Film on the impacts of cocaine is premiered in Newry
A powerful new awareness film highlighting the devastating effects of cocaine use and addiction on individuals, families and communities, was premiered at the Canal Court Hotel in Newry at an event hosted by former GAA footballer and mental health advocate Oisín McConville.
Entitled Impacts of Cocaine – The Human Cost, the film was developed by Aftercare Addiction Services charity Davina’s Ark, in partnership with Newry Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), and places people at the centre of the conversation around drug addiction, challenges perceptions and confronts the misconception that cocaine use is a victimless activity.
Included with Mr McConville, second right, are Newry and Armagh MP Daire Hughes, PSNI Deputy Chief Constable Ryan Henderson, Rosemary Rooney (Davina’s Ark Chief Executive Officer), Gavin Booth and Ciaran Mackin (Davina’s Ark Board members) and Martina Flynn (Newry Mourne and Down District Council Head of Engagement).
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell (front, second right) at the premiere of new film with back row (from left) PSNI Deputy Chief Constable Ryan Henderson, Newry and Armagh MP Daire Hughes, Gavin Booth and Ciaran Mackin (Davina’s Ark Board members). Front row: Former GAA footballer Oisín McConville, Martina Flynn (Newry Mourne and Down District Council Head of Engagement) and Davina’s Ark Chief Executive Officer Rosemary Rooney.
Davina’s Ark Chief Executive Officer Rosemary Rooney (front centre) with members of the Aftercare Addictions Services charity at the film premiere. The organisation recently won the Community Wellbeing Initiative Award at the All-Island IPB Pride of Place Awards for its compassionate care to families and individuals affected by addiction.
Schools Come Together to Create Landmark Mural in Downpatrick
Local children are transforming Downpatrick Bus Station with a bold new mural, brought to life by Killough artist Kieron Black, as part of Translink’s wider When Walls Speak Welcome project.
Through a series of creative workshops, pupils from St Brigid’s Primary School and Downpatrick Primary School have explored what their town means to them and the power of public transport to connect them.
Gary Dunlop, Translink Project Manager, said: “What stands out most is the connection – between the pupils, between the schools and with the place itself.
“This is about young people shaping a space they use every day, and that’s incredibly powerful.”
At its core, the project reflects how public transport spaces can bring people together. By working across both schools, it has created space for shared ideas, new friendships, and real collaboration.
With pupils seeing their voices reflected in a station they use every day, and experiencing first-hand how transport connects people, place, and community.
Pupils from St Brigids PS and Downpatrick PS are looking forward to creating murals at Translink’s Downpatrick Bus Station with artist Kieron Black.
Mrs Dolores Miller, Principal of St Brigid’s Primary School, said: “This project has given our pupils a real sense of pride, seeing their ideas come to life in a shared space for the whole community.
“Working alongside another local school has been particularly powerful, building connections, and encouraging understanding.
Alongside the shared mural at the bus station, each school will receive its own mural -bringing pupils’ ideas to life in their own space and creating a lasting mark of connection across the community.
Mr Daryn Maginnis, Vice Principal of Downpatrick Primary School, added: “Bringing the two schools together made this really special for our pupils.
“It’s helped build friendships and a shared sense of ownership, showing them that their voices matter and that they can play a role in shaping their community.”
Artist Kieron Black said: “This mural is really about the children’s voices. My role has been to listen and through paint translate their ideas into something that reflects Downpatrick as they see it.”
The mural forms part of Translink’s wider programme of community-led artwork, helping to create more welcoming, engaging spaces across the network and encouraging people to feel connected to the places they travel through.
Work on the murals in Downpatrick is due to commence shortly.
About Translink Translink is Northern Ireland’s public transport provider, delivering bus and rail services that connect people, communities, and places across the region. Through its Better.Connected strategy, Translink is committed to enhancing the customer experience, supporting sustainable travel, and creating inclusive, accessible spaces that people feel proud to use.
About Downpatrick Bus Station Downpatrick Bus Station is a key transport hub serving the local community and surrounding areas. Translink continues to invest in the station to improve the customer experience, enhance accessibility and create a more welcoming environment for passengers and visitors.
About Kieron Black Kieron Black is an artist from Killough and a children’s book author, illustrator, and watercolourist. He has extensive experience delivering community-led creative projects, helping participants translate their ideas into meaningful public artworks that reflect local identity and shared experience.
About Downpatrick Primary School Downpatrick Primary School is a co-educational school at the heart of the local community, committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment where pupils are encouraged to develop confidence, creativity, and a strong sense of belonging.
About St Brigid’s Primary School, Downpatrick St Brigid’s Primary School is a welcoming and inclusive school that places a strong emphasis on community, respect and shared values. The school is committed to nurturing pupils’ creativity and encouraging them to engage positively with the world around them.
County Down’s Presbyterian Women prepare for annual conference ‘Generation to Generation’
Local Presbyterian Women’s groups in congregations across County Down will come together in Belfast on 16th May 2026 for their annual conference.
The organisation supports the development and resourcing of ministry among women in the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI), and the meeting itself is one of the largest gatherings of Christian women in Ireland.
Taking place in PCI’s Assembly Buildings in central Belfast, this year’s theme is ‘Generation to Generation’. “Much of what Presbyterian Women does happens in the 450 local groups that are spread across our local congregations across the denomination, including those across County Down,” said PCI’s Women’s Ministry and Presbyterian Women Development Officer, Pauline Kennedy.
“So, when women from the groups come together for the annual conference, it is always a special moment in the PW calendar, which I am very much looking forward to,”
“As an organisation we are committed to supporting the development and resourcing of ministry among women in PCI, enabling, equipping and encouraging women of all ages to become disciples of Christ. Our annual women’s conference is, however, open to all women, as we come together to worship, focus on God’s word, and celebrate what he is doing in our lives and through his church.
Pauline Kennedy, the PCI’s Women’s Ministry and Presbyterian Women Development Officer.
“It is also a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to what God has planned for the year ahead, and this year our theme is taken from Psalm 79:13, which says: ‘Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will praise you forever; from generation to generation, we will proclaim your praise.’
Mrs Kennedy added: “Our focus won’t just be on the younger generation, but the older generation too, which is a growing part of society. We will think biblically about the God of the generations and how we can be women who play our part in his story as we seek to pass on faith in our chaotic world.
“As we prepare for our conference, we come expectant to encounter him afresh and take his blessing back to our local churches and communities.”
“To help us focus on our theme, we have Jo Frost as our guest speaker. Jo is the newly appointed Executive Director at the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics, and before that she had served for the past eight years as the Director of Communications and Engagement at the Evangelical Alliance.
“I am really looking forward to hearing what she has to say,” Mrs Kennedy said.
Over the years upwards of 1,000 women attend the annual meeting. Those attending from County Down, and from congregations across the denomination, will also hear from outgoing PW President, Linda Beattie, who worships in Joymount Presbyterian Church in Carrickfergus.
Talking about her year as president, Mrs Beattie said it had been a ‘privilege’ to serve as she had ‘thoroughly enjoyed it.’
Involving much travelling, Mrs Beattie visited 34 different PW groups, she said that, “each one was unique as they served God where he had placed them as women with a heart for ministry and mission within their church and their community.
The outgoing president, Linda Beattie.
“While it has been humbling to see the dedication and commitment from group leaders and committees and the women themselves, it has also been a privilege to have been president.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed it, but I certainly could not have done it on my own strength as I have felt God’s presence with me every step of the way.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported me prayerfully and practically this year, as it has been so appreciated.”
Mrs Beattie added: “It has been the most challenging, inspiring and privileged time. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to spend time talking with the women in their individual congregations and seeing how God has been ever-present with them this year.
“My prayer is that they would continue to feel God’s presence, guiding and leading them to serve him where he has placed them.”
During the annual meeting Mrs Beattie will hand over the presidency to Libby Russell, who worships in Ballycarry Presbyterian Church. “As I come to the end of my year in office, I would like to wish Libby God’s richest blessing as she enters her term as president.
“I hope that I can be the listening ear and coffee-confidant that she has been to me this year. I know God will strengthen and encourage her and that she will be a blessing to everyone she meets,” Mrs Beattie said.
The conference is from 10.30am to 1.45pm on Saturday, 16 May, and includes tea/coffee and scones. Costing £10 (or euro equivalent) it can be booked via:
There have been women’s organisations within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) for over 150 years.Presbyterian Women (PW) is an organisation for women within PCI and is part of women’s ministry within the Church.
PW Groups are envisaged as women’s fellowships in which women are encouraged to become Christians and to become Christ-like. In addition to supporting mission at home and overseas, each group is to seek ways of actively reaching women in its own area for Christ. PW’s motto is ‘Living for Jesus’
Encouraging women to become disciples of Christ it aims to highlight the need for:
Love and unity
Obedience to God
Christian living and spiritual maturity
Service using gifts, time and money
Local and global mission
The organisation supports the work of the Council of Mission in Ireland by helping to fund deaconess training and the outreach of South Belfast Friendship House into Sandy Row.
It also supports the Council for Global Mission as it sends out and funds global mission workers in countries across the globe through donations made to our Mission Fund. Each year, Presbyterian Women also select special projects, both at home and overseas.
Check out the Down News Ltd Social Impact Report (2026)
Overview
Down News Ltd is an independent, digital-first hyperlocal newspaper serving communities across County Down since 2009. It provides free, accessible news and information to ensure all residents—particularly those in rural or underserved areas—can stay informed, engaged, and connected.
Our Reach & Audience
• 11.9 million+ annual page views on Facebook (past 12 months) with 17,000+ organic Facebook followers.
• 20,800+ weekly visitors to the Down News website generating 22,400 weekly views
What We Do
• Produce hundreds of articles each year across news and sport
• Provide professional photography services for businesses, events, sports, and social occasions
• Cover key sectors including health, education, arts, local government, environment, farming, rural affairs, and business
• Offer a free, open-access platform for charities, community groups, public bodies, and local residents to disseminate information
Our Social Impact
Strengthening Local Democracy
Supports transparency through independent, non-political reporting, increasing public awareness and enabling informed civic participation.
Expanding Access to Information
Removes financial barriers by offering free digital news and reaching rural and underserved communities with timely information.
Amplifying Community Voices
Provides inclusive coverage and encourages contributions from across the community, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented.
Supporting Local Economy
Offers affordable advertising for small businesses and promotes local services, events, and initiatives.
Building Social Connection
Highlights community achievements and strengthens local identity while connecting audiences locally and globally.
Why It Matters
In an era of declining local journalism, Down News plays a critical role in ensuring that communities remain informed, represented, and connected. Its scale—reaching millions annually—combined with its grassroots focus makes it a vital platform for public information, civic engagement, and community resilience.
Looking Ahead
Down News Ltd aims to continue expanding its digital reach, deepen community engagement, and enhance its role as a trusted, independent voice for County Down.
Contact Details
Down News Ltd Office 1 Knowledge House Down Business Centre 46 Belfast Road Downpatrick County Down Northern Ireland UK BT30 9UP.
IoD launches a Commission to examine the role of business as a force for good
At a time of heightened public scrutiny of corporate behaviour, the Institute of Directors has launched a new Commission to examine the role of business across the regions of the UK and assess the extent to which business is acting as a force for good in today’s world.
Northern Ireland has a vibrant small business sector and a growing social enterprise sector, and Down News spoke to Community Transport Association NI Chief Executive Frances Campbell, who said: “
The Commission will undertake a rigorous, evidence‑based assessment of how businesses create economic, social and environmental value, as well as the factors, behaviours and incentives that have limited or undermined positive impacts.
Its work will also explore where business is falling short, and the conditions under which it can best contribute to long‑term prosperity and wellbeing.
The Institute of Directors, a UK-wide organisation, has set up a Commission to look at social value impacts of business across the regions of the UK.
Chaired by The Lord Rees of Easton OBE, the Commission brings together senior representatives from across business, professional bodies, trade unions and civil society to provide a well-rounded, credible assessment of how business contributes to society today.
The Commission will run from Spring to Autumn 2026 and conclude with practical recommendations for directors, boards and policymakers on how businesses can support long‑term economic success, social progress and sustainable development.
Commenting on the new Commission, Jonathan Geldart, Director General of the IoD, said: “At a time of economic, social and environmental pressure, it is right to ask a serious question: is business truly a force for good?
“This IoD Commission will move this debate beyond slogans and binaries, undertaking a rigorous, evidence‑based assessment of how businesses create economic, social and environmental value, and where outcomes have fallen short.
“It will examine the incentives, behaviours and governance structures that shape real‑world decisions, recognising that enterprise is complex, trade‑offs are real and leadership is often exercised under significant constraint.
“We are deeply grateful to Lord Rees for agreeing to Chair this Commission, alongside a distinguished group drawn from business, policy, the trade union movement and wider civil society.
“Their collective insight will be essential in grounding the Commission’s work in lived experience and hard evidence, helping to define what responsible enterprise should look like in practice – protecting the honest majority, strengthening trust, and ensuring business plays its full role as a stable, productive force in a resilient society.”
Commenting on his appointment as Chair of the Commission, Lord Rees said: “I am pleased to be chairing this Commission at such an important moment. Society is a collective act, shaped by the choices we make across politics, economics, civic life and personal responsibility.
“Business is central to that story. It creates jobs, wealth, innovation and opportunity, and it shapes communities, life chances and public trust.
“But building a good society is not simply an act of altruism. It is enlightened self-interest. Healthy populations make for resilient workforces. Stable societies are good for investment.
“Business leaders and workforces live in, and are shaped by, the world business helps create. And these are determinants of business success.
“This work is timely. Many people are losing faith in the institutions that have held our society and economy together. Too many feel left behind by an economy that no longer offers the security, dignity and opportunity it once promised.
“This Commission will examine honestly where business has been, and can be, a force for good; where it has fallen short; and what conditions are needed for business to contribute to long-term prosperity, wellbeing and inclusive, sustainable development.”
Further details on the Commission are available here.
Cllr Conor Galbraith (SDLP) says the entrance area to Downpatrick on the Belfast Road needs attention
SDLP Councillor Conor Galbraith has expressed his concerns at a number of key issues at the Belfast Road entrance to Downpatrick from the bridge over the River Quoile down to the roundabout.
Against a background of the County Town being left behind, he said much more could be done to create a better impression for visitors coming into the ancient and historic town.
Cllr Galbraith said: “There are a number of issues that cumulatively just degrade the overall first impression you get when you approach Downpatrick once you reach the Belfast Road bridge.
“I understand that some of these issues could be further improved by the respective governments departments and our Council. I will do what I can to press forward on these matters.
“In driving over the River Quoile, there needs to be clear vistas upstream and downstream so visitors can take in the natural beauty of the area. Although there has been some hedge trimming, it needs to be tidied up and done to a plan over the year.
“Gaps could be created without interfering too much in the habitat for birds etc. These views upsteam and downstream of the River Quoile are much undervalued.
Cllr Conor Galbraith looks over the broken, decayed fending facing Roughal Park on the Belfast Road.
“Also, the wooden fencing running along the main road facing Roughal Park on the left hand side approaching the roundabout is basically past its sell-by date and needs replaced.
“This would create a much better impression than an old rotten wooden fence, previously patched up, with gaps in it.
“But one of my main concerns too is the abstract metal statue of St Patrick. Firstly, it needs a proper cleaning. It looks like it is finished in stainless steel but has a lot of green algae and dirt sticking to the upright parts of this figure.
Cllr Galbraith says the St Patrick’s abstract statue on the Belfast Road needs a bit more tlc. Algae and dirt are growing on the upright figure although the area has seen a brush-up recently.
“We need to take more pride in our patron saint.
“And secondly, there are stone blocks that have become dislodged from the base of the statue that need to be re-cemented back in place. The rest of the masonry also should be checked.
“But the area around the statue is well planted out by the Council and definitely a plus. If there was a good quality information board about the history of St Patrick that too would add to the ‘enhanced Downpatrick experience’.
Masonry issues: At least three edging blocks have broken off the raised base of the St Patrick statue on the Belfast Road.
Cllr Galbraith added that there were other on-going issues that local people had complained about such as the increase in fly-posting.
But a key concern he said was the actual state of the surface of the Belfast road which he has received a number of complaints about already.
He noted that the footpath leading out towards the business park used by workers in the industrial estate, joggers, walkers and cyclists needs a proper clean probably with a mechanical brusher to remove the loose stones and dirt that has built up under foot.
“Some of these issues may seem minor, however, but together in the mix they give an impression that Downpatrick is second grade and that is simply not good enough.
“Therefore, more needs to be done for our town.
“Clearing up these basic issues in the short-term at the beginning of the tourist season is really quite low cost with a high impact and would be a good start. Some issues may take longer to address.
“I understand we can’t cut hedges now at this time of year because of bird nesting etc. That’s why forward planning is essential,” added Cllr Galbraith.
NIFRS Comments On Ongoing Wildfires Across Northern Ireland
It has been a busy week for NIFRS crews across County Down as wildfires have sprung up now that the upland areas of bracken and gorse have dried out.
An NIFRS spokesperson said: “Currently the wildfire in Sandbank Road, Hilltown, continues and we are also asking the public to avoid Chimney Rock Mountain due to a wildfire.
“In terms of the wildfire in Ballagh Road, Newcastle, from Saturday to Tuesday there were a total of 24 Fire Stations involved in the incident at different intervals as teh fires unfolded.
“Firefighters are continuing to work tirelessly at the Sandbank Road, Hilltown, wildfire incident.
“Approximately 50 Firefighters are in attendance battling a fire front of over 500m. Firefighting operations will continue today so we ask the public to avoid this area.
The NIFRS is asking countryside users to try and prevent fires as the dry summer months arrive. Fires have been ongoing across County Down since the fine weather arrived just over a week ago. (Pictured are firemen working at a blaze near Leitrim in 2005).
“With the weather warning still in place, we are appealing to the public to adhere to our fire safety advice. Please stay vigilant to fire in the countryside.
“If you see a fire, call 999 immediately.”
Please adhere to the following advice to prevent fires in the countryside:
Avoid using open fires in the countryside. An open fire can easily get out of control.
Extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials properly and don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.
Only use barbeques in a suitable and safe area and never leave them unattended.
Ensure barbeques are fully extinguished and cold before disposing of their contents.
Don’t leave bottles or glass in woodland or grassland. Take them home or dispose in a waste or recycling bin.
Be considerate in parking vehicles so you don’t impede access for emergency vehicles.
Keep children away from lighters, matches and open fires.
Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be extinguished with a bucket of water – leave the area as quickly as possible.
If you see a fire in the countryside, report it to NIFRS immediately by calling 999.
If you see someone setting fires, report it to the PSNI.
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Muir Says Arson Is A Major Factor In Recent Spate Of Fires
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: “It is soul destroying to see the Mournes ravaged again by wildfires during the first significant spell of sunshine this year.
“The impact of these fires is real and significant, with lives potentially at risk, communities in fear and natural habitats destroyed.
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir is concerned at the recent spate of wildfires and poinmts a finger at rural arson.
“I am immensely grateful to the NI Fire and Rescue Service for the sustained response in challenging conditions and would urge everyone to heed calls to stay away whilst firefighting continues.
“Should you see a fire in the countryside, call 999 immediately and alert the Fire and Rescue Service.
“Rural arson is a crime, if anyone has any information on those deliberately lighting malicious fires in our countryside they should contact the Police or Crimestoppers anonymously without delay.”
“The NIEA continues to engage with partner agencies like the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service and the PSNI and would urge everyone enjoying the good weather to act responsibly and follow the Countryside Code.
“Avoid open fires in the countryside, only use barbecues in designated areas and never leave them unattended.
“Ensure no litter is left behind, extinguish and dispose of all cigarettes and smoking materials properly.”
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Butler says better upland farming is key to preventing Mournes wildfires
Ulster Unionist Agriculture Spokesperson and AERA Committee Chairman Robbie Butler MLA has reacted with disappointment to the latest wildfires devastating the Mourne Mountains, with around 95 firefighters currently deployed across multiple fronts.
Robbie Butler UUP MLA said: “Once again, we are watching the Mournes burn.
“This is becoming an appalling annual pattern and it simply is not good enough.
The air filled with thick smoke in the Mournes last year. Fires have started again as the tourist season gets under way.
“I agree with the Agriculture Minister that where these fires are being deliberately set, that is rural arson, it is a serious crime, and those responsible must face the full consequences.
“But we also have to be honest about the fuel that feeds these fires. Unmanaged gorse in areas that have lost active grazing creates the conditions for catastrophe.
“Sheep aren’t the problem in our uplands, but they’re part of the solution.
“If we properly support good agricultural practices in our uplands, we can reduce fire risk, protect habitats, and sustain farming livelihoods that is a genuine win-win.
“The bravery of our firefighters is not in question.
“What is in question is whether we have the will to finally act before the flames take hold. Once again I’m saying ‘cut the gorse, not the grazing.’ “
Chief Nursing Officer praises South Eastern Trust District Nursing and Hospital at Home teams in Downpatrick
Northern Ireland’s Chief Nursing Officer, Maria McIlgorm recently visited staff from the South Eastern Trust’s District Nursing and Hospital at Home Services in Downpatrick.
The visit provided a valuable opportunity to showcase the dedication and professionalism of District Nursing and Hospital at Home Teams and to highlight the vital role they play in supporting people to remain well and cared for closer to home, avoiding the need for hospital-based treatment.
During the visit, staff shared examples of innovation, partnership working and the positive impact these services have on patients and families across the Trust area.
Maria McIlgorm (pictured 4th right) with Hospital at Home staff, Veronica Cleland (Director of Primary Care and Older People) and Tony O’Connor (Interim Asst Director Primary Care). (Photos courtesy of SEHSCT).
The teams demonstrated how community-based care continues to evolve to meet increasing demand, while maintaining a strong focus on delivering safe, effective and compassionate care.
Speaking after the visit, the Chief Nursing Officer, Maria McIlgorm, said: “The visit highlighted that District Nursing and Hospital at Home Teams are highly skilled professional Teams with a deep understanding of their patient populations.
“Embedded in the heart of the communities they serve, they are leading the way in delivering a neighbourhood model of care that focuses on prevention, early intervention and health promotion.
“And they are addressing health inequalities, avoiding unnecessary hospital admissions and providing care where people want it most – in or near their own homes.”
Marie McIlgorm, right, Chief Nursing Officer for NI, has praised the work of the District Nursing teams in Downpatrick.
South Eastern Trust, Director of Primary Care and Older People, Veronica Cleland, added: “We were delighted to welcome the Chief Nursing Officer to Downpatrick and to showcase the excellent work of our District Nursing and Hospital at Home Teams.
“These services play a vital role in supporting people to remain at home, reducing unnecessary hospital admissions and ensuring patients receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
“We welcome the continued focus on strengthening community-based care and supporting our nursing workforce to deliver high-quality, compassionate services for the population we serve.”
Maria McIlgorm (pictured centre) with Hospital at Home staff, Veronica Cleland (Director of Primary Care and Older People) and Tony O’Connor (Interim Asst Director Primary Care)
Maria McIlgorm (pictured far right) with District Nursing Staff
Newtownards Fire Station Completes £1m Refurbishment
Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has completed a significant £1m refurbishment at Newtownards Fire Station to enhance its facilities.
Originally built in the early 1950’s, the Station has been modernised to meet the needs of a contemporary Fire & Rescue Service, enhancing operational capability, Firefighter welfare and sustainability.
The refurbishment works, completed successfully in April 2026, represent a significant investment in local fire and rescue infrastructure, ensuring the Station is fit for purpose for years to come.
The Station now benefits from improved welfare facilities, bespoke kit room, and fully renewed mechanical and electrical systems. To support sustainability goals, the Station has been installed with solar panels.
The refurbished Fire Station in Newtownards which was completed in April 2026.
NIFRS Southern Area Commander Dermot Rooney said: “The completion of this £1m refurbishment at Newtownards Fire Station is a significant investment in both our people and our infrastructure.
“After over 70 years of service, these upgrades will ensure the Station remains effective for decades.
“We are dedicated to providing our crews with safe and modern working environments and we are proud to see this Station transformed into a facility that reflects the standards and ambition of NIFRS.
“Newtownards Fire Station plays a vital role in emergency response to its local community.
“We are immensely grateful to everyone who contributed to this project and to the local community for their continued trust and backing of their Fire & Rescue Service.
“Together we are helping to make Northern Ireland a safer place for all.”
Water Makes the World Go Roundsays NI Wateras it visits St Joseph’s PS Strangford and St Malachy’s PS Newry
Pupils of St Joseph’s Primary School Strangford learned that water makes the world go round when NI Water’s education team came to visit their schools to teach them all about the Water Cycle.
NI Water’s educational programme, ‘H2O and the Wonderful World of Water’, taught the children about the value of water and how important it is for us all to look after it.
During the visit, the children were introduced to H20, a water drop figure and masc
They took part in a ‘Bag it and Bin it’ activity to demonstrate what can and can’t be put down the toilet. The children were also introduced to NI Water’s chosen charity – WaterAid, who work to help those who have no access to safe water or sanitation.
St Joseph’s PS pupils from Strangford soaked up the NI water water bus.
NI Water’s Outreach and Learning Officer Anna Killen said: ‘‘NI Water places great importance on educating young people in the vital role water plays in our lives. H2O is a fun way for children to learn about the water cycle, why water is essential for good health and how they can help to conserve this precious resource.
“NI Water are guardians of the infrastructure; the networks and assets, but every one of us uses the service. Only together, as a company and a community, can we continue to protect our most valuable and precious asset – water.
Pupils from St Malachy’s PS in Newry enjote da vist from the water bus.
“We are delighted with the positive feedback we have received from schools who have participated in NI Water’s educational programme. It’s a fantastic way for us to deliver what matters for the local community and educate future generations of water users.”
Why not get water fit and try our new online water audit at https://www.getwaterfit.co.uk to see just how water wise you are and receive free water saving items such as 4 minute shower timers, leaky loo strips and toothy timers for the little one.
