Economy Minister outlines next steps for Credit Unions
A Bill to modernise and reform the credit union sector is to be brought forward, Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has announced.
The plans are outlined in a ‘Credit Union (Modernisation and Reform) Next Steps’ document, which has today been published following a public consultation on proposed changes for the credit union sector, which has almost 600,000 members here.
The Minister said:“Credit unions provide a vital financial service for their members. They foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual support and are at the heart of many local communities.
“As we look to the future, it is essential that credit unions continue to evolve in response to changing member needs and community expectations.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald is pictured with Brendan Jenkins ILCU President and Martin Fisher, Head of NI ILCU.
“Following public consultation, these proposed next steps will modernise the credit union legislative and policy framework and expand the role that credit unions play within the economy.”
Further reform will be identified and delivered through secondary legislation and the establishment of a permanent Credit Union Advisory Group, consisting of sector representatives and subject matter experts.
Martin Fisher, Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) said: “The Irish League of Credit Unions welcome the publication of the ‘Next Steps’ paper and the continued commitment to strengthening and modernising the credit union movement in Northern Ireland.
“Credit unions play a vital role in communities across the island, and this marks an important step towards ensuring the legislative and regulatory framework within the North supports sustainable growth, innovation, and greater financial inclusion.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Minister and officials as the proposals are progressed.”
William McKeown, Ulster Federation of Credit Unions (UFCU) added: “The UFCU welcomes and supports the efforts being made to modernise Credit Union legislation in Northern Ireland.
“The sector plays an important and developing role in supporting the lives of many financially right across the community.”
Lecale CCE To Host Downpatrtick heats of Fleadh Ceoil an Dúin running from 15-21st June 2026
A significant footfall of Fleadh supporters and players is set to descend on Downpatrick for the 15-21st June.
The Fleadh is a world-wide Irish music competition always hotly contested by keen musicians of all ages.
For the first time the County Down heat will take place in Downpatrick and will based at the SERC campus and other venues around the town. (see programme for full details).
Speaking at the last music session following a combined session, Mark Higgins said that “this is a momentous occasion for our group and for Downpatrick.
“We have been working with local businesses and we have created a session trail around Downpatrick for music followers and we welcome musicians and their families to Downpatrick.
“The Fleadh is a family type festival and will draw a large crowd to the town. We have around 50 volunteers to help us out with the organising.
***
Council Supports Summer of Fleadhs Across Newry Mourne and Down
Newry Mourne and Down District Council is encouraging residents and visitors to experience a vibrant summer of traditional Irish music, culture and community spirit as three major Fleadhs take place across the County Down in the coming months.
The Council has provided funding support towards the events as part of its ongoing commitment to cultural development, tourism growth and supporting local communities.
The summer programme begins with the Armagh County Fleadh in Crossmaglen from 25–31 May, marking a particularly significant occasion as the Fleadh returns to the town for the first time in more than 50 years.
The event is expected to bring a major celebration of music, dancing, singing and Irish culture to the heart of South Armagh, with a packed programme of competitions, sessions, concerts and community events planned throughout the week.
The celebrations continue with the Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin (Down Fleadh) in Downpatrick from 15–21 June, offering another opportunity to showcase the district’s rich musical traditions in the historic home of St Patrick.
The County Town of Down, Downpatrick, is in for some foot-tapping events this coming June. Mark Higgins, pictured with members of the Lecale CCÉ launches the Down Fleadh to take place in Downpatrick from the 15-21st June 2026.
Musicians, performers and visitors from across the island are expected to gather in the town for a week-long programme celebrating traditional Irish arts and culture.
The Ulster Fleadh takes place in Warrenpoint from 19–26 July, bringing one of the province’s largest traditional music festivals to the scenic coastal town. Last year’s event attracted around 30,000 visitors, with organisers hoping to grow this year’s visitor numbers to 40,000.
With its vibrant hospitality sector, waterfront setting and strong musical tradition, Warrenpoint is expected to provide a fitting backdrop for what promises to be a major regional cultural celebration.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “The Council is delighted to support this exciting programme of Fleadhs taking place across the district throughout the summer months, celebrating the enduring strength of traditional Irish music, song, dance and culture within our communities.
“These events are an important opportunity not only to showcase our rich cultural heritage, but also to bring people together through music, community participation and shared experiences.
The County Diown Fleagh is being held in Downpatrick for the first time in the County Town of Down. It runs from 15-21st June 2026.
“Fleadhs continue to play a vital role in encouraging young musicians and performers, supporting local cultural organisations and ensuring these traditions are preserved and celebrated for future generations.”
The Council Chairperson said the programme of summer events will create a vibrant atmosphere across towns and villages throughout the district, attracting competitors, performers and visitors from across Ireland and beyond, with the increased footfall providing a significant boost for local businesses, hospitality providers and the wider tourism sector, while also highlighting Newry Mourne and Down as a welcoming and culturally vibrant destination.
Cllr Campbell added: “With the All-Ireland Fleadh taking place in Belfast this year, there is also a fantastic opportunity for visitors to explore the wider region and experience everything our district has to offer.
“From our coastline and mountains to our unique heritage, hospitality and busy calendar of festivals and events throughout the summer season, there is a lot to chose from.”
This summer’s programme also comes as excitement continues to build ahead of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast, one of the largest celebrations of Irish music and culture in the world.
Hosting of the All-Ireland Fleadh on the island’s eastern corridor presents a major opportunity for Newry Mourne and Down to welcome domestic and international visitors exploring the wider region during their stay.
Ideally located between Belfast and Dublin, the district offers excellent accessibility through direct rail services on the Belfast–Dublin line, extensive bus connections and strong road links, making it an attractive base for visitors attending Fleadh events across the region.
Visitors staying in Newry Mourne and Down can enjoy a wide range of accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, self-catering properties and coastal retreats, experiencing the renowned Mourne Gullion Strangford offering outdoor adventures, food experiences and a packed calendar of festivals and events throughout the summer season.
Tourism NI urges industry – let’s make this summer: `Un-Fleadhgettable’
Tourism Northern Ireland is encouraging tourism businesses to rise to the occasion this Summer to help make Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann a “key moment for tourism”.
Over 700,000 people are expected to descend on Belfast for the world’s largest annual festival of Irish music, song, dance, and competitions, which will be hosted by Belfast City Council between August 2 -9.
It is estimated that the Fleadh, which will also return to Belfast – Ireland’s only UNESCO City of Music – in 2027 will generate millions of pounds for the local economy with the benefits set to be felt across the region.
:With a focus on inspiring visitors to turn their Fleadh trip into a `Giant Adventure’ by extending their stay to explore beyond Belfast, Tourism NI has this week launched a comprehensive marketing campaign aimed at maximising the opportunities hosting the event presents.
(l-r) Aleine Donnelly, a harpist and member of Ards CCÉ and Carmel Scott, Head of Marketing at Tourism NI, help launch Tourism NI’s Fleadh marketing campaign.
The campaign will include TV advertising across RTÉ and TG4, a special supplement in The Irish Independent targeting Republic of Ireland visitors, radio activity aligned with the regional Fleadhs, PR activity across Northern Ireland and RoI, email marketing and digital and social content.
The activity, which will run alongside Tourism NI’s Summer marketing campaign, will focus on what there is to explore in Northern Ireland beyond Belfast and beyond the music – from world-class visitor experiences and breathtaking landscapes to stunning coastlines and a vibrant food and drink scene worth savouring.
On completion, it is estimated that the campaign will have resulted in over 13 million advertising impacts, 12 million digital impressions and a PR reach of 200,000.
Tourism NI will also be hosting a`Get Ready for the Fleadh: Lunch & Learn Webinar’ on June 9th.
The webinar is designed to help tourism and hospitality businesses prepare for the opportunities surrounding the Fleadh and maximise visitor engagement across Northern Ireland.
Tourism NI has also today issued a call out to the industry inviting them to share their Fleadh-related special offers including promotions, events, tailored tours and experiences, and special family-focused packages.
will feature industry-led offers and promotions designed to incentivise visitors coming to the Fleadh to return to Northern Ireland later this year and in 2027.
During this year’s Fleadh, a special QR code will be widely distributed to drive traffic to this hub to capture visitor interest for future travel.
Carmel Scott, Head of Marketing at Tourism NI, said: “The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann represents a significant opportunity to drive demand by encouraging visitors to extend their stay and explore Northern Ireland’s world-class attractions and experiences – alongside the giant welcome we are known for.
“Our programme of marketing activity is designed to promote the Fleadh, encourage visitors to stay longer, discover more of Northern Ireland and inspire a return visit.
“We would strongly encourage industry partners to get involved by submitting their events and promotions, helping us showcase an `Unfleadhgettable’ giant adventure in Northern Ireland.”
UK’s protective legislation continues to fail birds of prey in Northern Ireland as widespread illegal killing continues
Although all birds of prey have been protected under UK laws for over 60 years, the RSPB’s latest report, Patterns of Persecution, reveals that these protected species are being illegally targeted and killed across the UK, including in Northern Ireland.
Between 2015 and 2024, 33 confirmed incidents were recorded across Northern Ireland involving many reintroduced and recovering species of conservation concern, such as White-tailed Eagles, and Red Kites.
During this ten-year period, Buzzards were the hardest hit, with 17 confirmed incidents recorded in Northern Ireland, followed by Peregrines (16 confirmed incidents) and Red Kites (six confirmed incidents).
However, there has not been a single successful prosecution for crimes against birds of prey in Northern Ireland in the last 15years.
The recorded incidents likely represent only the tip of the iceberg. Bird of prey persecution crimes predominantly take place in remote and inaccessible areas, meaning not all cases are detected, and limited public access in some areas means that witnesses are few and far between.
Buzzards are significantly affected by illegal killing.
Ian Thomson, RSPB’s Investigations Manager said: “It is concerning that illegal poisoning, often involving highly toxic banned chemicals, remains the most common method used against birds of prey in Northern Ireland, accounting for more than half of detected incidents.
“This not only kills protected wildlife, but also poses risks to pets, livestock and people.
“We therefore welcome DAERA’s recent steps in establishing a working group to strengthen legislation around the possession of these chemicals.”
Ian added: “That said, any legislation is only as effective as its enforcement, and it is extremely worrying that no prosecutions have followed the confirmed incidents in our report, or indeed previous bird of prey crimes in Northern Ireland.
“In other parts of the UK, partner organisations are routinely invited to work alongside police to provide expertise that can help identify and gather evidence and support successful outcomes.
A Golden eagle at its nest. They have been persecuted over the years.
“Making full use of this expert resource, through the likes of the Partnership for Action against Wildlife Crime Northern Ireland (PAWNI) will only strengthen efforts to address raptor persecution in Northern Ireland, ensuring future opportunities to identify and hold perpetrators accountable are not missed.”
For decades, the RSPB has investigated bird of prey persecution by detecting and reporting incidents and supporting police investigations across the UK.
In recent years, a number of successful convictions relating to bird of prey persecution have taken place, with evidence gathered by the RSPB Investigations team proving vital in bringing these individuals to justice.
To find out more about the team and the work they do visit:
Many bird of prey persecution cases that lead to a successful conviction are reported by members of the public. If you witness suspicious activity involving a bird of prey, reporting it quickly can make a huge difference.
Notify the police by calling 101 and submit a report to the RSPB by visitingYour support makes this vital work possible.
Newcastle RNLI comes to the aid of two people after 8.5m boat breaks down
Newcastle RNLI came to the aid of two people yesterday (Tuesday 26th May 2026) after their 8.5m Merry Fisher boat broke down and began to drift towards a shipping channel.
The volunteer lifeboat crew were requested by Belfast Coastguard to launch their inshore Atlantic 85 class lifeboat at 2.49pm and assess the situation where the boat had experienced mechanical failure and was adrift 8 nautical miles south of St John’s Point.
The lifeboat helmed by Shane Rice and with navigator Niall McMurray and crew members Danni Curley and Trez Dennison onboard, launched immediately and made its way to the scene.
Newcastle lifeboat assists two people when their engine failed as they could have drifted into shipping lanes.
On arrival, the crew observed that the two onboard who were both wearing lifejackets, were safe and well.
However, but as the vessel was drifting towards a shipping channel and posing a potential navigational risk, it was decided that the safest course of action was to establish a tow and bring the vessel and its occupants to the nearest safe harbour at Ardglass Marina where it was safely berthed an hour later with the assistance of Kilkeel Coastguard.
Speaking following the call out, Newcastle RNLI Helm Shane Rice said: ‘As we continue to enjoy some hot weather, we encourage anyone planning a trip on the water to go prepared.
“Always wear a lifejacket or suitable personal flotation device, always carry a means of communication such as a fully charged mobile phone and always let someone know where you are going and when you are due back. Should you get into difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
“‘If you end up in the water unexpectedly, Float to Live.
“Stay calm and fight any instinct to panic or thrash around. Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged.
“Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and feet to help you stay afloat. It’s fine if your legs sink, we all float differently. Once you’ve regained control of your breathing, call for help or raise your hand or swim to safety if you are able.’
The 2026 golf season has already delivered dramatic finishes, shifting odds, and growing excitement ahead of the remaining major championships. With bettors across the United States closely following form trends and course history, several elite players have emerged as the most heavily backed names in the market.
From proven major champions to rising stars, wagering activity continues to reflect confidence in players capable of handling golf’s toughest stages. Recent performances on the PGA Tour have strengthened opinions surrounding the leading contenders, especially as sportsbooks adjust prices ahead of the summer stretch.
As anticipation builds, four golfers continue to generate the strongest betting interest among fans and analysts alike.
Scottie Scheffler Remains the Benchmark
Scottie Scheffler continues to dominate betting conversations entering the remaining majors in 2026. The world number one has consistently been installed as the favorite at sportsbooks, largely because of his elite ball-striking and remarkable consistency from tee to green.
Bettors have remained confident in Scheffler even when his outright odds offer limited value compared to the rest of the field. Instead, many have targeted placement markets such as top-5 and top-10 finishes, where his consistent performances make him one of the safest options available. His runner-up finish at the 2026 Masters reinforced that confidence after a bogey-free weekend nearly produced another Green Jacket.
The expanding range of betting markets available this year has also boosted interest surrounding Scheffler. Many golf fans exploring FanDuel golf Major Specials have focused on Scheffler-related props related to finishing position, round scoring, and head-to-head matchups. With another major season underway, he remains the standard against which every contender is measured.
Rory McIlroy Carrying Momentum Into the Summer
Rory McIlroy has entered the heart of the 2026 major season with strong momentum and renewed betting support across the market.
Following another impressive campaign, bettors continue backing the Northern Irish star as one of the most reliable contenders in elite tournaments. His successful defense of the Masters title earlier this year only strengthened the belief that he can continue challenging for golf’s biggest championships.
McIlroy’s popularity among bettors has also been tied to his consistent form dating back to 2025. Strong finishes during the spring schedule, combined with positive ball-striking numbers and improved scoring consistency, have kept him near the top of betting boards throughout the season.
His reputation for thriving on links-style courses has made him especially popular ahead of the 2026 Open Championship, where many believe his experience and shot-making creativity provide a major advantage.
The market has responded accordingly. Across major sportsbooks, McIlroy has remained one of the leading outright choices behind Scheffler, reflecting sustained confidence in his form and big-event pedigree. His proven ability to contend under pressure is a major reason bettors continue to back him.
After capturing consecutive Masters victories in 2025 and 2026, McIlroy enters the remainder of the major calendar carrying momentum that few players in the world can currently match.
Xander Schauffele Continues to Attract Consistent Support
Xander Schauffele has quietly become one of the most dependable names in major championship betting.
While he may not always enter tournaments as the outright favorite, his track record of consistently appearing near the top of leaderboards has made him extremely popular in placement markets throughout 2026. Bettors continue gravitating toward Schauffele in the top-5 and top-10 categories because of his remarkably steady performances on golf’s biggest stages.
Golf narratives point out that his strong play at Augusta earlier this year reinforced that reputation. Schauffele finished inside the top ten at the 2026 Masters after another composed weekend performance, adding to an already impressive resume in major championships. He also showed excellent form during The Players Championship, where his accuracy off the tee and controlled approach play helped him remain near contention.
Many analysts believe Schauffele is edging closer to another signature victory because of how complete his game currently looks. Unlike players who rely heavily on putting streaks or power alone, Schauffele’s balanced skill set gives bettors confidence regardless of course setup.
His calm approach and ability to avoid major mistakes have become key reasons why wagering support around him continues to grow ahead of the PGA Championship and Open Championship later this season.
Ludvig Åberg Emerging as the Market’s Rising Star
Ludvig Åberg has rapidly become one of the most talked-about names in golf betting circles during the 2026 season.
The young Swede entered the year carrying enormous expectations, but his performances have already justified much of the growing attention from bettors and analysts.
Strong finishes early in the season, including a breakthrough performance at the Genesis Invitational and an impressive showing at The Players Championship, have elevated him into serious major championship discussions.
What stands out most about Åberg is the confidence bettors appear willing to place in a player still relatively new to golf’s biggest events. Unlike many debutants who receive cautious market support, Åberg has attracted aggressive outright wagers because of his length off the tee, composure under pressure, and rapidly improving all-around game. Sportsbooks have responded by shortening his odds considerably compared to the beginning of the season.
His growing popularity also reflects the modern betting market’s appetite for emerging stars who can win immediately. Åberg’s athletic profile and ability to compete against elite fields have convinced many observers that a breakthrough could happen sooner rather than later.
As the remaining majors approach, he enters the conversation as one of the most heavily followed young players on the board.
Why the Betting Spotlight Keeps Shifting
As the 2026 major season continues, betting interest remains heavily focused on players combining current form with proven performances under pressure. Scottie Scheffler’s consistency, Rory McIlroy’s momentum, Xander Schauffele’s reliability, and Ludvig Åberg’s emergence have each created compelling narratives heading into golf’s biggest tournaments.
Bettors are increasingly targeting a wider range of markets beyond outright winners, including placement finishes and player-specific specials tied to tournament performance.
The evolving landscape of golf betting has also heightened attention on elite contenders capable of adapting to varied course conditions and championship environments. While the remaining majors are still unpredictable, these four golfers continue to command the strongest support across sportsbooks in the United States.
With confidence growing around each player for different reasons, the coming months could produce one of the most competitive and closely watched major stretches in recent golf history.
Content reflects information available as of 2026/05/06; subject to change.
Welcoming guests into your home can be very rewarding. But it can also be very stressful. Whether it’s a friend from school whom you haven’t seen in decades, or a close family member coming over for another Christmas, it’s worth doing a little bit of preparation ahead of time, so that you can retain your sanity.
Prepare the Sleeping Space for Comfort and Privacy
House guests deserve a comfortable, private space in which to spend their time. You should treat it like the room of a good hotel, and think about what you might expect from such a place. Do what you can to make them comfortable by providing fresh towels and bedding, even if they’re just sleeping on a sofa. Make sure that the charging points are clear beside the bed, and that there’s enough space for luggage to be stowed.
Stock Up on Everyday Essentials Before Guests Arrive
When you have guests in your home, your fridge will come under greater pressure. You might find yourself running out of everyday staples. This is where fresh milk delivery can make life easier. Just remember to ask a little more of it.
You might get into the habit of preparing a box filled with spare linen and other essential supplies ahead of time. That way, when you decide that you’re going to host a guest at the last minute, you’ll already have done the work necessary to keep them comfortable.
Create a Clean, Clutter-Free and Welcoming Environment
If your home is filled with junk, then you risk suffering embarrassment when guests come over. Modern guests will tend to have higher expectations, thanks to short-let standards rising. They may notice those small details.
This can actually be a good thing. It might be what persuades you to go through the home and give it a deep clean, and to raise the standards you set for yourself. This, in the long term, can result in improvements in your mental health.
Plan Food, House Rules and Guest Communication in Advance
At the same time, you’ll want to be sure that your guests are aware of certain rules regarding things like the use of the bathroom spaces, and where your guests are allowed to park.
Be forthcoming with the WiFi password. You might find that you can set up a separate network for your guests to use, so that they don’t risk clogging up the main one.
In many cases, these details aren’t a big deal – and confronting guests with a list of rules can put a bit of a dampener on what should be a positive experience. Think about the things that are likely to cause a problem, and make sure that you mention them.
If you live in the UK, then you might at some point be able to take advantage of the law around personal injury. But the process of making a claim can often seem arcane and convoluted. Let’s take a closer look at what’s involved, and how you can get the right outcome for yourself.
What is a personal injury claim?
A personal injury, put simply, is an injury suffered by a person. The term encompasses physical problems, like broken arms and legs, and in many cases less tangible mental ones. It excludes damage to property.
Making a claim means being able to demonstrate that the injury was caused by the negligence or malice of a person or organisation. The law covers accidents in the workplace, on the road, in restaurants, and just about everywhere else. What matters is that harm has been suffered as a result of something that someone did, or did not do.
Let’s take a look at a few hypothetical examples. A worker in a warehouse might slip on a wet surface, dropping a heavy object on their foot in the process. In this instance, the employer might be found liable for the injuries suffered, because they failed to provide the right PPE, and to keep the area clear from hazards – where doing so was reasonably practicable.
On a road, you might take action against a fellow motorist who crashed into the back of you, causing you to suffer whiplash. The principle here is the same: to obtain compensation, you’ll need to demonstrate that you’ve suffered harm, and that the harm was caused by the people from whom damages are being demanded.
What makes a claim valid?
The courts will demand that three things be proven. The first is that a duty of care was owed to the claimant. This might be the duty of care that a doctor owes to a patient, or that a factory operator owes to a worker. The second is that the duty was breached, and the third is that harm resulted. When no harm is done, there’s no claim to make.
There have been some recent tweaks to the law around personal injury that are worth attending to. The law around so-called ‘whiplash’ claims has been changed to make it easier to obtain a remedy without having to go to court. It’s important not to be misled by the name of these rule changes, however: they don’t just apply to whiplash, but to any claim arising from a road traffic accident that’s valued at less than £5,000. It is hoped that this change will ease pressure on courts.
Step Up To Joinery Celebration for Peninsula Participants
South Eastern Regional College (SERC) in partnership with Peninsula Healthy Living Partnership (PHLP) and Kilwarlin Joinery gathered with participants of the Step Up to Joinery Programme to celebrate the end of the programme.
The course, delivered over one morning a week in Portaferry, saw 7 participants successfully complete a 12-week course, offering them the opportunity to learn some joinery skills and knowledge.
During the sessions, the participants, built upon basic joinery skills by designing and making bird boxes, planters and chopping boards in a speciality workshop.
Tuition was delivered by Patrick Teggart from Kilwarlin Joinery, a family owned and run business established in 2001.
Peninsula Healthy Living Partnership played a pivotal role with the recruitment of individuals onto the programme, provided and coordinated transport for participants from home to venue and supported participant engagement throughout the duration of the programme.
Celebrating: (Front L – R) Participants of the Step Up to Joinery Programme, Michael McMahon; William McCrory, Aubrey Lang, Gary Johnston and Ryan Burton Wood with (Back (L – R) Councillor Pete Wray, Ulster Unionist Party; Andrew Leebody, Floating Support Project Worker, Inspire Wellbeing; Adam Ferguson, Community Engagement Officer, SERC; Phillip Adair, Support Worker, Inspire Wellbeing; Allan Reid, Health Development Officer, Peninsula Healthy Living; Ricky Garrett, Men’s Health Worker, North Down YMCA; Dr Jenny Gingles, Co-Founder, Peninsula Healthy Living; Patrick Teggart, Kilwarlin Joinery; Kyle Burch, participant; Shelia Bailie, Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder, Peninsula Healthy Living; Councillor Joe Boyle, Social Democratic and Labour Party.
Catherine Shipman, SERC’s Head of Engagement and Development said: “Step Up to Joinery is a great example of how targeted, community-based provision can make a genuine difference for people who may not otherwise access skills training.
“Through a strong local partnership with PHLP, we were able to support participants not only to learn practical joinery skills, but also to build confidence, motivation and a sense of achievement.
“This kind of collaboration is central to SERC’s commitment to widening participation and supporting inclusive pathways into education and employment.”
Sheila Bailie, PHLP Chief Executive Officer, said: “When the right people come together, great things happen. This collaboration broke down barriers and reached people who don’t usually have access to or the confidence for this kind of opportunity.
“The participants stepped up and inspired us all; credit to Paddy and Ben from Kilwarlin Joinery who were fantastic mentors. It’s an excellent model to develop healthier communities.”
Programme partners, including Inspire Wellbeing and North Down YMCA also attended the celebratory event.
This project is funded by the Department for the Economy through the Step Up project. The programme offers participants the opportunity to gain confidence, learn new skills, while also benefiting from one-to-one mentorship and exploring next steps in education or employment.
Supported by the Skills Fund, Delivering the Minister’s Economic Vision.
McGrath says high agency spending on nurses illustrates need for safe staffing legislation
SDLP Opposition Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath MLA has said a damning report from the Northern Ireland Audit Office on agency nursing costs exposes the urgent need for the Health Minister to bring forward long-promised safe staffing legislation.
Colin McGrath was speaking after the report revealed that health trusts spent more than £160 million on agency nursing staff in a single year, with spending having tripled over the past six years.
Colin McGrath SDLP MLA is concerned that agency nurses is costing the NHS in NI £130 a year and rising. He added we need more nurses to improve patient outcomes.
The report also identified a shortfall of more than 2,100 nurses across Northern Ireland and found that £186 million could have been saved over four years if agency staff had been paid at the same rates as permanent employees.
South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “This report lays bare a system that is failing both patients and healthcare workers.
“Spending over £160 million a year on agency nurses is not sustainable in financial terms, and it is certainly not sustainable in human terms either.
“For too long we have seen the Executive’s approach to healthcare reduced to throwing money at problems without addressing the root causes.
“Agency nurses play a vital role and we are grateful for their contribution, but a growing reliance on temporary staffing is a symptom of deeper failures in workforce planning, recruitment and retention.
“The reality is that our health service does not have enough nurses.
“Existing staff are under immense pressure, morale is suffering and patients are being let down by a system that is constantly firefighting rather than planning ahead.
“That is why the Health Minister must urgently bring forward safe staffing legislation. The evidence is overwhelming that safe staffing levels improve patient outcomes, support staff well-being and help create a stable workforce that reduces the need for costly agency cover.
“Every pound spent plugging gaps at premium rates is a pound that could have been invested in training, recruiting and retaining permanent staff.
“We cannot continue with a model that costs more, delivers less certainty and leaves our health service permanently on the back foot.”
Green Heights team beat Castle Inn B team in a close league match
Around Downpatrick, skittle throwers are looking forward to the new season. Thet have their skittles well soaked in water, ready for action!
For the un-initiated who do not know a ‘skittle’ from a log you would burn in your wood burner, I’ll describe what they are and explain a few rules of the game.
A skittle which should measure 9×3 inches, is made of very hard wood Cecil Telford, for example, says his oines are made of cherry but other hard woods would suit.
They sit permanently in buckets of water to maintain weight and prevent them from splitting when thrown.
The idea is to throw your skittle – you have three per game – at the ring which has number (values) maked and the idea is to score as much as you can to reduce down to zero from 51. Adding 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 you get 15 which is the maximum score for throwing three skittles. The pegs are 9 inches apart.
The Ardglass Green Heights team: included are Martin Kearney, Paul Telford, David Murphy, Christian O’Connor, Ciaran Kearney, Cecil Telford, (Absent is Chris Deegan).
However, if you get down to 9, your throw does not score if you exceed it. You go back to your original score when throwing. So it means that a couple of players could be trying to knock the pegs down for a few nervous throws.
Also, you must not step over the ‘butt’ when throwing (under-hand) and you must not hit the butt in front of the ring.
Usually in pub competitions between 2 teams, six games are played and someone tally’s the score up just as in darts.
Matches usually start around 8pm and run for just over an hour.
The Green Heights were first to throw and David Murphy got through his match against Ross McAlea from Castle Inn B.
Cecel Telford was next up to the butt for the Heights but he wasn’t showing his usual form thsi season yet and suffered a defeat to hands of Decky Quinn. The match was level at this stage.
Castle Inn B team: (l-r) Stephen Kearney, Denis McMenamin, Thomas McAllister, Riley Quinn, Ross McAlea, Cinall McCartan, and Jack Quinn.
The Christian O’Connor fired up for the Heights played excellent skittles scoring well. He finished off his game against Stephen Kearney who was sitting on 14.
Paul Telford also beat Thomas McAlister who was left on 14. The Heights were starting to turn it on.
Then Martin Kearney played another strong game for the Heights leaving Denis McMenamin with 19 to clear.
With one match left, and the Heights winning 4-1, Christopher Deegan stepped up but be was not on form and Castle Inn’s Conall McCartan finished off well leaving Deegan with 14.
So the Ardglass Green Heights team won 4-2 after a couple of strong performances, but it is early in the season yet and the players will take time to get their hand-eye coordination mojo working.
