Other News In Brief

Nora Quoirin's Funeral Held In Belfast

The funeral of tragic teenager Nora Quoirin has been held in Belfast.

Hundreds attended the Requiem Mass at St Brigid's Church today, Tuesday 10 September, the same location where she was baptised as a child.

Nora's body was recovered in a dense jungle area near the Malaysian resort where she was holidaying on 13 August.

A post-mortem examination found she had died from internal bleeding that was likely caused by hunger and stress during the 10 days she was missing.

The vulnerable teenager's family believed she was abducted from the Dusan Resort, however Malaysian police said there was no suspicion of foul play in her death.

Publication Of Suicide Stategy 'First Step In Tackling Suicide'- SF

Sinn Féin MLA Órlaithí Flynn has welcomed the publication of the Protect Life 2 suicide prevention strategy and called for its full implementation.

The Department of Health strategy aims to reduce suicide rates by 10% in the next five years, with a specific focus on deprived areas where the issue is more prevalent.

"Suicide has a devastating impact on families and communities," the west Tyrone MLA said.

"I welcome the objective to reduce deaths by suicide by ten percent. However, we must remember that all suicides are preventable.

"The Trust's are working towards a zero suicide approach and the rolling out of street triage and crisis de-escalation programmes.

"The focus should now be on the full implementation of the strategy and the delivery of services in partnership with communities and support organisations.

"I will be seeking clarification on the funding of this strategy and if the additional monies required are secured going forward."

Antrim Businesses To Improve Shop Frontages

Businesses in Antrim town centre are set to benefit from upgraded shop frontages following a new investment.

Funding of £100,000 has been announced to support businesses in the Fountain Street/Bridge Street area. Successful applicants will use the funds to make improvements including to their façade, signage and shutters.

The Department for Communities (DfC) is investing £88,000, with a further £12,000 coming from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

Paul Carr from DfC said: "The Department is making significant investments in Antrim town centre to support local businesses and the economy in the town. This further investment will complement the public realm improvements underway in the town and is a great opportunity for local businesses to improve the appearance of their premises, showcase the environment and encourage shoppers and visitors to spend time and money within the commercial core of Antrim town centre."

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, Alderman John Smyth commented: "I am delighted and would like to thank the Department for Communities for their funding of £88,000, with a further £12,000 being contributed by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council to the Fountain Street Antrim Revitalisation Scheme. This will support existing town traders in the development of their businesses and improve the attractiveness of shop frontages and enhance the visitor experience to Antrim. I welcome this initiative which builds upon successful regeneration and public realm schemes. The renovation of our town centres is a key priority for the Council to help sustain and grow vital services to our local community."

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is currently accepting applications from eligible businesses until 20 September 2019.



(JG/CM)