Call For Code Of Practice For Japenese Knotweed To Be Strengthened

South Down SDLP MLA Seán Rogers has requested a meeting with the Minister for the Environment Mark H Durkan with a view to strengthening the Code of Practice for Japanese Knotweed.

Mr Rogers said: "I have been approached by a number of local residents and have viewed first-hand the presence of Japanese Knotweed in various locations within Newcastle.

"Japanese Knotweed is a non-native invasive species of plant – which is not just an issue for our wildlife but its vigorous growth can significantly damage the built environment – growing at a rate of approx. 10cms per day. Its presence in the vicinity of our local watercourses greatly adds to my concerns as this weed has the potential to undermine flood defences. It is also much more difficult to treat near waterways, due to the strength of the weed and the necessity for certain pesticides to be used.

"I welcome the fact that Down District Council's plan to eradicate the weed in Island's Park has completed its first of a three year cycle that is needed to deal with this invasive weed and praise needs to be given to the officials involved in this protracted process. However my fear is its presence and ability to spread on private lands.

"There is a code of practice for dealing with Japanese Knotweed but I firmly believe that this code needs to be strengthened in order to bring it intoline with current legislation in Scotland.

"This needs to be stopped and stopped quickly – whilst ensuring that our rivers remain pollution free."

ICTU Requests For An End To Academic Selection

Education Minister, John O'Dowd, has welcomed calls by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions for an end to academic selection.

The union has published a new leaflet 'Academic Selection – Fail' saying, "Now is the time for an end to academic selection at 11".

Welcoming this new campaign by the ICTU, the Minister said: "The continued use of academic selection by grammar schools is a barrier to addressing educational underachievement in disadvantaged communities. The campaign to end academic selection is not only an educational issue, it is an equality issue.

"I welcome the leaflet campaign from the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and I urge others to follow up on their opposition to academic selection and rejection with action.

"Many political parties, churches, academics, business and civic groups oppose academic selection. What is needed from them now is to turn that opposition into viable and visible action."

Minister Officially Opens Apartments In Enniskillen

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has officially opened the Westville Watersedge Apartments in Enniskillen.

The complex of 12 self-catering apartments overlooking Lough Rossole and Lough Erne, has been awarded four-star status under the Northern Ireland Tourist Board's Accommodation Quality Grading Scheme.

Speaking after the official opening, the Minister said: "Visitors come to Enniskillen to enjoy our beautiful natural landscapes, as well as our visitor attractions, and it is important that we have a full mix of accommodation available to make their stay as pleasurable as possible.

"This luxurious complex of serviced apartments is a marvellous addition to our existing accommodation assets in Fermanagh. Providing all the comforts of a hotel stay, with the added freedom and independence of a private space, the apartments will appeal to families and groups looking for an affordable getaway."

(CD/JP)