Green Party NI Senses Major Political Shift

Jim Masson
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Green Party NI Senses Major Political Shift

Green Party NI Says UK Politics Has Shifted After Major English By-Election Win

• Gorton and Denton Green Party victory boosts hopes ahead of Northern Ireland elections

The Green Party in Northern Ireland has said that UK politics is undergoing a significant shift following the Greens’ decisive victory in the recent Gorton and Denton election in Manchester, England.

The result, which saw the Green Party win more than 40% of the vote, is being described as a turning point — and one that could signal change for Northern Ireland politics.

Mal O’Hara, Leader of the Green Party NI, said the result shows voters are increasingly moving away from traditional political parties.

“The Green Party didn’t just compete. The Greens won with over 40% of the vote.

“We beat both Labour and Reform by offering something simple: honesty, courage, and a real alternative to politics as usual.”

(l-r) Green Party Ireland Deputy Leader, Councillor Hazel Chu, Green Party Northern Ireland leader Mal O’Hara and candidate Hannah Spencer. Could the Greens in NI capture 40% of the vote like the UK Greens did in the Gorton and Denton by-election in Manchester. Is the tide changing in British poilitics?

“Northern Ireland Is now ready for change”

O’Hara said the result carries strong implications for Northern Ireland, where politics has long been dominated by the same parties.

“For 30 years Northern Ireland has been governed by the same parties, the same habits, and the same excuses. And what do we have to show for it?”

He pointed to a range of on-going crises:

  • Public services stretched beyond breaking point
  • A deepening housing crisis
  • Pollution in Lough Neagh
  • Environmental decline
  • Just 10 pieces of legislation passed since Stormont returned, including one recommending a 27% pay rise for MLAs

“This is not inevitable. It is the result of choices made by the political establishment,” he said.

Green Momentum Building in Northern Ireland

According to O’Hara, the Gorton and Denton Green Party breakthrough demonstrates what is possible when local organising meets voter demand for change.

“When Greens organise locally, speak plainly, and offer real solutions, people respond. The old rules do not apply anymore. Northern Ireland is ready for that same quantum shift.”

He added that meaningful political change requires public participation.

“Change does not happen on its own. It happens when people decide to build it.”

Join the Green Party NI or Make a Donation

Supporters are being encouraged to help grow the movement ahead of upcoming Northern Ireland elections.

Join the Green Party NI today:
“Membership is how we grow a movement rooted in communities and serious about transforming Northern Ireland. It is how we turn frustration into representation.” See link HERE.

Make a donation: HERE

Mal O’Hara added: “We do not rely on corporate money or wealthy backers. We publish every donation above £500 because we believe in transparency. You can view published donations HERE“.

“The breakthrough in Gorton and Denton was not an accident.

“It was built from the ground up. With your help, we can build the same momentum here in Northern Ireland and finally break the cycle of managed decline. This is how change starts.”

(Mal O’Hara, Leader of the Green Party NI).

Re-Gen Staff Screened By Action Cancer Big Bus

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Re-Gen Staff Screened By Action Cancer Big Bus

Re-Gen Employees get on board as Action Cancer Big Bus visits Newry

• Re-Gen employees get free health screenings this week.

One of Europe’s leading recycling companies, Re-Gen, partnered with Action Cancer brought its mobile health unit, the Big Bus, to Re-Gen’s Newry headquarters this week.

Re-Gen’s employees availed of free breast and health screenings through the partnership, supporting them to take control of their wellbeing.

The initiative was organised as part of several workplace benefits offered to Re-Gen employees. In addition, the business extended invitations to the local community.

Celine Doherty, Commercial Director of Re-Gen said: “Re-Gen was founded in Newry and remains deeply connected to this community. As one of Northern Ireland’s most significant employers it’s important to us that our local employees are given the opportunity to protect their health and wellbeing.

(l-r) Celine Doherty and Erin Whitla pictured with the Action Cancer Big Bus at Re-Gen’s site in Newry

“In addition to supporting our employees, we are passionate about supporting good causes. To date, we have donated £1 million to charities including £130,000 in 2025.

“Our Action Cancer partnership is an extension of this, and we are proud to support the organisation as it carries out its life-saving work across Northern Ireland by welcoming its Big Bus to our headquarters.”

Re-Gen’s revenue has increased from £30m to circa £100m over the last five years and today it employs over 400 people across its sites.

It is now the largest waste management company in Northern Ireland. Last year Deloitte announced Re-Gen as one of its Best Managed Companies awarding the business a coveted Gold Award for its resilience, innovation, and team culture.

Celine added: “We are a valuable contributor to Northern Ireland’s economy, but despite our ongoing growth, we remain committed to the Newry community and our employees therein.

“Our employees are dedicated to and understand our mission to decarbonise the environment. It is important to us that the energy our people bring to our business is recognised.”

Action Cancer is one of Northern Ireland’s leading cancer charities and has been delivering cancer prevention and early detection services across Northern Ireland for nearly 20 years.

The Action Cancer Big Bus mobile clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced health professionals, offering breast screening, health checks and health promotion services.

These screenings can help with early detection of cancer, when it is most treatable, and can also identify other health concerns such as diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure, providing residents with the knowledge and tools they need to take proactive steps to safeguard their wellbeing.

Annually the Action Cancer Bus provides approximately 5,000 breast screenings and 4,000 MOT health checks within local communities, which is key to early detection and prevention.

Erin Whitla, Action Cancer, said, “Corporate partnerships are an incredibly important part of our life-saving work. By bringing the Big Bus directly into communities and workplaces we can continue to offer screening services which are essential to early detection.

“We are delighted that Re-Gen recognises the importance of our service with early detection making a significant difference to treatment outcomes.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership with the business in 2026 and beyond.”

Community Support Hub Held In Downpatrick

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Community Support Hub Held In Downpatrick

Downpatrick Community Support Hub Drop-in event takes place at Down Leisure Centre

The Down Leisure Centre in Downpatrick hosted a Community Support Hub drop-in event on 18 February when members of the public had an opportunity to speak directly with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council representatives.

Council staff were joined by officials from a host of statutory agencies and community organisations who were able to provide confidential advice, help and support.

Representatives from the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust who took part in the Community Support Hub event at the Down Leisure Centre. Included are (from left) Belinda Hawthorne, Callum Archer, Gillian Coburn and Warren Francis.

The Community Support Hub is designed to provide people access to the right support from the right organisation, with advice on issues including housing, health and well-being, home and personal safety, training and employment and funding opportunities.

Council officials from a number of departments were joined by representatives from the PSNI, Housing Executive, Education Authority, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and other community sector organisations, including Volunteer Now and Community Advice.

Manus Teague (centre) from Downpatrick-based charity Life Change Changes Lives with members Geraldine McKinney and Paul Douglas.
 
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, at the Community Support Hub event held at the Down Leisure Centre in Downpatrick with resident Mary Ritchie (centre) and Laura Savage from the Council’s Leisure and Sport Department.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, who attended the Downpatrick event said: “The Community Support Hub events bring people together so they can get the information and support they need.

“The Hub provides an opportunity for people to learn more about the support available to them and how to access services.”

“The Council Chairperson said it was particularly pleasing to see so many agencies represented alongside the Council at the Downpatrick event.

The Council’s Commercial Development Support Officer for Indoor Leisure Frances Quinn (left,) with placement student Katie Watt and Mrs Denise Higgins from Downpatrick at the Down Leisure Centre event.

“The Community Support Hub opens the door for residents to meet face-to-face with staff from across Council departments, statutory partners and community organisations in one place. This is a great initiative and is something residents value,” Cllr Campbell added.

Funding for the Community Support Hub initiative is being provided by Newry Mourne and Down District Council, the Northern Ireland Executive and T:buc, with the initiative being co-ordinated by the Council’s District Electoral Area Forum Teams.

The next Community Support Hub event will take place at Newry Leisure Centre on Tuesday, 21 April 2026 and no booking is required.

Minister Congratulates Social Enterprise Sector

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Minister Congratulates Social Enterprise Sector

Minister Archibald addresses Social Enterprise annual conference

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has thanked the social enterprise sector for its work in creating opportunity, strengthening communities and contributing directly to our economic future.

The Minister was speaking at Social Enterprise NI’s Annual Conference in Derry, where she updated the audience on progress one year on from the introduction of her Department’s Social Enterprise Action Plan. 

The update highlights a year of strong progress and real momentum across the sector.

The Minister said: “I am committed to harnessing the community, social and economic impact of the social enterprise sector across the North.

Pictured with Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald are Gavin Annon, chair of SENI and Colin Jess, CEO of SENI.

“That is why, through my Social Enterprise Action Plan, I am working to support the sector and harness its unrealised potential. 

“I am pleased to report that this update paints a positive picture of a sector that is growing in confidence, capability, and visibility, and a policy environment that is strengthening alongside it.”

The Social Enterprise Action Plan – One Year on update is available at: 

www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/social-enterprise-action-plan

Recent research launched by the Minister concluded that the social enterprise sector contributes an estimated £933million in turnover to north’s economy and supports over 17,000 jobs spread throughout all regions of the North.

It found that 44% of NI social enterprises are female-led and that the sector has a strong presence in the most deprived communities.

The Minister added: “Social enterprises have demonstrated through this research, how valuable they are to inclusive economic growth and sustainability across the region. 

“I want to thank everyone in the sector. Your work creates opportunity, strengthens communities and contributes directly to our economic future.

“Looking ahead, my ambition is clear. I want a social enterprise sector that is confident and visible; integrated into our economic system; supported to scale and innovate, and recognised for the economic value it creates, as well as the social impact it delivers.”

Social Enterprise NI’s Annual Conference brought together nearly 150 attendees, including social enterprises, policymakers and sector partners from across North. 

The conference reflected the importance of ensuring regional balance and recognising the strength and diversity of social enterprise activity across all parts of the North. 

McGrath Says Warrenpoint Health Hub Needed

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McGrath Says Warrenpoint Health Hub Needed

McGrath welcomes planning permission approval for Warrenpoint Health and Wellbeing Hub

South Down SDLP MLA Colin McGrath has welcomed planning approval for Warrenpoint’s new Health and Wellbeing Hub.

The new £7.4m hub will also have facilities for the local community to use.

Good news for Warrenpoint: South Down MLA Colin McGrath gives a thumbs up to planning approval for Warrenpoint health and wellbeing hub.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “It is fantastic news that planning for Warrenpoint’s long delayed Community Centre has at last passed the planning stage, and council can now move to the procurement of a contractor team and commencement of works on site.

“With over £7m committed to the Centre this will mark an exciting new chapter for Warrenpoint. These new facilities are much needed and will be welcomed by the whole community. 

“I have repeatedly made the case that this project would not have reached the stage it has were it not for the conviction and determination of the local community, and those in the Warrenpoint Community Centre campaign group.

Cllr Declan McAteer has welcomed the planning approval for a health and wellbeing hub in Warrenpoint.

“They have kept the matter firmly on the agenda for over a decade and did much of the early and voluntary work in gathering local support for the centre.

“Their stalwart dedication to their town and this project cannot be downplayed, and I sincerely hope Newry Mourne and Down District Council keep them informed and included throughout the next steps of the process.”

Crotlieve DEA SDLP Councillor Declan McAteer said: “The need for a dedicated centre in Warrenpoint has been well known and accepted for many years.

“Despite numerous delays, I was delighted to make a strong case for the centre today and second the proposal that saw the initial recommendation for refusal overturned.

“Now we must see all parties commit to getting the centre delivered without any further delay. The local community need and deserve nothing less than this.”

Lupini Looking For More Success At Dundalk

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Lupini Looking For More Success At Dundalk

County Down trainer Natalia Lupini hoping for more success with two runners at Dundalk later this week

Another Friday trip to Dundalk is on the cards for Banbridge trainer Natalia Lupini as she sends two runners to the all-weather meeting later this week. 

Lupini scored a double on the card at the track earlier this month and has two more hopes later this week 

Natalía Lupini, Banbrdge trainer, is looking for another winner this Friday at Dundalk.

Read below for a rundown on Lupini’s runners this Friday courtesy of BetVictor Casino.

Summer Island could take his place in the mile handicap at 5.30pm on Friday’s card and is a big hope for Lupini, having won at this track last time out when scoring over course and distance on February 6. 

That was his first run for the trainer having switched from the John McConnell yard and was also off track for 157 days. He is one of only two last-time-out winners in the prospective field and this looks a good chance for the four-year-old to follow up.

The other entry for Lupini on Friday’s card is Sutton Hoo, who has an entry in the one mile and two furlong maiden contest at 7.30pm.  

The three-year-old colt has had just two under-whelming racecourse starts so far – a sixth on debut at Gowran Park, followed by finishing last in a Listowel maiden contest back in September.

Consequently, he has had time off the track since then so Lupini will be hoping for better things from her runner following this break. 

Jordan McPolin Through To Glór Tíre Semi

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Jordan McPolin Through To Glór Tíre Semi

Down Country Singer Jordan McPolin Says ‘The support has been insane’

County Down singer Jordan McPolin from Hilltown has reached the semi-final stage of the prestigious Country Music show, Glór Tíre.

Does Down have a new Country Music star? Jordan McPolin has certainly staked a claim to that title after qualifying for the Semi-Finals of Glór Tíre – Ireland’s most prestigious Country Music programme.

Jordan, from Hilltown in the south of the county, impressed the judges and won the public vote on last night’s show, with his spirited rendition of the Michael English song, ‘Joey On The Fiddle’.

He also saw off strong competition from fellow Ulster singers Maeve Farrell, also from County Down, Derry’s Marty Breslin, and Tyrone’s Ryan Lynch.

“I picked ‘Joey On The Fiddle’ because it’s a song I really like singing. It’s a really good, lively one that always keeps them jiving on the dance floor.”

Jordan McPolin has sung his way through to the semi-final of the Glór Tíre country music show and can be seen next on Tuesday 3rd March on the show on TG4 in the final.

Jordan’s victory means he goes through to next week’s Glór Tíre Semi-Final, which will be broadcast on Irish language station TG4 on Tuesday 3 March at 9.30pm.

The show is regarded as the most prestigious platform on Irish television for emerging and established Country Music artists, and is one of the few programmes produced in the Republic of Ireland which enjoys a dedicated audience in Northern Ireland.

The County Down man will be the sole Northern Irish contestant on the show, competing for a place in the Grand Final against Darcy Walsh (Donegal), Megan O’Hara (Offaly), Dee Morrissey (Tipperary), and Paudie Coffey (Kerry).

“It’s a dream come true to get into the Semi-Final,” says Jordan. “The experience of being on Glór Tíre has been phenomenal. Getting on the TV is a massive thing on its own, and the exposure from it has been brilliant.

“From the start of the campaign and my episode of the series, my Facebook page has blown up, and the followers have increased.

“Every post is getting piles of Likes and Shares, and there’s messages from everybody, the support has been insane. I couldn’t be any more thankful to them. Hopefully, everybody from County Down will support me, and I want to make County Down, and everyone who has supported me, proud.”

Down Country fans can vote for Jordan on next week’s show by downloading the Glór Tíre app from Google Play and the Apple App Store.

The Glór Tíre Grand-Final will be presented by Aoife Ní Thuairisg. Resident judges Jó Ní Chéide and Caitriona Ní Shuilleabháin will be joined by guest judge, singer Brendan Shine.

Check out: www.tg4.ie and follow @glortire on social media.

***

Maeve Farrell Says She Will Build On The Glór Tíre Experience

‘I’m able to say I sang at the Grand Old Opry’

She may not have made it to the Glór Tíre Semi-Final, but Maeve Farrell is the only contestant on this year’s show who can say she has sung on stage at the Grand Ole Opry.

Maeve Farrel singing her Gospel Melody.

On last night’s show, broadcast on Irish language station TG4, 20-something Maeve from Annaclone certainly did Down, and the county’s Country scene proud, with a gospel medley that showcased her impressive vocal abilities.

“That Gospel Melody is a track from my debut album, Crossroads, that I released 10 years ago,” she said. “I’ve been reflecting a lot on the steps that made me the performer and the person I am today, so I just thought it very fitting because it all represents where I started from.”

Maeve plans to “keep going, keep writing, keep recording, keep gigging”. Perhaps a hint of what is to come came during a recent visit to the Country Music Mecca that is the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee.

“I was there for the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th Birthday and 100th anniversary concert,” says Maeve. “During the visit, I was wearing a dress that my best friend designed for me. It replicates the Country Rose Barbie doll that the Grand Ole Opry and Barbie brought out.

“I was on the post-show backstage tour. When the tour guide was speaking, she asked about my dress, and I said: “Well, I’m a country singer. My stage nickname is The Country Rose. This is the Barbie Doll Country Rose dress. And the guide said: “Would you like to sing at the Opry?”

“I thought she was joking, but no! I got to stand in the circle, on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and sang a song! – not technically during the show, but I did it! I’ll always be able to say ‘I sang at the Grand Old Opry’.”

www.tg4.ie

Muir Launches New Marine Protection Strategy

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Muir Launches New Marine Protection Strategy

New Marine Protection Strategy launched For Northern Ireland

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has launched a new strategy to protect Northern Ireland’s marine environment over the next five years.

The Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Strategy for the Northern Ireland Inshore Region 2025–2030 sets out how Northern Ireland will further develop and manage its network of MPAs to safeguard key habitats and species, close remaining ecological gaps and support nature‑based solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Marine Protected Areas (MPA) are specially designated zones within the marine environment that have been identified as ecologically significant and deserving of enhanced protection.

The original MPA Strategy published in 2014 established a network of marine protected areas through a programme of such designations, enabling targeted conservation efforts.

DAERA Minister Edwin Muir, centre, launches the new 5-year Marine Protected Area Strategy at Castle Espie near Comber.

Developed through extensive engagement with stakeholders across the marine, fisheries and environmental sectors, the MPA Strategy reflects a shared ambition to enhance biodiversity, improve resilience and secure long‑term benefits for coastal communities.

Launching the Strategy at Castle Espie, Minister Muir said: “Northern Ireland’s outstanding marine environment is home to unique and internationally important species and habitats.

“Here in Strangford Lough, we have seagrass beds that support overwintering Brent Geese, rocky reefs with kelp forests and a range of species from starfish, anemones and crabs to seals and dolphins.

“The North Channel is home to the Harbour porpoise, and our north coast, the maerl seaweed beds at Red Bay and rare sponges at Rathlin Island are all fantastic examples of the rich biodiversity that our marine protected areas are helping to safeguard.

“Seagrass, kelp and native oysters are all also examples of blue carbon habitats, that demonstrate the role that the marine can play in meeting our climate targets. 

“We must build on the good work done to recognise the importance of our marine areas in providing vital habitats and in helping to mitigate and adapt to climate change.”

Minister Muir added: “If we are to achieve a truly well-managed marine environment, it is essential that we maintain the positive momentum which has led to the recovery of key marine habitats.

“My Marine Protected Areas Strategy sets a clear, long‑term approach to support the recovery of our most important marine habitats and species and aligns closely with the ambition of the draft Northern Ireland Nature Recovery Strategy, by ensuring that marine habitats and species are protected, sustainably managed and restored alongside our efforts on land.

“This is an important milestone for nature in Northern Ireland – one that reflects robust scientific evidence, embraces partnership working, and commits us to safeguarding our marine environment for future generations.”

The Strategy is now available on the DAERA website: 

https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/marine-protected-areas-strategy-northern-ireland-inshore-region-2025-2030.

    New Exhibition For Orange Museum In Belfast

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    New Exhibition For Orange Museum In Belfast

    Orange Museum Hosts New Exhibition

    On Monday evening the Museum of Orange Heritage based at Schomberg House in Belfast hosted the
    aunch of “𝐀 𝐕𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐨𝐰𝐧: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐧, 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝟏𝟗𝟐𝟎-𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟔.

    Dr Samuel Beckton conducted a very interesting talk on the Protestant associations in the border Counties after Partition.

    The exhibition runs until Saturday, 28th February 10am-5pm (last admission 4pm).

    The Museum is free entry and is based at 368 Cregagh Road, Belfast, BT6 9EY.

    Dr Samuel Beckton gave an interesting talk on Protestant Associations in the border Counties after Partition at the Orange Order Museum in Belfast.

    Cuan Court Children’s Home Scoops Civic Award

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    Cuan Court Children’s Home Scoops Civic Award

    Cuan Court Children’s Home Honoured With A Human Endeavor Award at Council Civic Awards

    Cuan Court Children’s Home in Downpatrick has been presented with the prestigious Human Endeavour Award at the Newry Mourne and Down District Council Civic Awards 2026.

    The Human Endeavour Award recognises exceptional dedication, courage, resilience and perseverance, often in the face of significant challenge.

    The award celebrates individuals or Teams who demonstrate outstanding commitment in supporting others and making a meaningful difference within their community.

    The Staff Team at Cuan Court, from Care Workers to Management were recognised for consistently going above and beyond in their roles, providing unwavering love, support and guidance to the young people in their care.

    Their dedication helps create a safe, nurturing environment where young people are supported to build confidence, overcome adversity and achieve positive outcomes.

    Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell presents the overall award for Human Endeavour to the staff of Cuan Court Children’s Home in Downpatrick –  L-R Conor Philips, MC, Tracey Watson, Denise McAuley and Ashleigh McCabe, staff representatives from Cuan Court. (Photo courtesy of Newry Mourne and Down District Council).

    Team Leader at Cuan Court, Rachel Davis, expressed her pride in the Team’s achievement and said: “I am incredibly grateful to see my Team recognised and I am truly overwhelmed to receive the overall award.

    “I am in constant awe of the care they give our young people every day, this recognition means so much, and I could not be prouder.”

    The South Eastern Trust Assistant Director for Cared for Children, Marie-Louise Sloan, also praised the Team for their commitment and professionalism and added: “This award is very much deserved and is a testament to the compassion, resilience and dedication shown by the entire Cuan Court Team.

    “The staff provide stability, encouragement and child-centred support to young people who may have experienced significant challenges in their lives. Their work makes a difference every single day.”

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