SOUTH Down Green Party Councillor and MLA candidate Cadogan Enright has been appointed to a UK-wide selection panel to help choose eight potential ‘green’ members to the House of Lords. The panel represents thexa0 combined Green Parties of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, They will narrow down a list of potential Green candidatesxa0 to justxa0 20 candidates . Then all members willxa0 be given the opportunity to vote on the shortlist under PR to select a shortlistxa0 up to eight candidates. Councillor Enright said, “It is strange to be selected to help appoint the Green Party’s nominations to an institution we all oppose, but it is nevertheless important to have more strong voices in Westminster to support our sole MP Caroline Lucas.

rd Jan 2011 Wednesday past saw the County juvenile handball finals come to Down Leisure Centre. This was the first opportunity in several years for RGU members to witness the high levels of skill which our young stars have attained. Two years ago the club rolled out a Primary School’s coaching programme. The structures put in place are nowxa0beginning to bear fruit, with many children now taking part in various competitions throughout Ulster.

* xa0RECORD IT – Make a complete inventory of your equipment, especially outboard motors. xa0xa0Include serial numbers and any identifying marks specific to your property. Photograph items that are distinctive and keep with your inventory. * xa0MARK IT – Mark property with your postcode and name/house number in a concealed area. xa0There are many ways to do this from etching or marking with waterproof indelible pen to ‘Smartwater’ (or other specialist identifying methods). * xa0REMOVE IT – The best way to keep thieves from stealing property is not to leave valuables onboard – removing electronic equipment and other valuables will eliminate the majority of thefts. xa0Although many boats have lockable storage installed by boat manufacturers, they are sometimes not adequate to deter thieves. xa0Off the shelf locks and security hinges can assist with security. xa0Window locks on sliding windows (or placing a strip of wood where the glass slides) will assist with security. * xa0CLUB SECURITY – A tactful offer to assist a stranger on the premises in finding a person or boat will help to deter a thief and assist a genuine member. * xa0LOCK IT – Lightweight hasps and locks are easily broken or cut providing access to equipment stored in lockers. xa0Outboard motor locks and quality shielded ‘heavy duty’ locks can assist; although they are more expensive initially, a quality lock will prevent a thief from taking your property. xa0Inflatable tenders are easily moved and are a popular item for resale; secure them to a fixed point using a quality chain or lock. * xa0REPORT IT – Report any thefts immediately to Police, your club and your insurance company. xa0Use your inventory and photographs to assist in giving as much information as possible. For further information on marine security please contact your local Crime Prevention Officer on 0845 600 8000.]]>

HAVE-a Heart Week – centred on St Valentine’s Day – focuses on saving the lives of people who could be at risk of sudden death without any warning signs. The annual fundraising and awareness week, organised by NI Chest Heart and Stroke, aims to tackle the growing incidence of sudden death in people – usually men – in their 40’s and 50’s despite having no symptoms of illness. Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Eamonn ONeill, who is supporting the campaign said, “Unfortunately it seems that where the heart is concerned, there are no second chances. Given that in many cases there are no symptoms or warning signs, it’s vitally important that we do what we can now to improve the health of our hearts, and take the advice of experts in order to minimise the risk of heart attack.”