Youth Service Funding In Danger Say Politicians

Jim Masson
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Youth Service Funding In Danger Say Politicians

Education Minister Paul Givan is under attack from local politicians for creating insecurity in Youth Service funding as he changes the method by which the service will be funded

• Mason questions Education Minister’s reasoning over youth service funding

• Galbraith raises concerns over long-term youth service funding uncertainty.

Education Minister Paul Givan is under attack from local South Down politicians who claim that his realignment of finances that were previously ringfenced for Youth Services will in the future now be subject to competition from other services under the Education budget.

Cathy Mason, Sinn Féin Education spokesperson, and SDLP Downpatrick Councillor Conor Galbraith have both attacked the Minister for creating uncertainty and insecurity within the Youth Service which provides a valuable pillar in youth development and building a healthy society in South Down and across Northern Ireland.

NI Education Minister Paul Givan is being questioned by local South Down politicians as to why he has they claim made the youth service less secure and certain.

Down News is awaiting a response from the Education Authority and will post it as soon as it arrives.

The response update: A Department of Education spokesperson said: “The Education Authority will continue to receive funding to deliver both schools and youth services. Moving to a composite block grant simply brings youth funding into line with other established education budget processes.

“This gives the EA the flexibility to make appropriate, evidence‑based decisions, while all spending remains subject to policy, legislation and Departmental oversight.”

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Paul Givan’s ‘reckless’ changes to how youth services are funded must be stopped says Mason

Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has called on the Education Minister to step back from the ‘reckless’ changes he has made to how funding for youth services is allocated. Previously, the Department of Education set aside a separate pot of funding for youth services, but this will now form part of the Education Authority’s wider budget.

The South Down MLA said: “Youth services like the Patrician in Downpatrick are invaluable to our children and young people, giving them a safe space away to build skills, confidence, and resilience.

Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason pictured outside the Patrician Youth Centre in Downpatrick.

“Despite this, Education Minister Paul Givan is pushing ahead with reckless changes that will heap even more pressure on already stretched organisations and workers.

“These will force vital youth services to compete with other Education Authority responsibilities, with no guarantee that the current level of funding will be maintained.

“As well as this, Paul Givan’s department has only provided community and voluntary groups with a guarantee of funding for the first four months of this financial year.

“Before serious harm is done, the minister must step back from this approach and begin treating our youth organisations with the respect they deserve.”

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Galbraith Expresses His Concerns About The Future Of Youth Service Funding

SDLP Downpatrick Councillor Conor Galbraith who is a youth worker at the Patrician Youth Centre in Downpatrick has raised serious concerns about the Education Minister’s current approach to youth services funding, warning it could lead to further cuts and significant harm to young people and communities.

Downpatrick Councillor Connor Galbraith who works as a Community Youth Worker in Downpatrick is concerned at the Education Miniister’s decision to include the Youth Service in a competitive environment for finances.

Councillor Galbraith’s comments follow confirmation that funding for youth services has only been secured until June, with money no longer ring-fenced and at risk of being diverted elsewhere within the education budget.

The move has prompted concerns across the sector, particularly among voluntary organisations already dealing with years of sustained financial pressure.

SDLP Councillor Conor Galbraith said: “As someone who has worked in youth services for over 20 years, I have seen first-hand the growing impact of repeated cuts on the ground.

“The voluntary youth sector has been asked to do more with less for years, and it is now at breaking point.

“Here in Downpatrick, youth services play a vital role in supporting young people. They provide safe spaces, guidance and opportunities that many rely on every day.

“The approach being taken risks creating further uncertainty and could lead to a reduction in services at a time when they are needed most.

“It is young people in our community who will ultimately feel the consequences of these decisions.

“I will be writing to the Education Minister Paul Givan to outline the impact these cuts are having locally and to call for clarity and proper support to protect these vital services.”

Downpatrick SDLP Councillor Conor Galbraith is a youth worker at the Patrician Youth Centre. He is pictured standing beside the statue of ‘young Patrick’. I wonder what St Patrick the adult would have done in the Minister’s shoes ?

Shannon Attends Comber Neurodiversity Event

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Shannon Attends Comber Neurodiversity Event

Neurodiversity UK event held in Comber

Strangford MP Jim Shannon has thanked Lesley Neill, Chair of Northern Ireland chapter of Neurodiversity UK for the event held on Friday 20th March in Comber.

Jim Shannon MP has said: “I was delighted to be invited to Neuro-inclusive Allies Celebratory Event.

“This programme was delivered with the support of The Executive Office, The Change Trust, and Ards and North Down Council, and focused on engaging young neuro-divergent men and women in the movement to End Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG).

“This was an initiative that was part of the Power to Change programme. The event was designed to reflect on what we’ve learned, and to celebrate the commitment of everyone involved.”

(l-r) Nick Mathison MLA, Jim Shannon MP, Lesley Neill, chair of the Neuro-Inclusive charity, Michelle McIlveen MLA and Cllr Richard Smart pictured at a Neuro-inclusive Allies Celebratory Event held in Comber.

Mr Shannon added: “It was great to be at the event and to get an understanding of the work that has been going on for some time now and which is starting to make changes in how we can improve and bring an end to violence.

“My sincere thanks to Lesley and the team for all of their hard work and for the great information shared today.”

Speaking at today’s end of programme event, Neurodiversity UK’s Chair, Lesley Neill recognised the role all of have in bringing an end to violence against women and girls.

She said: “Ending violence against women and girls is not the responsibility of a few, but a collective duty shared by all of us across society.

“Through our Neuro-Inclusive Allies for Change project, we have seen the power of understanding, inclusion and education in challenging harmful behaviours and attitudes.

“With the valued support of Ards & North Down Council, The Executive Office and the Local Change Fund, we have taken important step, but there is more to do. Each of us has an obligation to act, to speak out, and to help break the cycle for good.”

(l-r) Nick Mathison MLA, Jim, Lesley Neill chair of the charity, Michelle McIlveen MLA and Cllr Richard Smart.

North Down Marquees Takes Over Table 10

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North Down Marquees Takes Over Table 10

North Down Marquees acquires local event and catering hire firm Table 10

One of Northern Ireland’s premium events suppliers North Down Marquees, based in Carryduff, has acquired local events and catering company Table 10 in a move set to strengthen its presence in the events and hospitality market.

The deal marks a significant step forward for the business with ambitious growth plans for its North Down Event & Cater Hire division.

Table 10, previously based in Bangor, specialises in event and cater equipment hire for weddings, private functions and corporate occasions and has built a strong reputation over the past 16 years delivering a high-quality service to its customer base.

Pictured (l-r) are Carl Woodland, Alana-June McCoy, Nigel Boyd, and Mark Strain, Manager at North Down Event & Cater Hire.

Following the deal, North Down Marquees will take on its existing customers, allowing them to add value and extend services through its expanding event and cater hire division.

With a team of 34 staff, North Down Marquees, part of the Eventus group based in Galway, has been an established and well-respected business within the events and hospitality sector providing ‘one stop shop’ services for over 40 years.

Mark Strain, Manager at North Down Event & Cater Hire said: “We’re excited to welcome Table 10 to the business. We’ve worked with the incredible team led by Nigel & AJ for many years.

“Table 10 have an exceptional reputation within the sector, so this feels like a natural fit for us as our event and cater hire division continues to grow.

“The acquisition forms part of our wider growth plans which has also seen us focus on creating smarter, greener events that have sustainability at their hearts.

(l-r): Carl Woodland, Alana-June McCoy, Nigel Boyd, and Mark Strain, Manager at North Down Event & Cater Hire after the acquision of Table 10 by North Down Marquees.

The acquisition will leverage both customer bases within the businesses allowing the team to upscale and extend operations, helping drive growth whilst continuing to deliver a top-quality service.”

Nigel Boyd and Alana-June McCoy of Table 10 added: “We are pleased that the North Down Marquees team is now at the helm of Table 10.

“It has been a labour of love for us over the years, and we are confident that their combined experience, knowledge, and high-end service delivery will be fundamental in driving the business forward.

“As we step aside, we do so with great appreciation and excitement for what’s to come for North Down Marquees and the North Down Event & Cater Hire division.

“We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved over the past 16 years and are deeply grateful to our customers who have been a part of this journey.”

L-r are Mark Strain, Manager at North Down Event & Cater Hire, Alana-June McCoy and Nigel Boyd of Table 10 and Carl Woodland, General Manager at North Down Marquees.

Separately, North Down Event and Cater hire has recently introduced its reuseable event cup, becoming the largest sustainable cup supplier in Northern Ireland.

The initiative has already replaced disposable alternatives at major venues including the SSE Arena, ICC Belfast and the National stadium and will also be in place at the upcoming the Balmoral Show in May, with ambitious plans to further expand this area of the business throughout 2026.

Image 1: Pictured L-R: Mark Strain, Manager at North Down Event & Cater Hire, Alana-June McCoy and Nigel Boyd of Table 10 and Carl Woodland, General Manager at North Down Marquees.

Image 2: Pictured L-R – Carl Woodland, Alana-June McCoy, Nigel Boyd, and Mark Strain, Manager at North Down Event & Cater Hire.

Dromara Beat Comber Rec In League Clash

Jim Masson
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Dromara Beat Comber Rec In League Clash

Dromara Village in good form as they beat Comber Rec in an NAFL Premier League clash

The NAFL,

Premier League Match,

Venue: Bellsbridge, 21st March 2026,

Final Score: Dromara Village 3 Comber Rec 1.

On paper this looked to be a closer match that it turned out to be but Comber didn’t take advantage of the goal opportunties that presented and they missed a few. Just a bad day at the office for the visitors writes Jim Masson.

Comber did press forward early and after 7 minutes won a penalty with the pressure they exerted. Dylan Wilson stepped up to the spot and slightly underhit the ball and keeper Oisin McStay got his hand to it as it travelled low to the left and blocked it.

Wilson then made a cross to Matthew Gibson whose shot hit the side net. And Kris Gaw managed to fire in a couple of shot at the Dromara goal but he was probably just to far from goal and McStay held them safely.

Minutes later Comber gave away a penalty as Dromara pressed forward and Brendan Tumilty made no mistake hitting the top right hand corner of the net giving keeper Corey Pollock no chance of saving it in the 10th minute.

Wilson then charged the goal again and this time McStay made three quick saves to keep the ball out of his net.

Callum Bradley attacks for Dromara.

James Sofley got into the act too attacking the Dromara goal but the striker was fresh out of luck in this match.

Dromara’s Benjamin McKeown made an excellent clearance as Wilson attacked again.

The Dromara defence were playing well keeping the Comber attacks at bay. The game did get a bit physical and both Simon Hanna and Lex Walker were taken down as Comber tried to press forward.

Dylan Wilson wasn’t having a great day as one of his volleys went off target and this was followed by shots from Chris Murray and Elliot Wilson.

Check out Down News Action Photos On Facebook

Dromara were pressing forward too in this see-sawing match and at one stage as Comber pushed forward Dromara defender Jordan Clarke make an excellent clearance.

Some players got frustrated at the lack of goals given their constant efforts and tempers did get heated.

With just 4 minutes into the second half, Nathan Hamilton crossed to Callum Bradley who ran at the Comber goal, and Pollock came racing out to close him down. Bradley’s shot came off the keeper and he then tapped it into the goal to put Dromara 2 goals up.

Dromara made a couple of quick breaks and on one occasion James Costello volleyed on target at the Comber goal but the ball ricocheted off Pollock for a corner.

Sub Dylan Donaldson scored the only goal for Comber Rec after he came on in the 72nd minute to replace Kris Gaw. (Photos by Jim Masson/DownNews©).

Dylan Donaldson replaced Kris Gaw and on 77 minutes to scored for Comber close in to the Dromara goal.

Dromara were resilient and bounced back and Bradley made a great drive but it was well held by keeper Pollock.

As the game progressed Comber seemed to be pressing more to find that equaliser and one move saw Dylan Wilson crossing to Chris Murray but his shot was well blocked. Wilson was constantly trying to weasel his way through the Dromara defence.

In one attack, Murray attempted an overhead kick from just inside the back of the Dromara box but it was just held by keeper McStay, a great creative effort all the same.

Check out Down News Action Photos On Facebook

Then Dylan Donaldson passed to James Sofley who tried to chip the ball over the keeper but just was inches on the wrong side of the post.

Then, on a break in the 85th minute, Bradley struck again with a long ball from the right beating keeper Pollock.

Dromara Vilklage forward jkames Costello in action with Comber’s Lex Walker.

With 5 minutes to the 90 minutes left and a couple of minutes extra time, Comber had run out of runway. Dromara stepped up the pressure on the visitors ensuring they did not get a chance to steal a last minute goal and then nick an equaliser.

Dromara had brought a lot of energy to their game, and played well testing Comber out time after time.

In the past six games since the start of February, Dromara Village have come into form with 4 wins and 2 draws. However, it has been a different back end of the season for Comber Rec who have lost four, drawn one and won one in their last six matches.

Check out Down News Action Photos On Facebook

Dromara Village: 1 Oisin McStay (GK) 2 Jordan Clarke 3 Ben Hanna 4 Mark Burke 5 Benjamin McKeown 6 Desmond McCartan 7 Brendan Tumelty 8 Nathan Hamilton 9 James Costello 10 Kealan Morgan 11 Callum Bradley. Subs: 12 Matthew McCandless 14 Shay McGrattan 15 Gary Stranney.

Comber Rec: 1 Corey Pollock 2 Matthew Gibson 3 Brandon Nelson 4 Stuart Moore 5 Lex Walker 6 Kris Gaw 7 Dylan Wilson 8 Simon Hanna 9 James Sofley 10 Chris Murray 11 Elliot Wilson.Subs: 12 Dylan Donaldson 14 Sam Moore 15 Dylan Thompson.

Strangford FC Win Kitroom Cup In Style

Jim Masson
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Strangford FC Win Kitroom Cup In Style

Strangford FC Were Too Sharp For Ardglass FC in the Kitroom Cup Final Local Derby Showdown

Despite puting up a strong bid for the Kitroom Cup, Ardglass FC were ousted by a more determined and focused Strangford side that has impressed much of late and were worthy winners of the silver writes Jim Masson.

The Newcastle and District Amateur Football League,

The Kitroom Cup Final,

Venue: Roberet Adams 3G PArk, on Saturday 21st March 2026,

Final Score: Strangford 5 1 Ardglass FC.

Strangford FC proved to be the most effective side on the night showing an eagerness and focus through most of the game which unsettled Ardglass’ style of play. This local derby was played at a fast pace and at time, especially in the second half, tackles were on the heavy side writes Jim Masson.

From the first whistle, Strangford came back after an initial Ardglass charge at their goal area. The match swung to and fro with both teams whipping up and down the pitch. Michael Magee almost took advantage of a weak clearance by Sttangford keeper Padraig Sloan

Strangford FC are the the Kitroom Cup champions, beating Ardglass 5-1 on Saturday 21st March in the final at Robert Adams 3g pitch in Crossgar. (Photos by Jim Masson / DownNews ©.)

Ardglass forward Karl O’Neill was almost through for a shot at goal but was impeded by two Strangford defenders.

At the other end Conal Fitzsimmons, a significant threat to Ardglass, was warming up with charges at the Ardglass goal and on one occasion keeper James Crangle just managed to get out to clear the ball as Fitzsimmons closed in. He was positioning himself mostly at the back of the Ardglass box receiving crosses from right and left.

In the 17th minute it was Ardglass who drew first blood when John Beattie hit the ball sharply close in to the Strangford goal to open the scoring and it seemed as though Ardglass maybe could surmount the Strangford challenge by lying back and breaking.

Owen Curran equalised on 37 minutes for Strangford when a long kick to the Ardglass goalmouth saw a scramble between the teams and a poor clearance which led to a cross from the right to Owen Curran who made no mistake at close quarters hammering the ball in to the Ardglass net and equalising.

Strangford’s Conan Hynds receives his Player of the Match Award from Gerry Armstrong, former NI international player and brand ambassador for Pro Solar NI Ltd, after beating Ardglass FC in the Kitroom final at Robert Adams Park.

See Match Action Photos on Down News Facebook

Both teams were expending a huge amount of energy in the fast paced-game. Michael Magee made a good effort to score as he received a cross from Jamie McDerby but Sloan was on the ball.

As the teams went toe to toe, Strangford’s Conal Fitzsimmons crossed to Owen Curran who hit just wide of the Ardglass post and Ardglass knew this match wa snot going to be a walk in the park as Strangford pressed further.

The second half started again at a fast pace and Ardglass were living dangerously as Strangford were getting closer to the scoring area on a number of occasions.

Malachy Crangle was not in the squad for this match and his presence in the back line was probably missed.

Jordan Finnegan managed to connect with a decent header on target but keeper Sloan read it well.

Neither side could get the ball in the net as both defences scrambled to clear. It looked as though the match was bordering on a penalty shootout.

The Stranford FC scorers: Owen Curran (1), Conan Fitzsimmons (3), and Like Shields (1),

Then Luca Shields put Strangford in the lead on the 69th minute and it was game on for Strangford.

Strangford pressure at the Ardglass goal increased and saw a shot bounce off defender Ryan McKinney for an own goal /(82 minutes) shattering any chance of a comeback from the seasiders under pressure at 3-1.

But it was Conal Fitzsimmons who eventually scored from a penalty after Ardglass were buckling under pressure. Strangford now had the advantage on 4-1.

See Match Action Photos on Down News Facebook

They forged ahead quickly again deep into the Ardglass half and sub Jack Fitzsimmons lashed a volley on target but it was well held by keeper Crangle.

The final blow came from Strangford captain Fitzsimmons as he hammered in the coffin nail on the 85th minute securing his hat-trick when sub James Shields ran on and crossed to the Ardglass goal area where Fitzsimmons found space to collect the ball and knock in for the fourth goal leaving the score at 5-1.

There were a number of corners and free kick at the Strangford end but Ardglass did not manage to rise to the occasion despite several good efforts. The Strangford defence were in excellent form.

Strangford FC: 1 Padraig Sloan (GK)2 Stefan McGrattan 4 Thomas Fitzsimmons 5 Fionn McFall 6 Shane Teggart 7 Conan Hynds 8 Paul Donnelly 9 Conal Fitzsimmons (C) 10 Owen Curran 11 Conall Black 12 Luc Tolan. Subs: 3 James Shields 14 Jack Fitzsimmons 15 Luke Shields 16 Patrick Sharvin 17 Odhran McKenna.

Ardglass: FC: 1 James Crangle (GK) 2 Dára O’Shea 3 Ryam McKinney 4 Caolain O’Shea 5 Shea Dorrian 6 Pabhraig O’Shea 7 Jamie McDarby 8 Jordan Finnegan 9 Michael Magee 10 Karl O’Neill 11 John Beattie. 12 Corey Mahon 14 Aidan Watson 15 Sean Carr 16 LJ Holland 16 Matthew Rooney.

See Match Action Photos on Down News Facebook

3G Pitch Planned For Jennings Park In Newry

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3G Pitch Planned For Jennings Park In Newry

NMD Council Plans Advance for Multi-Sport 3G Pitch at Newry’s Jennings Park

A new 3G pitch in Newry has taken a significant step forward and could be on the cards as Newry Mourne and Down District Council plan for a multi-sport facility at Jennings Park.

The Council is to submit a bid for financial support to the Northern Ireland Football Fund’s Grassroots Facilities Programme Stream 2 to pave the way for the exciting new facility.

A formal planning application has already been lodged for the new 3G surface that will replace existing grass pitches with two soccer pitches and one full-size GAA pitch.

The development will be jointly funded by the Council and the Football Fund’s Grassroots Facilities Programme, if the bid for financial assistance is successful, with the proposal including floodlighting, ball-stop fencing, drainage, perimeter paths and associated works.

A decision to submit a bid for financial support – which must be lodged by 26 April – was taken at a meeting of the Council’s Active and Healthy Communities Committee on 16 March and has to be formally ratified by the full Council when it meets next month.

A new 3G multi-sport facility is planned for Jennings Park in Newry. (Image: computer generated).

The proposed development will cater for football, Gaelic games and rugby and significantly increase the time the new pitch can be used, helping reduce cancellations due to poor weather conditions which impact on the current grass surface, rendering it unplayable at times.

The significant shortfall in access to synthetic sports facilities within the Newry District Electoral Area (DEA) was highlighted in the Council’s wide-ranging sports facilities strategy and multi-sport hub strategic review.

An examination of current provision revealed a shortfall of around 40 hours per week of football training capacity in the Newry area, with existing facilities unable to meet current demand from clubs and community users.

Council consultations with sports clubs indicated that demand across football and GAA equated to over 80 hours of weekly training need, demonstrating a significant gap between available facilities and existing participation levels.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “This is a very exciting development that will cater for a range of sports as the synthetic surface will not be deemed unplayable in poor weather.

“The floodlit facility will ensure sustained use during the winter months and the new surface will be a real asset to the sports community in the Newry area.

“Most significantly, the new pitch will provide a reliable all-weather facility, capable of supporting year-round training and match preparation.”

Cllr Campbell said given its location close to Newry Leisure Centre where parking, changing facilities, toilets and accessibility features are available, the Jennings Park investment will support a wide network of sports clubs.

He added: “This proposal will provide Newry with a superb sports pitch facility and represents a welcome investment in the future for many clubs who will be able to use Jennings Park more than ever before.”

Cllr Campbell said that in addition to increased playing time and reliability, the 3G sports pitch will provide improved access to training for clubs and community groups.

“Football, GAA and rugby clubs can use the new 3G surface which paves the way for increased participation in sport and physical activity which is good for everyone, leading to improved health and wellbeing outcomes in the community and supporting the Council’s wider sports development objectives.”

Currently, 24 football teams, including ladies’ sides and eight GAA Clubs, operate within the wider catchment area, utilising facilities within the Newry area.

The Council said that collectively, the sports teams and clubs represent over 800 active sports members, highlighting the scale of participation and the need for improved sports infrastructure to support training and match preparation.

Infrastructure Committee Meets in Downpatrick

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Infrastructure Committee Meets in Downpatrick

Assembly Infrastructure Committee meets in St Patrick Centre in Downpatrick

The NI Assemblt Infrastructure Committee met in the St Patrick Centre on Wednesday 18th Marcht listen to local testimonies over the flood in Downpatrick in early November 2023.

• McMurray welcomes flood bill evidence from residents and businesses.

South Down Alliance MLA Andrew McMurray has welcomed evidence provided by two South Down resident and business groups during an Infrastructure Committee session at the St Patrick’s Centre in Downpatrick. 

The evidence session was scheduled to inform the Committee’s scrutiny of the Water, Sustainable Drainage and Flood Management Bill, which is currently making its way through the Assembly. 

At the St Patrick Centre in Downpatrick ready to attend the Assembly Infrastructure meeting were (l-r) South Down MLA Andrew McMurray with members of the Newcastle Concerned Residents Group, Gareth Jones, Sheila Maginn and Sam Anderson.  

Mr McMurray said: “It was good to have representatives from Newcastle Concerned Residents Group and Downpatrick Regeneration Group in attendance to present to the Infrastructure Committee.

“They were able to make their points on the proposed legislation, as well as their ongoing concern in relation to the unresolved issue of flooding in both towns.

“The trauma of seeing their homes and business premises flooded was well articulated by those who had first hand experience of it.

“Unresolved issues remain in both towns. Downpatrick lives in fear of another event with no alleviation measures yet progressed.

“Newcastle residents remain concerned at a lack of progress on a permanent solution, with minor flooding events still occurring in the town.

“The Committee noted the issues raised in relation to the proposed legislation and will take them into account in preparing its response. 

“It was also agreed that the Committee would collate the wider concerns raised by residents and business representatives and write to the Minister for Infrastructure on their behalf.

“While the proposed legislation is to be welcomed, its remit is very limited.

“There are still many flood-related issues to be addressed by the Department and its arms-length bodies that are not covered by this bill and it is imperative that solutions are developed on these issues without delay.”

A chilling reminder of the scene in Downpatrick in early November 2023 as the town centre flooded. The lack of progress to finding solutions has been noted.

•••

The Department of Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins is expected to announce in April what flood alleviation plans are to be put in place to address the flooding in Downpatrick.

The 64,000 dollar question is: can the Assembly progress the business through the Executive before the election to get flood alleviation in place by 2027 when a new programme of government will need to be set ?

If not, it could end up like the Ballynahinch by-pass, much needed and much kicked down the road in the list of government priorities.

Council Invites Traders To Markets’ Initiative

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Council Invites Traders To Markets’ Initiative

NMD Council Invites Traders to Apply for 2026 Artisan Markets’ Initiative

Newry Mourne and Down District Council is inviting artists, makers, food producers and creative enterprises to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to take part in its Artisan Markets Programme for 2026.

Running across key locations within the district in Newcastle, Downpatrick and Warrenpoint, the Artisan Markets bring together high‑quality local producers, creators and small businesses, offering them an opportunity to showcase their work, reach new customers and contribute to thriving town centres.

The Council also welcomes applications from local food trucks and mobile catering businesses, including those offering tea, coffee, ice cream and other high‑quality food and drink produce. 

Downpatrick artisan market: are you interested in a stall ?

An Expression of Interest process is currently open and closes on 31 March 2026. All potential traders must complete an EOI form in order to be considered for participation in any Council‑run Artisan Market throughout the coming year.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “Artisan markets play a vital role in supporting small businesses, stimulating footfall and celebrating the creativity that exists across our district.

“These markets bring our towns and villages to life and we are delighted to once again open our doors to talented makers, producers and traders who want to be part of this growing initiative.

There are stalls available at the Warrenpoint Artisan Market.

“We encourage both new and returning traders to submit an Expression of Interest during the application window.”

“The Artisan Markets Initiative offers participants access to high‑visibility trading opportunities supported by Council promotion, themed events and marketing activity.

“This includes social media campaigns, on‑site branding, cross‑promotion with town‑centre initiatives and opportunities to take part in special seasonal markets.

While submitting an Expression of Interest does not guarantee a trading space, applicants will be assessed based on product quality, sector variety, geographic spread and the overall balance needed to create a vibrant market experience.

The Expression of Interest form can be found on the Council’s website at:
www.newrymournedown.gov.uk/artisan‑markets

Alternatively, traders can contact the Council’s Business Support team at:
[email protected]

How Weight Loss Injection Treatments Are Changing the Conversation Around Obesity

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How Weight Loss Injection Treatments Are Changing the Conversation Around Obesity

Obesity treatment in the UK has historically focused on lifestyle interventions such as dietary adjustments, increased physical activity, and behavioural support. Over the past few years, the introduction of new prescription medicines has altered how clinicians and patients discuss treatment pathways. Medications originally developed for diabetes management are now approved for weight management in specific circumstances.

This article explains how newer weight-loss injections are shaping discussions around obesity care in the UK. It outlines how these medicines are prescribed, which regulatory frameworks apply, and how treatment pathways differ between NHS and private services.

Photo by Siora Photography on Unsplash

How New Injectable Treatments Are Being Introduced into UK Weight Management Care

Recent years have seen increased availability of injectable medications designed to regulate appetite and metabolic function. One example is Mounjaro, a medicine containing tirzepatide that acts on hormone receptors involved in blood sugar control and appetite signalling.

These treatments are commonly referred to as weight-loss injections because they are administered once weekly using a prefilled pen device. The medicines are prescribed alongside structured lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments and increased physical activity.

Clinicians may consider prescribing weight-loss injections for adults who meet defined clinical criteria. In many cases, eligibility depends on body mass index thresholds and whether a patient has health conditions associated with excess weight. These prescribing decisions are guided by national regulatory approvals and clinical guidelines.

The Role of Medicines Such as Mounjaro in Obesity Treatment Pathways

Medicines like Mounjaro injections represent a newer category of weight management treatments. Tirzepatide works by activating two hormone pathways that influence appetite and glucose metabolism.

Under UK regulatory approval, prescribing typically applies to adults with:

  • A body mass index of 30 kg/m² or higher
  • A body mass index of 27 kg/m² or higher when accompanied by weight-related health conditions

These conditions may include high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or elevated cholesterol levels.

Healthcare professionals usually prescribe these medicines as part of a broader management plan. Dietary advice, increased physical activity, and ongoing monitoring are commonly included in treatment programmes. Prescribers may also review medical history, current medications, and previous weight management attempts before initiating treatment.

How NHS and Private Prescribing Pathways Differ

Access to weight-loss injections in the UK can be obtained through both NHS and private healthcare.

Within the NHS, access is determined by national guidance and local commissioning policies. Eligibility may depend on body mass index thresholds, the presence of related medical conditions, and whether previous lifestyle interventions have been attempted. Some patients may be referred to specialist weight management services before medication is prescribed.

Private healthcare providers may offer consultations through clinics or regulated online pharmacies. These consultations typically involve a medical questionnaire, review of health history, and assessment by a registered prescribing clinician.

Both pathways require that prescriptions be issued by appropriately regulated healthcare professionals. Pharmacies supplying medication must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council, and prescribing clinicians must hold relevant professional registration.

Safety Monitoring and Prescribing Requirements

Prescribing injectable medicines for weight management requires careful clinical oversight. Before treatment begins, clinicians typically assess factors such as:

  • Weight and body mass index
  • Blood pressure
  • Medical history and existing health conditions
  • Current medications

For some patients, additional blood tests may be performed depending on their health profile.

Treatment with Mounjaro injections generally begins at a lower weekly dose. The dosage may be gradually increased if tolerated. This stepwise approach helps clinicians monitor how patients respond to treatment and whether side effects occur.

Common early side effects may include nausea, diarrhoea, or reduced appetite. These symptoms often occur during initial dose adjustments. Healthcare providers usually advise patients to report any unexpected reactions so treatment can be reviewed.

In the UK, suspected side effects from medicines can be reported through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. This national pharmacovigilance system collects safety data to monitor medicines after approval.

Why These Treatments Are Influencing Public and Clinical Discussions

The introduction of medicines such as Mounjaro has broadened conversations about obesity management. Historically, treatment discussions often centred on lifestyle interventions alone. Injectable medicines introduce an additional option that may be considered within structured weight management plans.

These developments have also prompted greater attention to regulatory oversight and prescribing safeguards. Healthcare providers must ensure that patients meet eligibility criteria and receive appropriate monitoring during treatment.

Public awareness of obesity as a medical condition has also increased as new treatment options become available. As a result, discussions about long-term weight management now often involve a wider range of clinical approaches.

What This Means for People Exploring Weight Management Options

People considering medical weight management treatments may encounter different pathways depending on where they seek care. Eligibility criteria, consultation procedures, and monitoring requirements all form part of the prescribing process.

Understanding how injectable medicines are regulated and prescribed in the UK can help individuals approach these discussions with clearer expectations. Healthcare professionals remain responsible for assessing whether treatment is appropriate and ensuring that any prescribed medicine is used safely.

As treatment options continue to expand, informed conversations between patients and clinicians will remain an important part of how obesity care develops.

Hanlon Welcomes Council Delamont Decision

Staff Reporter
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Hanlon Welcomes Council Delamont Decision

Hanlon Welcomes Council Action to Protect Delamont Caravan Park

Sinn Féin Councillor Oonagh Hanlon has welcomed the decision by Newry Mourne, and Down District Council’s Strategy, Policy, and Resources Committee to take over the management of the caravan site at Delamont Country Park for the 2026 summer season.

The decision, taken at committee on March 12th, will see the Council operate the facility from June through to the end of September following the expiry of the previous lease, subject to ratification at the next full council meeting.

Councillor Oonagh Hanlon, Chair of the Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee, has welcomed the council decision to manage the Delamont Park caravan park this summer.

As Chair of the Strategy, Policy, and Resources Committee, Councillor Hanlon said: “This is a positive and proactive decision by the Council to protect a much-valued local facility and ensure it remains open and accessible to families and visitors over our busy summer months.

“Delamont Country Park is a key tourism asset for our district, attracting tens of thousands of people every year, and it is vital that we continue to invest in and maximise its potential for the benefit of our local community and economy.

“By stepping in to manage the caravan park this summer, the council is delivering practical solutions to protect local tourism and support local businesses.

“This approach also allows us to gather important information on demand and usage, which will help inform future decisions around the long-term management and development of the site.

“The caravan park plays an important role in the overall visitor experience at Delamont, and I am pleased that families will continue to have the opportunity to stay and enjoy everything the park and surrounding area have to offer.”

The Downpatrick DEA Councillor added that the facility will be marketed alongside Council-run sites at Castlewellan and Kilbroney using the existing booking system, ensuring ease of access for visitors.

“Council officials will report back following the summer season, and that will help shape a long-term, sustainable approach to the future management of the caravan park.”

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