Other News In Brief

Northern Ireland Frailty Network Launched

The Northern Ireland Frailty Network has been launched by Dr Michael McBride, the Chief Medical Officer and Robert Ferguson, a service user and Ambassador for Age NI.

Frailty is when someone is less able to cope and recover from accidents, physical illness and other stressful events. The network has been established using transformation funding secured through the Department of Health and will connect a wide range of people and organisations who play a part in caring for those living with frailty. It will also place a strong focus on prevention.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Ferguson told the audience of his personal experience of living with frailty and offered his wholehearted support to the network, expressing his confidence that good user involvement can improve the lives of those who are frail.

Anyone wishing to join the NI Frailty Network can do so by emailing frailtynetwork@hscni.net.

Book Of Condolence For Sri Lanka Attacks Opened At Belfast City Hall

A book of condolence for those killed in the Sri Lanka attacks on Easter Sunday, 21 April, has opened in Belfast City Hall.

A series of explosions at churches and high-end hotels across the city is believed to have killed at least 359 people, while more than 500 were wounded.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Deirdre Hargey launched the book today joined by the High Sheriff of Belfast, Alderman Tommy Sandford. Reverend Dr Maithrie White, who was born in Sri Lanka but now lives in Northern Ireland also attended.

£180k Refurbishments To Commence On Enniskillen Boardwalk

A number of refurbishment works are set to get underway on a boardwalk in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh.

The £180,000 project will see the replacement and improvement of the existing timber structure, which runs beneath Inis Ceithleann and East Bridges.

The boardwalk forms part of the proposed national Blueways Trail Project, completing a trail around the island town of Enniskillen and complementing the range of water-based activity available at the Water Activity Zone at Regal Pass.

The boardwalk refurbishment scheme will get underway on Monday 29 April 2019.

Speaking about the Enniskillen Boardwalk Refurbishment project, Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Howard Thornton, said: "We are pleased to work in partnership with Waterways Ireland on this scheme. I am delighted to see the start of this refurbishment project which will replace and upgrade the existing boardwalk. I feel it will greatly enhance Enniskillen, making it even more attractive for local people and visitors to the area."

John Boyle, Director of Business Development at Waterways Ireland added: "The upgrade of the boardwalk is an important feature for the future development of the Blueway in Enniskillen which will enhance the area for tourists and recreational users alike. We welcome the support by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council in the project, and look forward to future collaborations with the Council to increase the level of activity on and along the water."

The Enniskillen boardwalk is scheduled for completion by summer 2019.



(JG/CM)