Study USA Programme Will Proceed This Year - Frew

Sixty one students from across Northern Ireland are set to study in the United States for the next academic year, after the Economy Minister Paul Frew confirmed that the Study USA programme will proceed.

Minister Frew said: "I am delighted that after careful assessment with our partners in the British Council, and associated colleges in the United States, I can announce that current conditions mean that the Study USA programme will proceed in the academic year 2021/22. This is particularly welcome given that the Covid-19 pandemic meant that the programme had to be paused last year. Following Queen's University and Ulster University's intention to return to face-to-face teaching in the incoming academic year, this is a further sign that, at this point, we expect students to have a more normal study environment in the next academic year.

"I would like to express my appreciation to our partners for their support for the successful students, the associate colleges in the US for their preparatory work in what had been uncertain times, as well as the hard work put in by the British Council which plays a key role in delivering the programme on the Department's behalf. Not only will the programme continue to strengthen our relationships with the US, it will also provide life-changing opportunities for those students who participate in it. This has been demonstrated by the success of those students who have participated over the past 27 years."

Belfast Lord Mayor Launches EastSide Arts Festival

People are being encouraged to "connect" with EastSide Arts Festival this summer, which has been announced to take place from 5-15 August.

Featuring 100+ artists across more than 80 events taking place both in-person and online, audiences can enjoy the festival at home, outdoors in person, or at a range of east Belfast locations.

Helping launched the event, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Kate Nicholl, said: "We're delighted to support the EastSide Arts Festival, one of our Cultural Multi-Annual Grant recipients. Belfast is proud of its thriving festival scene and these events play a vital role in our 10 year cultural strategy, A City Imagining.

"I'm impressed at how this year's festival is combining online activity with some in-person events as restrictions start to ease following a challenging period for our local arts sector. The EastSide Arts Festival promises to bring an incredible range of activities to celebrate and showcase local talent and I'd like to take this opportunity to wish the organisers and participating artists the best of luck."

Sinn Féin Welcomes Launched Of New Mental Health Strategy

Sinn Féin have welcomed the announcement of a new Mental Health Strategy alongside a funding plan.

West Belfast MLA Órlaithí Flynn said: "The publication of this new ten-year strategy and a funding plan is a welcome step towards improving mental health services and promoting mental wellbeing.

"More investment in services and staff must be central to the delivery of this plan alongside prevention, early intervention and promoting positive mental health.

"Mental Health must be a priority for the Department of Health and the Executive."