Narrow Water Bridge will be a game changer for tourism in South Down and wider Newry and Mourne community says Mason
Sinn Féin South Down MLA Cathy Mason has said the development of the Narrow Water Bridge will be a game changer for tourism in South Down and the wider Newry and Mourne community.
The South Down MLA was speaking after the project was discussed in the Assembly. She said: “I welcome the First Minister’s statement and the continued emphasis on real and practical north/south delivery including how the Shared Island investment can help to unlock tourism and economic potential in South Down.
Cathy Mason MLA has said that the Narrow Water Bridge will be a major tourism driver.
“The Narrow Water Bridge will deliver real and tangible benefits.
“It will be a new landmark and a game changer for tourism in South Down and the wider Newry and Mourne community.
“It will further transform and enhance connectivity, which will support the local tourism and hospitality sectors in particular.
“Significant progress has been made on the project and I want to commend the work of the Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins and her counterpart in the South, who have worked with Louth County Council and the local council to ensure that the project comes to fruition.
“Sinn Féin will continue to ensure the Narrow Water bridge is delivered to improve the lives of workers, families and local businesses across South Down.”
Record numbers of entrants for 10th Co. Down 5K races with great commnity support
Downpatrick came alive on Friday evening (12th June 2026) as almost 600 runners took to the streets for the 10th anniversary of the MB McGrady Co. Down 5Km, marking a milestone year for one of Northern Ireland’s most popular community road races.
Organised on a not-for-profit basis by Race Directors Gavin Oakes and Andrew Telford, the event once again brought together runners of all ages and abilities for an evening that celebrated sport, community and local pride.
Over the past decade, the Co. Down 5KM has grown from a local idea into a major fixture on the running calendar, raising more than £80,000 for local charities and community causes while showcasing Downpatrick to visitors from across Ireland and beyond.
Robbie Hagen was the winner of the County Down 5K for the third time. (Photo: courtesy of Co Down 5K).
The racing itself produced performances of the highest quality. Robbie Hagen claimed a remarkable third consecutive Co Down 5KM title, further cementing his place in the history of the event.
In the women’s race, Anna Gardiner produced a superb run to take the ladies’ title and add her name to an impressive list of previous winners.
The evening was about far more than the elite races. Hundreds of spectators lined the route while the hugely popular Paula McCreesh Kids Races, proudly sponsored by Mabel’s Ice Cream Parlour, brought young runners and families into the heart of the celebrations, creating a fantastic atmosphere throughout the town centre.
From first-time runners taking part in the children’s races to seasoned athletes chasing personal bests in the main event, the Co Down 5KM once again demonstrated its unique ability to bring the entire community together through sport.
Race Director Gavin Oakes said: “Ten years ago, we set out to create an event that would showcase Downpatrick, encourage people to get active and give something back to our community. To see where the event is today is incredibly special.
Anna Gardiner, second right, was the ladies’ winner in the 5k.
“What makes the Co. Down 5Km unique is the people behind it. From our volunteers and sponsors to the runners, spectators and local residents who support us every year, this event belongs to the whole community.
“To celebrate our 10th anniversary with almost 600 runners on the streets and to know we have now raised over £80,000 for local causes is something we are immensely proud of.”
Race Director Andrew Telford added: “The standard of racing this year was outstanding, but what stands out most is the atmosphere. The support around the course was incredible and once again showed the very best of Downpatrick.
“We would like to thank every runner, volunteer, sponsor and supporter who played their part in making the 10th anniversary such a success.”
The organisers paid particular tribute to title sponsor MB McGrady & Co along with the many local businesses whose support helps make the event possible year after year.
The proceeds from this year’s race will support local charity partners Suicide Down to Zero and Life Change Changes Lives, continuing the event’s commitment to making a positive difference across the local community.
As the celebrations continue following another successful event, plans are already underway for 2027, with organisers determined to build on the success of a decade that has firmly established the Co. Down 5KM as one of County Down’s premier sporting occasions.
Warrenpoint Harbour will be visited by a Spanish Galleon on a 5-day visit
An imposing historic vessel arrives in Warrenpoint: the Galeón Andalucía. Moored at Warrenpoint Harbour, it will invite the public, from June 17th to 21st, to come aboard to walk its decks and discover what life was like on these fabulous ships that sailed the oceans for centuries.
This visit is one of the ship’s port calls in the UK during its 2026 tour.
The vessel is a unique replica of the Spanish galleons that, for three centuries, linked Andalusia and Spain with America and Asia. It stands as a symbol of the most universal Andalusia, reflecting an era when this region was the ideal launchpad for the maritime expeditions that explored the world and initiated globalization.
The Galeón Andalucía is an impressive 55-meter-long ship featuring six decks, meticulously built from iroko and pine wood. It boasts nearly 1,000 square meters of sail area spread across seven sails.
The Galeón Andalucía will be visiting Warrenpoint Harbour from the Wednesday 17th to Sunday 21st June 2026. Booking for visits is essential.
Built by the Fundación Nao Victoria in Punta Umbría (Andalusia, Spain) with rigorous historical accuracy, it showcases the thousands-of-years-old maritime tradition of the Andalusian community.
This ship has already covered hundreds of thousands of nautical miles across the globe, visiting ports on four continents—such as London, Liverpool, Shanghai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Manila, New York, and Quebec—welcoming thousands of visitors at every stop.
Today, it travels as a floating ambassador for Andalusia as a tourist destination, as part of its grand 2026 European tour through several cities in France, England, Ireland, and Northern Europe.
Over the coming days, Warrenpoint will dress itself in maritime history and the vibrant colors of Andalusia.
This is a unique opportunity to step onto the decks of this legendary ship, learn about the daily lives of the crew members who once connected worlds and oceans, and understand how it still sails thousands of miles today as an imposing floating museum of universal Andalusian history and maritime culture.
To celebrate our visit to the city, we’ve launched an ONLINE PROMOTION with EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTSPLEASE NOTE! If online tickets sell out, no further tickets will be available at the box office. Online tickets will take priority.
Book your tickets now on the website of tickets.velacuadra.es so you don’t miss out on this fantastic ship! Schools and organisations must book their visit by emailing [email protected]
Would you like to sail aboard the Galeón Andalucía? Find out about all the cruises available at Tall Ship Experience.
Galeón Andalucía tickets ONLINE: adults: £12 / Children (aged 5–10): £6 / £30 for families (2 adults + up to 3 children aged 5–10). Free for children under 5, who must be accompanied by an adult.
Galeón Andalucía tickets ONSITE: adults: £15 / Children (5–10 years): £7 / £37 for families (2 adults + up to 3 children aged 5–10)
Guided tours for schools and organisations: £7 (one teacher free for every 10 children). Ages 10 and over: £15. Book via: [email protected] // Tfno. +34 954 09 09 56.
At Downpatrick Racecourse: Successful weekend for trainer Dermot McLoughlin
The weekend’s two-day race meeting at Downpatrick was a highly competitive fixture with a good spread of results, but the main success story of the event was a trio of victories for County Meath-based trainer Dermot McLoughlin, who had three winners across the meeting.
Read on for a preview of and tips for the Downpatrick card, brought to you byBetBrothers.
Saturday 13th June
In the opening maiden hurdle (1.25), Brosna Queen justified her joint favouritism to win by just over a length, with the other joint market lead, Ardeen Joy, back in third. Spring Waltz was second, while 250/1 outsider Torque De Lune outran her odds very well to finish fourth.
Next, in a handicap hurdle (2.00), Matthew Smith’s Cozone became another winning favourite, ridden by James Smith. He finished over four lengths ahead of his next closest market rival, Gavin Cromwell’s Arcland, with Warm In Gorey finishing third.
The first division of a QR handicap hurdle followed (2.35). The Noel Kelly-trained Nakassama was hot favourite at 11/10, and won decisively by over four lengths. The horses in second and third were somewhat surprising; 11/1 shot Hitthehayson finishing runner-up, while Western Model was third at 20/1.
In the second division (3.10), Seamus Neville’s True Harmony was the market leader but couldn’t do any better than sixth place, leaving Joya Del Mar to bring in the first win of the weekend for Dermot McLoughlin, running on well to win by over four lengths. Gangster Granny was second, followed by Georgia Celena in third.
A handicap chase followed (3.45). Here, Dermot McLoughlin was brought a quickfire double by 5/1 shot Finnians Row, who was ridden by Liam McKenna. Again, the two horses behind him were unexpected; 25/1 shot Ringdufferin as the runner-up, followed by 12/1 shot King’s Son in third.
The sixth race was a beginners’ chase (4.20). The market predicted the winner correctly here, as 11/8 favourite Saunton Surf trained in Maghera by Danny Magill won comfortably by an impressive 10 lengths under Philip Donovan. Anodandawink was second and Kalsman third.
Saunton Surf with jockey Philip Donovan won the Saturday beginners’ steeplechase.
The penultimate race was a handicap chase (4.55). Our biggest priced winner of the day cam here; John Carr’s Fr Gilligansvoyge, who jumped off at 18/1. Despite facing a challenge from Malton Groove, the 13-year-old veteran gelding kept on to win by half a length under Sarah Kavanagh.
Finally, Saturday’s racing concluded with a bumper (5.30). Willie Mullins’ hot favourite, Katie Can’t Count, did no better than fourth place, beaten six lengths, while Eoin Doyle’s Corway – a 14/1 outsider – ran on strongly to win by just under a length.
Sunday 14th JuneMeeting Continues with good attendance
Downpatrick’s second day of racing proved harder to predict than the first day. We began with a maiden hurdle (1.50), in which Gordon Elliott’s Sound Judgement was the Even money favourite. He was beaten, though, by Willie Mullins’ eventual winner – Surfin Usa – and a 250/1 shot; Acheron, who showed dramatically improved form for Shark Hanlon.
Charlie O’Dywer rode Surfin’ USA to a win in the Sunday opening maiden hurdle.
The next race, another maiden hurdle (2.20), was won by Gavin Cromwell’s well-backed In The Trenches. He beat the strongly fancied 5/6 market leader, Amina, who finished third, behind Euro Agent, who was third.
A mares handicap hurdle was next (2.50). The joint favourites on this occasion were Rockstown Girl, who finished third, and Radar Ahead, who unseated her rider at the first flight. In what was an open race, Henry De Bromhead’s She’s A Fine Wine became the winner by just half a length, with You Make Me Smile in second.
Race four was a handicap hurdle (3.20). Dermot McLoughlin celebrated his third winner of the weekend here, as Malbay Madness won well by four lengths, with 28/1 Bridgehead the runner-up, followed home by 50/1 outsider Yosemite Gold in third.
Malbay Madness with PJ O’Hanlon in charge
A rated novice hurdle followed (3.55). Mark McNiff’s Houndsworth was well-backed favourite at 16/5, but he weakened on the run-in, allowing Andrew Kinirons’Blue Moon Boy to become the winner by half a length to runner-up Sea Of Doubt. Maxwell Smart was third.
Second to last was a handicap hurdle (4.30). We had the most unlikely winner of the day here, as 20/1 apparent no-hoper Georginas Jet won by an incredible 10 lengths under Gavin Brouder. Bryson, one of the joint market leaders, was second, with the other joint favourite – Oh So Charming – finishing fifth.
The final race of the weekend was a mares’ bumper (5.05). Emmet Mullins’ Churchfield Annie was the only runner getting any attention in the betting, jumping off at 4/5, but she could do no better than third. Instead, Irish Lace won, followed closely by Goodgollymissholly.
A Downpatrtick family is delighted at the local occupational therapy team for helping autistic son to become independent
A young man (26) in Downpatrick who has autism is now living independently from his family thanks to the support from the support of the South Eastern Trust’s Occupational Therapy Team for helping him to achieve greater independence in his day-to-day life from his family.
Anne-Marie Kelly shared how her son Conor, now 26, was diagnosed with Autism at two and a half years old. From an early age,
Conor developed an aversion to the weather, especially a sensitivity to the wind and sound of heavy rain against his upstairs bedroom window at night.
Anne-Marie said: “Because of the weather in our country, it had a real impact on family life. Conor could not tolerate the sound of the rain on his bedroom window, this had a real impact on our family, as he could not sleep and would move from the bed to the floor throughout the night.
Anne-Marie Kelly with South Eastern Trust Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist, Disability Service, Karen Mahood
“Because he wasn’t sleeping, he would be too tired to attend his day care setting, and would not come downstairs. It was a very stressful time for everyone.”
Anne-Marie explained how the family engaged with the Trust’s Occupational Therapy Team to promote Conor’s independence, reduce his isolation and encourage a positive consistent daily routine.
She said: “Working with the Occupational Team was a real positive for us, for the family. We worked closely with Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapists, Karen Mahood and Ursula McCloskey from the Team and an adaptation for a downstairs bedroom for Conor was agreed.
“Karen pointed out things like sound proofing the room, making sure Conor had an ensuite and disability shower. All of this made a real difference.
“Conor has now taken ownership of his room, it is his. He really enjoys his time in his room and with sleeping, getting that rest he now goes to day care four days a week.”
Conor Kelly can now live independently.
“The Occupational Therapy Team have been absolutely brilliant. We, as a family, know that they are at the end of the phone for us. They have Conor’s best interest at heart, it has been such a steady, positive process for us.”
South Eastern Trust, Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist, Karen Mahood commented how the modification of creating a downstairs bedroom for Conor, saying: “Has enabled him to engage in his day-to-day activities.”
“As an Occupational Therapist, we understand the importance of the environment and how it can hinder or enable a Service User.
“Adaptations do not just focus solely on the physical needs, but also on the cognitive and sensory needs of a person.
“For Conor, any adaptation recommendations ensured that consideration was given around reducing the sound of the rain and the wind to support Conor to feel safe and secure in his own home and the positive impact and outcomes for Conor.
“Environmental adaptation can be an efficient and least restrictive means of reducing the impact of sensory challenges.
“Rather than attempting to change the person, the intervention focused on modifying the sensory demands within Conor’s environment to create conditions that supported regulation, safety and participation.”
Karen added: “When we reviewed the adaptation, the downstairs bedroom for Conor, we could really get a sense of how he has taken ownership of his space, sleeps better, takes less anxiety medication, is involved in many more day to day activities and has significantly more interaction with family members than before.
“Seeing the difference the adaptation has made for Conor and his family gives the Team a real sense of why we do our job, especially when we see how well the adaptation has worked for Conor and for his family.”
The Downpatrick Downshire Estate garden manager has received a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours
The South Eastern Trust is delighted to congratulate Victorian Garden Manager at the Downshire Estate, Clare McCawley, on being awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in The King’s Birthday Honours 2026 for services to healthcare, horticulture and the local community.
The prestigious honour recognises Clare’s exceptional contribution to the Downshire Estates Victorian Gardens, a unique green space that has become a sanctuary for patients, Service Users, staff and the wider community.
The garden supports health, wellbeing and recovery through nature.
The King’s Birthday Honours celebrate individuals who have made outstanding achievements and significant contributions to their communities and public service.
Clare McCawley, the Downshire Garden manager, has been awarded a BEM in the King’s Birthday honours.
Clare’s award reflects decades of dedication to creating and nurturing therapeutic outdoor spaces that promote inclusion, rehabilitation and mental wellbeing.
Since joining the Trust in 1996, Clare has played a key role in developing and maintaining the Victorian Gardens, working alongside former Consultant Psychiatrist Dr Colin Patton, whose vision was to create a garden that could be enjoyed by staff, patients and the wider community.
Speaking about receiving the honour, Clare said she felt both surprised and humbled, and added: “I joined the Trust in 1996 and I have been involved with the Victorian Gardens for more than 30 years.
“I have worked in partnership with the Northern Ireland Probation Board and the GP Federation to develop and maintain this special space.
“It is wonderful to have a garden that is accessible to staff, Service Users, community groups and local schoolchildren. Seeing so many people benefit from it is incredibly rewarding.
“We know that gardening can have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. The gardens provide an opportunity for people to connect with nature, spend time outdoors and learn more about the services available on site.
“The Trust has created a biodiverse space that can be enjoyed by everyone, patients, staff and the wider community.”
Describing the award as “a cause for celebration”, Clare said: “We would encourage as many groups as possible to come and use the gardens.
“It is wonderful to see staff and Service Users making the most of the space and benefiting from everything it has to offer. Here’s to the next 30 years!”
South Eastern Trust Director of Mental Health, Learning Disability, Healthcare in Prison and Psychological Services, Rachel Gibbs, said she was “truly delighted” to see Clare recognised in this way.
Rachel said, “Over many years, Clare has brought warmth, commitment and quiet determination to everything she does. She has created something very special at the Downshire Estate.
“It is a place where people feel genuinely welcome, valued and included, regardless of their circumstances.
“Clare has an incredible ability to connect with people, helping them build confidence, develop new skills and feel part of something meaningful.
“The Victorian Gardens are much more than a beautiful outdoor space, they are a living example of how nature, community and compassion can come together to support health and wellbeing.
“This honour is richly deserved and reflects the lasting impact Clare has had on countless individuals, families and community groups over many years. We are immensely proud of her achievement and delighted to see her dedication recognised at a National level.”
Five ukelele groups fundraise for Slieve Croob Community First Responders with a hooley at Turnip House near Leitrim
Five ukelele groups from around Down came together to raise vital funds for the Slieve Croob Community First Responders.
The ‘ukeahooley’ comprised an afternoon and evening of ukelele music from the Newcastle Ukes, Lecale Ukes, the crUkes (Crossgar), Castlewellan Ukes and Lisburn and Banbridge ukes.
In the rural setting and the relaxed atmosphere of Turnip house, the ukes chilled out and performed their toe-tapping
Paddy Rooney, who plays bass as in the Newcastle Ukes, said: “We got the idea back in January and came together to start organising the event.
Five ukelele groups came together to raise funds for the Slieve Croob Community First Responders at an event at Turnip House in Leitrim.
“We chose The Turnip House as it is a very relaxed venue and the hosts John and Elaine McComb are brilliant. We managed to get sponsorship from CWC, a local health-related company, and it all just took off from there.
“So we invited the five groups and it was very quickly a sell out! Everyone had a great time. And we have raised well over £3000 – once we get the raffle counted and tally up the funds, we will present the money to Loretta Bribben and her team at the Slieve Croob Community First Responders.
“This event has created a lot in interest among uke players and I’m sure there will be more events coming up in the future. So well done to everyone for their efforts and contributions that made this possible.”
Speaking just before the break for a light evening meal, Loretta Gribben, the founder of the Slieve Croob Community First Responders talked about her group.
She said: “My husband was a 57-year old bus driver and he loved a hooley and we would have danced to that sort of music the ukes are playing today.
“He died suddenly on 12th August and it took me several years to eventually get round to forming the first responders group.
“I am a nurse by profession. And I’m delighted that so far the responders have attended to 500 people with cardiac arrests – these were category 1 and 2 calls and we can be there in our area in 3 to 5 minutes mostly.
(l-r) Loretta Gribben, founder of the Slieve Croob Community First Responders, with volunteer Patricia Quinn at the Turnip House ukeahooley organised by 5 uke groups.
“We are now into our fourth year and have a base of 26 volunteers trained in defibrillator use. At the moment we have no plans for expansion. We run our operation 365 days a year 24/7 and cover an area of 106 square miles. Slieve Croob is very rural.
“So I am delighted at the achievements of the first responders so far. And now I am looking forward to joining the ukes and learning to play. I can’t sing a note but I’ll have to get a hat and flowers like everyone else and join in the craic.
“On behalf of the Slieve Croob Community First Responders, I’d like to thank everyone who has come along today and everyone who has made a contribution to our cause.”
The ukes enjoyed a light meal of flatbread with chilli beans or curry on cous cous. They then played on into the evening enjoying the good weather, the early summer evening, the company and the fabulous music.
Picture this: you’ve got this brilliant idea for an online course. Maybe it’s about photography, project management, or teaching people how to make the perfect sourdough starter. You’re excited. You can already see the course modules laid out perfectly, the video thumbnails looking professional, students leaving glowing reviews.
But here’s the thing. What if nobody actually wants what you’re planning to create?
The truth is, most course creators dive headfirst into building without checking if there’s actually demand for their idea. It’s like opening a restaurant without knowing if people in your neighbourhood even like that type of food. You might create something amazing, but if there’s no market for it, you’ve just spent months building something that won’t sell.
Why Validation Matters More Than You Think
Here’s what happens when you skip validation: you spend weeks or months creating content, recording videos, designing worksheets, setting up your course platform. Then you launch to… crickets. Maybe a few friends buy it out of loyalty, but that’s about it.
Validation isn’t just about avoiding failure. It’s about understanding what people actually struggle with and how they want those problems solved. Sometimes your original idea is close, but the angle is slightly off. Other times, you discover something completely different that your audience desperately needs.
Start With Real Conversations
The best way to validate a course idea? Talk to actual humans. I know, revolutionary concept.
But seriously, this is where most people go wrong. They send out surveys or post in Facebook groups asking vague questions like “Would you be interested in a course about X?” Of course people will say yes. It doesn’t cost them anything to be polite.
Instead, have real conversations. Ask people about their current challenges. Find out what they’ve already tried. Discover what’s frustrating them right now. Listen for the language they use to describe their problems. That’s gold for your marketing later.
Test Before You Build
Once you’ve talked to people and refined your idea, test it before building the full course. Create a simple outline or even just a detailed description of what the course would cover. Share it with potential students and see if they’d actually pay for it.
You could create a pre-sale page, run a small workshop, or offer one-on-one coaching on the topic first. The goal is to see if people will exchange money for your solution, not just express polite interest.
Actually, here’s something interesting that happened recently. A friend was planning a course on productivity for remote workers. Seemed like a sure thing, right? Everyone’s working from home these days. But when she started talking to people, she discovered they weren’t struggling with productivity systems. They were struggling with loneliness and maintaining work-life boundaries. Completely different course needed.
Look for Existing Demand
Sometimes validation is as simple as looking around. Are people already asking questions about your topic in online forums? Are there books selling well on the subject? Do competitors exist, and are they successful?
Competition isn’t a bad thing. It usually means there’s a market. The question is whether you can offer something different or better, or serve a specific subset of that market.
Social media can be brilliant for this. Search for hashtags related to your topic. See what people are complaining about or asking for help with. Join groups where your potential students hang out. Just listen for a while.
The Small Experiment Approach
You don’t need to validate with hundreds of people. Start small. Find ten people who represent your ideal student and really understand their needs. Create a simple version of your solution and see how they respond.
Maybe it’s a free mini-course, a live workshop, or even just a detailed email series. The format matters less than whether people engage and find value in what you’re offering.
If those ten people love it and are asking for more, you’re onto something. If they’re lukewarm or give you feedback that your solution doesn’t quite hit the mark, you’ve just saved yourself months of work.
The thing about course creation is that it’s not really about having the perfect idea from day one. It’s about finding a real problem that real people have, and then creating something that genuinely helps them solve it. When you nail that combination, marketing becomes so much easier because you’re offering something people actually want.
For those ready to turn their validated ideas into reality, platforms like Learning Cloud online courses provide the tools needed to build and launch professional online courses that truly serve their audience.
MJM Marine Targets Record Support for Cancer Focus NI at Annual Golf Day
MJM Marine has officially launched its 2026 Charity Golf Day, with more than 130 golfers and 55 sponsors expected to take part in support of Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.
The event will take place at Warrenpoint Golf Club on Friday 3rd July 2026. It will bring together clients, suppliers and industry partners from across Ireland, the UK and further afield for a day of fundraising and networking.
To mark the launch of the Golf Day, MJM Marine welcomed Eoin Caughey, Fundraising Officer with Cancer Focus NI, to its headquarters in Newry. The visit provided an opportunity to highlight the partnership and recognise the support already received from sponsors ahead of the event.
Chris Rodgers, Chief Financial Officer at MJM Marine, said: “The support for this year’s Golf Day has been outstanding. We are delighted to have 55 sponsors involved and to welcome golfers from across Ireland/the UK, and beyond.
Pictured at the launch of MJM Marine’s Annual Golf Day are Mary Payne, MJM Marine, Social Health & Wellbeing Committee, Eoin Caughey, Fundraising Officer, Cancer Focus NI, MJM’s Charity Partner of the Year and Paula McDermott, HR Manager, MJM Marine.
“Like many organisations, cancer has touched the lives of people across our business and our wider community. Supporting Cancer Focus NI is something our team feels strongly about.
“The Golf Day is a fantastic opportunity to bring people together, raise vital funds and support the important work the charity carries out every day.”
Cancer Focus NI provides care and support services for cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland. The charity also delivers prevention, research and awareness programmes.
Elizabeth O’Connor, Director of People and Governance at MJM Marine, added: “Our Charity of the Year partnership is about making a meaningful difference. We are proud to support Cancer Focus NI and the work they do for individuals and families across Northern Ireland.
“Our employees have fully embraced the partnership and the Golf Day is one of the highlights of our fundraising calendar.
“I would like to thank our Social, Health and Wellbeing Committee for their work on the event. We are grateful to every sponsor, golfer and supporter who has chosen to get involved.”
Funds raised from the event will help support Cancer Focus NI’s services across Northern Ireland.
• MJM Marine is a global marine outfitting company headquartered in Newry, Northern Ireland.
DAERA Minister welcomes Met Office experts to present evidence on climate change
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has welcomed an event organised with the Met Office on the science and evidence behind climate change.
Leading experts from the Met Office were in Stormont to highlight the importance of deploying science and evidence to understand and respond to cl_imate change and its impacts globally and in Northern Ireland.
At the event jointly hosted by DAERA in Parliament Buildings, the Met Office presented the latest data and analysis on projected climate trends, including the anticipated local impacts of a warming climate on infrastructure, public health and the natural environment.
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir is pictured attending a Met Office climate change event at Parliament Buildings. Pictured (left to right) with Minister Muir is DAERA Permanent Secretary Katrina Godfrey, Met Office representatives Tom Crocker and Jason Lowe, DAERA Deputy Secretary Jane Corderoy and DAERA Official Claire Cockerill.
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has welcomed an event organised with the Met Office on the science and evidence behind climate change.
Minister Muir told those who attended the event: “Today is about evidence – independent scientific evidence on how our climate is changing.
“Climate change is not a distant challenge it is already having real and measurable impacts across Northern Ireland.
“The Met Office’s world-leading expertise helps us to understand future climate scenarios and the risks we face, from increased flooding and more frequent extreme weather events to rising temperatures and sea levels.
“It is vital that we continue to base our decisions on the best available evidence so that we can protect our communities, support our economy and safeguard our natural environment for future generations.
“There is a clear and urgent need to act.
“The scientific evidence presented today reinforces the importance of progressing the actions within our Third Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme to build our resilience, publishing our first Climate Action Plan and advancing wider climate policies.”
Attendees heard about the specific challenges facing Northern Ireland’s agriculture sector, with changing weather patterns, prolonged wet periods and increasing temperatures expected to have significant implications for our agri-food sector.
The Minister added: “Addressing climate change requires collective effort. With Government, businesses, communities and individuals all having a vital role to play in building resilience and delivering a sustainable future for Northern Ireland.”
Professor Jason Lowe OBE, Met Office Principal Fellow Applied & Climate Science, said: “The role of the Met Office is to provide the very best climate intelligence through world leading science, enabling decision makers, business and individuals to make evidence-based decisions in response to the challenges of our changing climate.
“The evidence is clear that our climate is changing, and we know that reducing our greenhouse gas emissions will help prevent the very worst impacts of climate change.
“However, it is also critical to adapt to the changes we’re going to see, and an evidence-based approach to assessing the risks will help ensure the most effective action is taken.”
The session included a question-and-answer panel, providing participants with the opportunity to engage directly with experts and explore the evidence in greater depth.
The event forms part of ongoing work by DAERA to raise awareness of the impacts of climate change and support informed, evidence-based action across all sectors.
