Mournes And Slieve Gullion To Restore Peatland

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Mournes And Slieve Gullion To Restore Peatland

Mournes and Slieve Gullion feature in Cross Border Peatland Restoration Project

Rebecca Allen (NI Water), Nigel McKinney (Mourne Heritage Trust), Roy Taylor (NI Water), Teresa O’Hare (Mourne Heritage Trust). (Photos: Jonny Campbell.)

The Mournes and Slieve Gullion feature in a major €19.2 million cross-border project to restore peatlands, enhance biodiversity and combat climate change.

The PEAT+ Project is led by nature conservation charity Ulster Wildlife and is funded by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU programmes Body.

The project will deliver large-scale peatland restoration across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland on 19 priority sites over the next three years and will include innovation and research, along with promoting the heritage of peatlands.

From left, SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre, Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir and Ulster Wildlife Chief Executive Dawn Miskelly at the launch of the PEAT+ project, at the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre. (Photos: Jonny Campbell.)

The work in the Mournes will focus on the Pot of Doan, where the views from the mountain peak are breathtaking, and on the southern half of the stunning Slieve Gullion, with the new cross-border project paving the way for partnership working between all those involved.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council and Mourne Heritage Trust are among the project delivery partners who also include Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon District Council, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Donegal; Crichton Carbon Centre, Cuilcagh; Lakelands Geopark, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council and RTÉ, along with associate partners NI Water and National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS). 

Despite huge progress in delivering restoration works on peatlands across Ireland in recent years, it is estimated that 80% of Irish peatland is still in a degraded state and a source of carbon emissions, with the new cross-border project paving the way for partnership working between landowners, project partners and statutory agencies.

Restoring the landscapes is critical for tackling climate change, along with restoring nature, improving water quality and reducing flood risk, with the PEAT+ Project also helping recover threatened species closely associated with peatland habitats, including golden plover and the large heath butterfly. 

Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir said: “The PEAT+ programme provides a unique opportunity for collaboration between landowners, project partners, and statutory agencies across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

“This partnership approach will not only enable effective delivery of peatland restoration but also foster lasting legacy relationships to support future initiatives.

Rebecca Allen (NI Water), Nigel McKinney (Mourne Heritage Trust), Roy Taylor (NI Water), Teresa O’Hare (Mourne Heritage Trust)

“My Department is delighted to support this initiative, recognising that peatland restoration will deliver on multiple strategic objectives – enhancing biodiversity, improving climate resilience, and increasing carbon storage – while also creating opportunities for local communities through job creation and sustainable economic growth.”

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “This is an important peatland restoration initiative which will leave a lasting legacy.

“The Peat+ Project funded by PEACEPLUS will have a positively significant impact and promote the heritage of peatlands which are remarkable landscapes.

“It is important we all work to protect these fragile environments for future generations,” he said.

“Peatlands are unique and this new initiative will also ensure they help combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide and play its part in reducing emissions and help a precious ecosystem thrive.”

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said, “PEAT+ will make a direct contribution to the objectives of PEACEPLUS. By restoring habitats and species within protected sites, the project will help create more resilient ecosystems.

“Our natural environment is one of our most valuable assets and its protection is essential for the long-term well-being of all our communities across the region.

“PEAT+ aims to protect habitats and species of international significance, while also addressing carbon storage and water regulation.

“This partnership brings together scientific knowledge, land management experience and community engagement skills. It is a partnership that reflects the cross-border nature of the challenge and the shared responsibility to address it.”

Ulster Wildlife Chief Executive Officer, Dawn Miskelly said: “We’re very proud to be leading this really significant project that will make a lasting difference for nature, people and climate. 

“Our peatlands are real powerhouses of habitats that provide multiple benefits for wildlife, for communities and for the economy. 

“We’re looking forward to working closely with our project partners, landowners and communities, along with our funding partner SEUPB through the PEACEPLUS Programme to deliver meaningful change – because investing in our natural environment, is investing in all our shared futures.” 

BeeSafe Event Sees Over 1600 Pupils Attend

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BeeSafe Event Sees Over 1600 Pupils Attend

Over 1,600 Primary School Pupils Take Part in BeeSafe Events

Over 1,600 P7 school children from across Newry Mourne and Down took part in BeeSafe events, held at various locations across the district between 19 January and 6 February.

The multi-agency initiative, organised by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, is designed to help children learn how to keep themselves safe and avoid potentially dangerous situations, particularly as they prepare for the important transition to secondary education.

The Council delivered the proactive community safety programme in partnership with a range of key organisations, with events combining expert advice, practical guidance and interactive activities.

This approach ensured pupils were able to engage with vital safety messages in a fun, accessible and memorable way.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Cllr Philip Campbell, is photographed at the Ballymote Centre in Downpatrick with representatives from a range of key organisations involved in delivering the BeeSafe initiative, including the PSNI, Translink, NIFRS, County Down Rural Community Network, RNLI, and the Council’s Health Improvement team as well as P7 pupils from the Cedar Integrated School in Crossgar.

The workshops covered a wide range of safety and wellbeing topics including Home Accident Prevention and Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing delivered by the Council, Internet Safety presented by the PSNI, Bus Safety facilitated by Translink, Fire Safety in the Home co-ordinated by Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, Water Safety provided by RNLI, and Nutrition information presented by the Southern Health and Social Care Trust.

Each session was tailored to be age-appropriate and interactive, giving pupils the opportunity to ask questions, take part in demonstrations and gain practical advice they can use in everyday life.

Teachers accompanying the pupils also welcomed the programme as a valuable support to classroom learning.

Speaking about the initiative, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said: “I am delighted that these events have been organised for primary seven pupils across the district.

“This initiative is a great example of how agencies are working together across Newry Mourne and Down to achieve a successful outcome.

“I know that the children and teachers have benefited from taking part in the workshops and trust that this will stand them in good stead as they move from primary into secondary education, equipping the children with some key life skills to stay safe and keep well.”

The Council would like to thank all partner agencies, schools and staff who supported the delivery of the BeeSafe programme and helped make the events such a success.

The initiative forms part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to promoting community safety, wellbeing and positive outcomes for young people across the district.

Balmoral Show Countdown With Ulster Bank

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Balmoral Show Countdown With Ulster Bank

Countdown begins to 2026 Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank

The time is approaching once again for the 2026 Balmoral Show.

The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) has officially launched the countdown to the 2026 Balmoral Show, announcing that Ulster Bank will return as principal sponsor as part of a new three-year partnership agreement.

The renewed sponsorship deal will see Ulster Bank continue its close association with the agri-food event through to 2028, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to the local farming community and wider rural economy.

Taking place at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, Lisburn from 13–16th May 2026, this year’s show promises an exciting programme of competitions, entertainment plus food and farming showcases.

Visitors can look forward to a range of new attractions, including a stunt display show from Bolddog FMX in the main arena, a revamped horticulture area, and the usual mix of family entertainment and livestock events designed to inspire the next generation of farmers and food producers.

Rhonda Geary, RUAS Group Operations Director Rhonda Geary, RUAS Group Operations Director and Cormac McKervey, Senior Agriculture Manager, Ulster Bank, kick off the countdown to the 2026 Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank. The pair are joined by county Antrim farmer, John Cross, who received the award for Champion Clydesdale at the 2025 event. (Photos courtesy of RUAS).

Looking ahead to the event, RUAS Group Operations Director Rhonda Geary said:

“Preparations are already well under way for what we expect to be another outstanding Balmoral Show in 2026.

“As always, the show is a celebration of the very best of our local agri-food industry.

“We are continually growing and evolving to ensure there is something new and exciting to see whether you are a longstanding visitor or coming to the show for the first time.

“We are delighted to welcome Ulster Bank back on board as our principal sponsor. Their long-term support has been integral to the success and growth of the event, and this new three-year agreement underlines the strength of that partnership.”

Cormac McKervey, Senior Agriculture Manager at Ulster Bank, added: “2026 will be Ulster Bank’s 18th year as principal sponsor of the Balmoral Show and we are proud to continue our longstanding association with the event.

“The agri-food sector is a significant contributor to the overall economy here and supporting farmers, growers and rural businesses, remains a key priority for us.

“Through our specialist agriculture teams and tailored financial solutions, we are committed to helping the industry meet challenges and plan for growth in what is an ever-evolving sector.

“The Balmoral Show provides a unique platform for us to connect with the farming community, celebrate success and highlight our network of expertise.

“We are pleased to extend our partnership with the RUAS and to play our part in making the 2026 show another memorable event.”

The Balmoral Show remains Northern Ireland’s largest annual agri-food event, attracting more than 100,000 visitors each year and providing an unrivalled showcase for livestock, machinery, food, horticulture and rural life.

Further announcements on competitions, attractions and ticket sales for Balmoral Show 2026 will be made in the coming months. For more information, visit:

www.balmoralshow.co.uk

Older People Commissioner On Road To Zero

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Older People Commissioner On Road To Zero

Commissioner for Older People signs up to Share the Road to Zero

The Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, Siobhan Casey, has added her backing to the Department for Infrastructure’s ‘Share the Road to Zero’ road safety campaign.

Explaining that it was more important than ever that older drivers take extra precautions to stay safe, the Commissioner said: “Too many older people are being seriously injured on our roads, whether as drivers or pedestrians, and this is something we cannot ignore.

“While statistically older car drivers are less likely to be responsible for serious or fatal collisions on our roads compared to young car drivers, the reality is that in the event of a collision they are more likely to be badly hurt and to face a longer road to recovery.

“We are now in mid-winter with icy conditions and reduced daylight making driving more challenging for everyone, it’s more important than ever that older drivers take extra precautions to stay safe.  

“I would also encourage everyone to consider any health conditions or changes that might affect their driving and take the necessary steps to manage these so that we all can remain safe, confident and independent for as long as possible.”

The campaign reminds older drivers to be aware of the prevailing road conditions, keeping their driving licence up to date in the event of any illness and other health issues and to be aware of different requirements around driving licence renewal for drivers aged over 70.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said: “I want to thank the Commissioner for highlighting the ways in which older drivers can keep safe on our roads and making sure we all follow the appropriate steps in the event of illness or other health conditions.  

Commissioner for Older People Siobhan Case, right, reminds us of the importance of road safety as she signs up to the Share the Road to Zero campaign. Included is DfI Minster Liz Kimmins.

“Sadly too many people are killed and seriously injured on our roads every year and more than 95% of road deaths are due to human error.

“All of us can make a difference and help save lives by taking more care when using the roads.

“Our recent Fitness to Drive campaign is also a reminder to us all to follow the right steps in the event of illness and other health issues and for older people to be aware of the differing requirements for those aged 70 plus when renewing their licence.

“If we all keep ourselves right by taking personal responsibility, we will help make roads safer and help reduce fatalities.

“The sad reality is that if we do not all change our own attitudes when we are driving, our death toll will continue to increase.”

A number of high-profile sports stars have backed the initiative including Ulster Ladies GAA and Armagh captain Clodagh McCambridge, Olympian Ciara Mageean, Liverpool and Northern Ireland footballer Conor Bradley, Ulster Rugby trio Jacob Stockdale, Nick Timoney, and Michael Lowry, Ulster GAA star Rory Grugan, senior women’s footballer Emily Wilson and Belfast Giants.

The Northern Ireland Football League, PSNI, Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, Road Safe NI and councils are among other organisations that have now signed up to the campaign.

Strangford Groans Under Roadworks Pressure

Jim Masson
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Strangford Groans Under Roadworks Pressure

Galbraith raises concerns over impact of A25 works on Strangford businesses

SDLP Downpatrick Councillor Conor Galbraith has raised concerns about the impact of ongoing resurfacing works on the A25 Downpatrick Road and Castleward Road on businesses in Strangford Village.

Local traders have reported a significant reduction in footfall since the closure began, with some experiencing losses of up to 90% in weekday trade, placing pressure on jobs and the long-term viability of village businesses.

Downpatrick SDLP Cllr Conor Galbraith has expressed his concerns about works on the A25 at Strangford impacting badly on local businesses.

SDLP Councillor Conor Galbraith said: “Strangford is a small village that depends heavily on passing trade and visitors, and the current road closure is having a very real impact on local businesses.

“I have been contacted by a number of traders who are seeing a dramatic drop in customers, with some struggling to meet basic staffing and operating costs.

“Many of these are long-established, family-run businesses that play a vital role in the local economy.

“While there is a clear need for road improvements, the level of disruption being experienced highlights the importance of proper communication and meaningful mitigation.

“I have raised these concerns directly with Roads Service and I am seeking urgent engagement and clarity on what support may be available.

“Also, I an seeking reassurance that the economic impact on Strangford is being taken seriously, particularly with the works continuing through half-term, St Patrick’s Day and into the Easter period”.

Businesses in Strangford Are Reeling With Customers Giving The Village A Miss

Local residents and businesses have been given assurances from the Department of Infrastructure (DfI) Roads Services that the A25 road upgrade will be completed by end of March.

Down News travelled to Strangford to find out how this road improvement was affected local businesses.

I got to the Ballyculter crossroads on the Downpatrick Road at the junction at Castle Ward one mile from STrangford and had to turn right and ‘follow the signs’. I drove to the Bishopscourt Road, down to Kilclief and came into Strangford from the Shore Road.

Strangford businesses are suffering badly because of the traffic restrictions on the current roadworks. (Photos: JimMasson/Down News©).

This detour added around nine miles to get to the village one way. When I arrived there it was very quiet compared to a normal day with vehicles driving around and some heading for the ferry.

In a letter to the residents dated 6th January 2026, the DfI said: “The work will commence 300 metres from the A2 Shore Road junction for a distances of 1150 metres. The scheme will deliver significant improvements to the structural integrity and surface of the road and improve road drainage…

“Access will be accommodated to all affected properties located within the closure over the duration of the works, however, at times there may be a short delay to clear safe passage.

“These works will likely cause inconvenience to the travelling public, and we appreciate your cooperation during this time…

One local resident said that parents on the Ballyculter side have to make this long run twice a day to get their children to the St Joseph’s Primary School where normally it was around a mile each way.

The mood of the villagers can be summed up in two words: ‘politely angry’.

Hardly any passing traffic. Businesses are suffering in Strangford due to the roadworks.

I spoke to four businesses and here are the collective responses from Kevin Og Newsagent, Duffy’s Store, Vivo Shop, and the Cake Room. The Lobster Pot, The Cuan, and the Artisan Cookhouse were closed but trade there too has been impacted by the roadworks.

• all said that they agreed that the roadworks would improve the busy road, BUT…

• they questioned why the DfI Road Services had allowed the roadworks to drag on for so long not working in the evenings or weekends.

• some residents received letters from the DfI, but ‘my business didn’t’.

• delivery lorries were being sent on a long detour along narrow, unsuitable roads.

An uncommon scene in Strangford… an empty street.

• some drivers unfamiliar had taken a first left onto the Crew Road coming from Downpatrick to find the exit was blocked at the far end. The signage is confusing.

• it has had a major impact on Strangford. Businesses are all very much affected with takings well down.

• businesses said that they were just just getting mostly local trade. There was no real passing traffic as prior to the roadworks. We needed that passing trade to survive.

• the town is at the moment just dead.

• the road does open at 4.30pm but sometimes the signs say it is closed and cars etc have to detour. This also applies to weekends. It’s a great inconvenience. We only have one back road into Strangford at the moment.

• trade is definitely down a lot, this will go on for possibly several weeks yet. It’s very difficult to survive in this environment.

£400M Earmarked For NI Government Reserve

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£400M Earmarked For NI Government Reserve

£400 million reserve claim allocation agreed for NI coffers

£400 million is to be added to the NI reserve but Finance MInister John O’Dowd said we will still have to tighten our belts going forward.

£400 million reserve claim funding to support departments and public services has been secured. It may sound like a lot but how much of its benefits trickles down to County Down will remain to be seen.

Minister John O’Dowd said: “Following intense negotiations and recognition of the significant financial challenges faced by Executive, the Treasury has agreed to provide a reserve claim of £400 million for 2025/26 which will be repaid over three years.

“The Executive remains committed to safeguarding public services, and this approach will allow us to spread costs over a longer period, reducing pressure on those services.

Finance Minister John O’Dowd has welcomed the £400 million for the NI reserve from the Treasury Department.

“While this flexibility is welcome, it does not cover the full forecast overspend. We must therefore continue to reduce the overspend, and I remain committed to working with Ministerial colleagues to manage the remaining pressures.”

The £400 million secured through the reserve claim will be allocated to these departments on a pro-rata basis, reflecting their remaining forecast overspends.

  • Department of Education – £214.6 million
  • Department of Health – £185.4 million

The Minister added: “The Executive is committed to meaningful reform of how public services are designed and delivered.

“I am keen to ensure that the level of funding provided to the Executive meets the growing demand for public services here.

“I will continue to engage with the Treasury on the three-year budget and a proper funding model for the Executive.”

The Written Ministerial statement is available at https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/written-ministerial-statement-public-expenditure-2025-26-reserve-claim

    Singing For Health Group Launches CD

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    Singing For Health Group Launches CD

    Recovery celebrated by Singing For Health group through CD launch

    A singing-for-health group, Voice of Hope, run by the Wellness Recovery Network within the South Eastern Trust has launched a new CD ‘Turn the Key’ inspired by members’ personal journeys of mental health recovery.

    The Voice of Hope singing group has empowered individuals to rebuild confidence, rediscover their voices and reconnect with others through the shared joy of music, with participants experiencing positive impacts on their overall mental health and wellbeing.

    Their new album, ‘Turn the Key’, features original songs inspired by local landscapes and lived experience, giving voice to those who have walked the path of recovery.

    The songs reflect resilience, community and the belief that everyone has the power to “turn the key” and change the direction of their lives.

    Members of the Sining for Hope group in action.

    The dedication shown by group members throughout the project was evident in the growth of their musical skills, confidence and recovery journeys. For many involved in the group, the experience of recording the CD proved truly life-changing.

    Over the years, Voice of Hope has performed at events across the Trust, promoting messages of hope, recovery and connection. The CD launch marked the next step in the group’s development and demonstrates the power of creative arts in supporting mental wellbeing.

    The Wellness Recovery Network delivers creative and support programmes across the South Eastern Trust and has been working in partnership with The Right Key CIC, specialists in singing for health workshops.

    One group member, Anuk Rooney from Bangor, whose life has been transformed through the singing group, returned to her love of piano by recording on an original track titled ‘Song of Hope’, which features on the album.

    Anuk Rooney playing the piano.

    Speaking about her experience, Anuk said: “Being part of Voice of Hope has helped me reconnect with music and with myself. Being part of the creation of Song of Hope was incredibly meaningful and reminded me that recovery is possible.”

    Wellness Recovery Network Co-ordinator, Angela O’Hara was delighted to see the hard work of the group come together in an album. 

    Angela said: “The launch was a celebration of an incredible achievement and it was a very uplifting and hopeful afternoon. The group performed songs from the album live and shared recovery stories that were truly inspiring.

    “Many of these journeys began with feelings of brokenness. Through the Wellness Recovery Network and singing together, members have built support systems, routine and a renewed sense of identity.

    “Having their voices immortalised on a CD really demonstrates the power of creativity and connection and the launch showcased these remarkable people.”

    The CD project was made possible through a strong collaboration between the South Eastern Trust, The Right Key CIC and the Arts Council, with special thanks to Sheila Smyth who wrote the original pieces with the help of the Voice of Hope group, Artist and Composer N.B.S and Steve Plews from ASC Records.

    The CD is priced at £10 and copies can be requested by contacting:

    [email protected] 

    or (07713) 088 676.

    The Voice of Hope group is open to anyone aged 18 and over and runs on Monday afternoons at Action Mental Health in Newtownards. Individuals can self-refer by emailing:

    [email protected] 

    or calling (07713) 088 676.

    Housing Executive Community Awards Open

    Staff Reporter
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    Housing Executive Community Awards Open

    Patricia ‘champions’ launch of Housing Executive rural community awards – search is one for a champion on County Down

    Unsung Heroes from rural areas across Northern Ireland are being sought by the Housing Executive for their latest rural community awards competition.

    Nominations for those working at the grassroots in rural communities are wanted before 4pm on Friday, 27th February, 2026, with successful applicants having the chance of claiming up to £1,000 to support their work.

    Rural awards give local communities and their groups a chance to showcase the range of activities they are involved in to keep their areas attractive and vibrant during the last year.

    They also give the Housing Executive an opportunity to recognise the outstanding volunteering work being carried out on the ground in neighbourhoods and villages across rural parts of Northern Ireland.

    Winner of last year’s Community Champion Award in the North region was Patricia McConnell.

    Championing the cause… launching the Housing Executive’s recent Rural Community Awards competition are, (l-r), Patricia McConnell, last year’s Rural Community Champion and Chairperson of Carnlough Community Association and Mary Watson, Association Secretary and Patricia’s nominator.

    Patricia (82) is co-founder of Carnlough Community Association, a group formed in 2005 which strives to tackle issues like poverty, unemployment and mental health.

    Reflecting upon her year as Community Champion Patricia said: “It was so lovely to be recognized by the Housing Executive for the effort we put in to improving life for everyone living in our beautiful village.

    “Over the last year we have really tried to focus on providing services which will help enhance the mental health and well-being of those aged 30 – 60, an age group I feel can often get overlooked.

    “We have introduced new courses including yoga, reflexology, food hygiene and first aid classes alongside our longstanding luncheon club, youth club, bowling club and summer scheme which continue to go from strength to strength.

    “I am so passionate about our village and I will keep volunteering for as long as I can. My husband jokes that I should move my bed to our premises because I spend most of my time there.

    “I would just love to see more young people volunteering. It brings me such joy to watch the young volunteers we currently have helping to build the confidence of their peers in the youth club and summer scheme.

    “I would strongly encourage groups to apply for the Rural Community Awards. They are a wonderful way to celebrate the work of and raise the profile of small rural groups making a huge difference.

    “I would like to thank the Housing Executive for giving me this award last year and for all the support and advice they offer us every year.”

    First launched at the Balmoral Show in 2014, the Rural Community Awards competition has been a huge success – generating hundreds of inspiring applications.

    Pamela Johnston, the Housing Executive’s Rural and Regeneration Manager, said: “We want to celebrate the work of volunteers across Northern Ireland who are quite often the ’unsung heroes’ in our community.

    “They routinely go above and beyond to promote health and wellbeing, individual and community development, social inclusion and to help make life better for all residents, which is to be commended.

    “I’m very much looking forward to hearing more inspirational stories about all the good work that is being done.”

    There are three awards on offer:

    – The Community Champion award is open to extraordinary individuals nominated by the rural community group they represent. The group will win £500 and there will be a prize for the individual.

    – Rural Community Spirit award is open to all community groups based in rural areas who work together to make their village or small settlement a better place to live. The winning group will receive £1,000.

    – Cleaner and Greener Rural Community award, sponsored by Northern Ireland Housing Council, rewards and encourages those rural communities who have come together to protect and enhance their built and natural environment and to promote sustainability with their residents. The winning group will receive £1,000.

    There will be winners in both the Housing Executive’s North and South Regions as well runner’s up prize money in each category.

    To nominate your local Unsung Hero via the Rural Community Awards, visit www.nihe.gov.uk and search for Rural Community Awards, or alternatively email [email protected] to request an application form

    Completed application forms should be returned to the Housing Executive by 4pm on Friday, 27th February, 2026.

    Newry Rathfriland Road To Get Improvements

    Jim Masson
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    Newry Rathfriland Road To Get Improvements

    Kimmins announces £635,000 road improvement scheme for Newry Road, Rathfriland

    Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has announced that a £635,000 carriageway resurfacing scheme has commenced.

    The resurfacing scheme involves the resurfacing of the Newry Road, Rathfriland, commencing at Grocers Road to its junction with Greenhill Road, a distance of 1,450 metres.

    Minister Kimmins said: “This is a substantial investment for the Rathfriland area which will deliver significant benefits for local businesses, residents and road users.

    “The investment demonstrates my commitment to improving our road network, which is vital for connecting our businesses and communities.

    “This work will greatly improve the strength and surface quality of this section of the road network to the benefit of local residents, businesses and those travelling in the Rathfriland area. 

    “Work is expected to be substantially completed by Friday 3 April 2026.  

    “I would like to thank residents, local businesses, and commuters for their patience while this essential infrastructure work is carried out.”

    To facilitate the safe delivery of the scheme it will be necessary to implement a daily road closure from Monday 9 February to Friday 20 February 2026 and Monday 9 March to Friday 3 April 2026. The road will be closed daily between 9:30 am and 16:30 pm Monday to Friday.

    There will also be a continuous closure commencing on Monday 23 February to Saturday 7 March 2026 to repair a verge slippage within the length of the scheme.

    An alternative route will be signed with traffic being diverted via: A25 Newry Road, A25 Newry Street, A25 Main Street, A25 Downpatrick Street, B0025 Hilltown Road, A25 Castlewellan Road, B25 Rathriland Road, B8 Main Street, B8 Newry Road, B8 Hilltown Road, A25 Rathriland Road, A25 Finnard Road and vice versa.

    The Department has programmed the work operations and traffic management arrangements to minimise inconvenience.

    However, while steps have been taken to accommodate local access road users should expect some delays and are advised to allow additional time when travelling in the vicinity of the works and are asked to comply with all temporary traffic restrictions.

    Subject to favourable weather conditions, the works will be substantially complete by Friday 3 April 2026, however the Department will keep the public informed of any change.

    The Digital Mirror How Instagram Captures the Young Mind

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    The Digital Mirror How Instagram Captures the Young Mind

    In the modern era the glow of a smartphone screen has become the campfire around which young people gather. While platforms like Instagram promise connection and creativity they often deliver something far more complex and difficult to escape. For millions of teenagers and young adults the app is no longer just a tool for sharing photos. It has evolved into a persistent digital environment that demands constant attention and shapes their sense of identity. Understanding why this happens requires looking past the colorful filters and into the very biology of the human brain.

    Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

    The Dopamine Circuitry of a Like

    At the heart of Instagram is a sophisticated system designed to trigger the reward centers of the mind. Every time a user receives a notification or sees a new like on their post the brain releases a small burst of dopamine. This is the same chemical associated with winning a jackpot or eating a favorite meal. Because these rewards are unpredictable users find themselves checking the app repeatedly in hopes of finding that next social validation.

    The design of the app utilizes what psychologists call variable ratio reinforcement. Since a person never knows exactly when a comment will arrive or who will view their story the uncertainty makes the behavior more addictive. This creates a loop where the phone is the first thing reached for in the morning and the last thing seen at night.

    Recent studies suggest that nearly forty percent of young adults feel somewhat addicted to social media with many spending upwards of five hours every single day scrolling through feeds.

    The Comparison Crisis and Self Worth

    Beyond the physical addiction there is a deep psychological impact driven by social comparison. Young people often view a curated stream of the best moments from the lives of others. This leads to a distorted perception of reality where everyone else seems more successful or attractive.

    • The Perfection Trap: Users often feel pressure to post only high quality and filtered content which creates a gap between their digital persona and their real life.
    • The Fear of Missing Out: Seeing friends at events or gatherings triggers a sense of isolation and anxiety often referred to as FOMO.
    • Declining Self Esteem: Constant upward comparison to celebrities or influencers can lead to significant dissatisfaction with ones own body and lifestyle.

    This digital mirror does not just reflect reality it magnifies insecurities. When self worth becomes tied to a number of followers or the speed of likes the individual loses their internal sense of value.

    Engineered for Infinite Engagement

    The architecture of Instagram is built to remove any natural stopping points. The infinite scroll feature ensures that as long as a user keeps swiping there is always more content to consume. There is no bottom of the page and no end to the stream. This lack of boundaries makes it incredibly easy to lose track of time. Use CatScraper to download from Instagram.

    Furthermore the algorithms are fine tuned to show content that provokes a strong emotional reaction. Whether it is a beautiful travel video or a controversial post the goal is to keep eyes on the screen for as long as possible. This constant stimulation has led to a global decline in attention spans with many young people struggling to focus on slow tasks like reading a book or completing a long school assignment.

    Breaking the Cycle

    The path away from addiction starts with awareness. Young people are beginning to realize that their time is being sold to advertisers and that their mental health is worth more than a trending reel. Implementing a digital detox or setting strict time limits on app usage can help restore balance. By reclaiming their attention the youth can move away from being passive consumers and return to being active participants in the physical world.

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