Other News In Brief

L'Derry To Remember Those Killed In Conflict

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Michaela Boyle, is set to hold a special Day of Reflection in memory of all those who have lost their lives through conflict.

People are invited to gather in Guildhall Square at 1pm on Thursday 05 December to pay tribute to all those who have lost their lives due to war or conflict. This will be a cross community and non-denominational event which is open to everyone, regardless of race, religion or culture.

The event offers a neutral platform for remembrance so local people can come together to share their experiences of loss.

"I think it's immensely important that we take the time to remember those we have lost during times of trouble and conflict," Mayor Boyle commented.

"Sadly most families will have lost a loved one, or will be close to people who have lost relatives in tragic circumstances.

"It's important for us to come together as a community, to pay our respects and share our memories of those who are gone. It's a chance to reflect on the peace that we are still building and to pledge our commitment to nurturing that peace for future generations."

The Mayor's day of Reflection was first established in 2016, when a special plaque was unveiled in memory of all victims of conflict. The event will feature music and some words of reflection by the Mayor and other community figures.

Think Before You Get A Dog This Christmas, Warns NI Council

With the festive season fast approaching, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is reminding members of the public of the responsibilities that come with owning a dog.

"While getting a new pet can be a wonderful experience, it's important to be mindful of your obligations as a dog owner," a council spokesperson warned.

"All dogs need to be walked every day, no matter what the weather is or how busy you are. Dogs that don't get enough exercise can become bored and engage in destructive behaviour like chewing furniture and barking which may annoy your neighbours. Your dog will need to go to the toilet and you will have to lift its poop from your garden or carry bags for when you are out and about. It's an offence to allow your dog to foul and then fail to pick it up."

Potential dog owners are urged to weigh up the financial costs associated with having a pet, including food purchases, regular vet checks or veterinary treatment for injuries or disease.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council recommends that you only buy from a registered dog breeder. You should be able to go to the breeder's premises and see the parent dogs and be satisfied you are buying from a healthy and safe place. All puppies should be at least 8 weeks old before you can take them home and the breeder should be able to show you any relevant vaccinations records.

"Do not buy a puppy that looks sick, underweight or too young," the spokesperson advised.

"All puppies have to be microchipped in order for you to obtain a dog licence.

"If you are sure you can walk, care for and feed your dog daily, and can afford to pay veterinary costs, grooming and food bills then a dog could be a well behaved companion who is content and happy.

"Remember, a dog is for life not just for Christmas"

Dog licences can be obtained online. Call 028 2766 0233 for more information.

£1.8m Sports Hub Opens In Dundonald

A new state-of-the-art sports hub has opened in the suburbs of Belfast.

The £1.8 million Ballybeen Sport & Wellbeing Hub in Dundonald features a new full size grass football pitch realigned on the site, a new enclosed and floodlit 3G training MUGA pitch, changing pavilion, roadside parking and footpaths.

It was developed by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council in partnership with the local community group Ballybeen Improvement Group (BIG).

Speaking at the official opening, Alderman James Tinsley, Chairman of the council's Leisure & Community Development Committee, said: "Discussions on this new sports hub have been taking place for a few years; and we are delighted that it has been opened within a year of planning permission being received. This new sports hub is the latest addition to our assets and we now hand over the responsibility of managing it to BIG, the local community group. We are confident that local football teams and schools will use it all year round and the extended path network around the facility compliments the local highway to heath initiative.

"Community spirit, health and wellbeing are very important within Lisburn Castlereagh and these new facilities will attract sports players, coaches and teams in addition to uniting families at cross-community sports events and matches. I wish BIG every success as it manages this new facility and we hope that everyone respects this space that is for the enjoyment of everyone."

The project was supported with £160,000 funding from the European Union's PEACE IV Programme, which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body. Match-funding would also have been provided by The Executive Office in Northern Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development in Ireland.



(JG/CM)