Other News In Brief

Belfast Lord Mayor Welcomes WorK Of Age-Friendly Summer Programme

Belfast Lord Mayor Kate Nicholl has celebrated the work of Belfast City Council'c Age-friendly team and their Summer Programme of events for older people.

Throughout July and August, organised walks have been held in parks across the city encouraging seniors in Belfast to enjoy time together and participate in exercise in a safe and socially distanced way.

Having joined the group at Sir Thomas & Lady Dixon Park last week and Councillor Nicholl said: "After so much uncertainty over the past 18 months, it was heart warming to see these groups of people back out together, enjoying the summer weather and the beautiful parks that we have on our doorstep.

"The Age-friendly team have provided a much needed opportunity for older people to reconnect, have a chat and socialise again and although the summer may be coming to an end, there is much to look forward to ahead of Positive Ageing Month in October with a host of activities planned and I am very much looking forward to getting involved."

New Assured Skills Collaborative Welding Academy Announced

A new Assured Skills Collaborative Welding Academy at South West College, with 12 training places available, has been announced by Economy Minister Gordon Lyons.

The Assured Skills Collaborative Academy will see successful applicants receive industry-standard welding training during a six-week course at South West College’s new welding training facility in Cookstown.

Participants who complete the Academy are guaranteed an interview for a welding position at one of 12 companies in Dungannon and the surrounding area.

Announcing the Academy, the Minister said: "The Mid Ulster area has a strong and resilient manufacturing and engineering sector which makes an important contribution to our economy. This Assured Skills Academy with South West College, the fourth in a series of seven welding Academies, underlines my Department’s commitment to developing the skills that are needed in this area.

"People with welding skills are in high demand in our local engineering and manufacturing sector.

"Assured Skills Academies equip participants with the skills they need, through an industry-recognised qualification, and position them very strongly to kick-start a new career in welding. No experience in welding is required – I urge anyone who is interested to apply."

SF Welcome Report On South Armagh Policing

Sinn Féin MLA Conor Murphy has welcomed a report into policing in South Armagh and said if implemented can lead to a ‘new beginning’ to policing in the area.

The Newry/Armagh MLA said: "The launch of a report into policing in South Armagh today is a huge development for the people of the area and if properly implemented, can finally deliver real policing with the community.

"Some of 50 recommendations in the report include the closure of a militaristic barracks in Crossmaglen, the removal of assault rifles on routine patrols and Irish signage on police stations.

"The report also recommends setting up an Independent Advisory Group and we will explore in greater detail its remit, powers and who will be represented on it.

"All of these recommendations can begin to change the image of policing in South Armagh by removing the negative, militaristic style of the past which has damaged community relations.

"This report must lead to a new beginning for policing in this area to rebuild the trust and confidence of the local community. Sinn Féin is committed to working with everyone to ensure that our policing service is fit for purpose."