Department of Finance

11/06/2026

10/06/2026

Finance Minister John O'Dowd MLA chaired the North-South Ministerial Council Special EU Programmes Body - SEUPB Sectoral meeting in Belfast today.

Minister O’Dowd highlighted the positive impact that the PEACE PLUS programme is having in promoting and embedding peace and reconciliation across the island and heard about the plans for a future programme.

10/06/2026

Have you applied for Residential Homes Rate Relief? If your property is classed as a nursing or residential home and you meet the eligibility criteria, you could have your rates reduced by 100%. Check for more info and apply here: www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/residential-homes-rate-relief

10/06/2026

First Minister Michelle O’Neill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly have spoken with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer following last night’s scenes of disorder.

They were clear that what was witnessed on the streets here last night is deeply damaging to communities and puts innocent lives at risk.

The First Minister and deputy First Minister reaffirmed with him their collective commitment to protecting communities, upholding the rule of law, and working together to keep people safe.

They continue to appeal for calm.

05/06/2026

Finance Minister John O'Dowd MLA has met with Ema Cubitt Independent Autism Reviewer NI to discuss the findings of her first Annual Report which highlights both the progress made and the ongoing challenges faced by people with autism.

As one of the largest employers, the Civil Service remains committed to promoting disability inclusion, supporting both employment opportunities and career development for disabled people.

05/06/2026

🏠Reminder: Rate reliefs & supports available for eligible households:

🔹 Rate Rebate scheme for those getting Universal Credit
🔹Lone Pensioner Allowance
🔹Disabled Person’s Allowance

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/guide-rates/help-paying-your-rates

03/06/2026

📢Sign up to Rates Online and manage your account!

Users can:

🔹Choose to receive bills electronically
🔹Update additional property or ratepayer details
🔹Set up a direct debit
🔹Make a card payment
🔹Log on as a third party (benefitting organisations)
🔹Let LPS know of difficulties paying rates
🔹Manage Landlord accounts

To sign up now or manage your account, please visit ➡️ https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/sign-or-set-rates-online

01/06/2026

The rating of vacant business property is in place to encourage properties to be brought back into use. Find out more here: https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/non-domestic-vacant-rating

29/05/2026

Ratepayers! Are you signed up to the Rates Online portal? Rates Online is an online service that allows ratepayers to securely view and manage their rate accounts.

Sign up now ➡️ https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/access-rates-online

29/05/2026

Are you entitled to Non-Domestic Vacant Rating exclusion? 👉🏻 https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/non-domestic-vacant-rating #:~:text=The%20exclusions%20are%3A,a%20view%20to%20purchasing%20it