
For further information contact: Linda R McKee, 028 777 60314.
DATE: 8th FEBRUARY 2007
Seizure of fireworks
In addition to the attached press release issued by PSNI 08/02/07.
Fireworks seized Ballymoney
Police have seized around £2,000 worth of illegal fireworks in Ballymoney.
The discovery was made during follow-up searches after police stopped a car at Coolagh Road, Greysteel, Limavady, on Wednesday afternoon (7th).
One man was arrested for suspected counterfeit goods and motoring offences and later released pending further enquiries.
Rosemary Savage, Vice Chair of Limavady District Policing Partnership said “this latest haul of counterfeit goods and illegal fireworks is down to good police work. The Officers involved are to be commended for their dedication and attention to detail. It is concerning to learn that these fireworks were stored beside flammable liquids and had the potential to kill and maim those in their immediate vacancy if they had exploded”
Date: 1st February 2007
‘Do u kno wer ur kids r?’
Police officers in Limavady have joined forces with the local District Policing Partnership to further develop and strengthen their policy for tackling anti-social behaviour in the Borough.
Responding to the concerns of the community a number of steps are already in motion to address this problem including an eye-catching poster campaign asking ‘Do you know where your children are?’. This poster will be displayed on Main Street and is designed to make parents think about what their children are up to when not in the home.
Meanwhile officers will continue to maintain regular high visibility patrols of areas where large numbers of youths are congregating and engaging in anti-social behaviour.
Persistent offenders will be sent warning letters from the District Command Unit’s Youth Diversion Officer. This in turn can lead to young people voluntarily signing up to an ‘Anti-social Behaviour Contract’ (ABC), or in more serious cases an application will be made to the Magistrate’s Court for an ‘Anti-social Behaviour Order’ (ASBO).
A number of ABC’s have already been signed and this has led to a decrease in the destructive behaviour carried out by these individuals. Several youths involved in offensive actions have already benefited from restorative interventions through the Youth Diversion Scheme, or have ultimately faced the consequences in court.
In an effort to address the dangerous and irresponsible behaviour of youths throwing stones at passing motorists, the Community Police Team posted leaflets to parents in the area and stepped up high visibility patrols. A marked decrease in this behaviour was noted in the following weeks and months.
However, police alone cannot take sole responsibility for tackling this problem that affects all members of the community. Local officers are continuously liaising with others agencies such as the DPP, N.I. Housing Executive, Housing and Community Associations, the Youth Justice Agency, Social Services, and Limavady Borough Council in a bid to utilise the skills and resources of a wide spectrum of agencies and disciplines.
While police will continue to do their part to address the problem of Anti-social Behaviour and apply for ASBO’s where necessary, everyone can play an active part in helping to eliminate such behaviour. This can begin with parents and family members knowing exactly what their children are doing when away from their own homes.
Rosemary Savage, Vice Chair of Limavady DPP said at the launch of the poster campaign, “Antisocial behaviour has always been one of the top issues on Limavady DPP public consultations and the DPP has urged the police to prioritise this problem. However, the DPP realizes that antisocial behaviour is a community issue and that the police acting alone cannot resolve the problem.
“Mobile phones can lend a false sense of security to parents, who may possibly permit their children to stray further or to stay out later because they feel that can contact them at any time via their mobile. I would appeal to every parent to also make certain they know exactly where their children are, what they are up to and what company they are keeping. It is the duty of each parent to protect their children and that includes protecting them from being led astray and getting into trouble.
“Make sure the only ABCs your children bring home are those they learn at school - not Antisocial Behaviour Contracts.“
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Photos: Rosemary Savage Vice Chair of Limavady DPP. Paul Robinson Police Youth Diversion Officer, John Donaghy Maxol Petrol Station, Main Street LIMAVADY.
Date: 18th January 2007
Do you need to know more about the road and use of agricultural vehicles? or taxation and the farmer?
The Ulster Farmers Union (North West Derry Group) will hold its Annual Meeting on Tuesday 20th February 2007 in the Radisson Roe Hotel, commencing 8.00 pm.
Key note speakers will be Inspector Stephen Haslett, Roads Policing on “The use of agricultural vehicles on the road” and William Henry and William Martin, Chartered Accountants on the current tax position for the farmer. There will be an opportunity for discussion in the form of a question and answer session.
The event is jointed supported by Limavady District Policing Partnership and Moore Stephens.
The meeting is open to the public and advance registration is not required. For further information contact: Ulster Farmers Union, 028 777 62996.
Photo: L-R Raymond Haslett Group Secretary Ulster Farmers Union, Noel Cochrane Group Chairman UFU and Leslie Cubitt Chairman of Limavady District Policing Partnership.
Date: 16th January 2007
Drug Seizure
Issued after drugs seizure of suspected amphetamine powder found during a search by police at a vehicle checkpoint outside Dungiven on January 15th.
Leslie Cubitt, Chairman of Limavady District Policing Partnership said “this is only the 15th January and already the Police have taken a considerable quantity of drugs of the streets. These drugs were designed to destroy lives and to put people into addition and debt.
“The police are to be commended yet again for their proactive approach. This is a problem that we all need to deal with together, the Police deal with the enforcement of relevant drug laws and we need to assist them in that task. However, each of us needs to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a friend of family member using drugs and know where to obtain professional help. The most commonly abused drug is alcohol”.
The DPP will continue to work with the Police and those agencies and organisations who are involved in drug education, prevention, counselling, treatment and enforcement.
Copies of the ‘know the score … on drugs and alcohol’ are available upon request from the DPP Manager on 028 777 60314.
Date: 9th January 2007
Youth Conference Service
At a recent meeting of Limavady District Policing Partnership, Mary Jo McAllister, Assistant Director Youth Conference Service in association with colleagues, Eileen Kerrigan and Donna O’Shea-Murie, Youth Conference Co-ordinators outlined the role of the Youth Conference Service.
The Youth Conference Service is based in the Justice (NI) Act 2002 and will eventually be responsible for working with young people under the age of 18 who has been referred through either the courts or the Public Prosecution Service. An initial pilot was carried out in Belfast and Omagh and the service is now being rolled out, with a regional office based in Londonderry serving the North West.
Leslie Cubitt, Chairman said “you have clearly demonstrated tonight, the benefits of using conferencing to make a young offender to understand and make amends to their victims and to take steps to stop offending. While it is resource intensive, if it stops one young person going down a route of repeat offending it will be worth it”.
At the meeting, members of the District Policing Partnership indicated their willingness to participate in the process and to attend youth conferences to assist the young offender to understand the harm caused as a result of the offence.
Photo L-R Mary Jo McAllister Assistant Director, Donna O’Shea-Murie Youth Co-ordinator, Rosemary Savage Vice-Chair of DPP, Maureen Hudson Member of DPP, and Eileen Kerrigan Youth Co-ordinator.
