Other News In Brief

Week-Long Initiative To Encourage Young People Into Digital Technology Careers

A week-long event to encourage young people across NI into a career in digital technologies, has been launched by the Minister for Education, Michelle McIlveen.

NI has one of the fastest growing tech sectors in the UK, with both home-grown and global digital technology companies now accounting for one in every seven job vacancies.

NI Digital Awareness Week, an initiative by locally based, global smart software provider Civica and partners across the worlds of industry and education, will give 11-18 years olds a chance to try their hand at coding and hear first-hand from experts in the worlds of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity and emerging technologies.

Running from 18-22 October, the event will feature over 20 virtual talks, panel discussions and live demos from organisations including Microsoft, BT, IBM, NI-based software consultancy Instil, Ulster University, Queen's University Belfast.

Speaking at the launch of NI Digital Awareness Week, Minister for Education, Michelle McIlveen MLA said: "Northern Ireland has such a fast-growing and exciting technology industry and it's vital that we encourage and nurture digital and STEM skills in our young people for the future.

"I'm pleased to show my support for NI Digital Awareness Week, which is an excellent opportunity for students to get more involved in new technologies. From coding to artificial intelligence, I look forward to seeing the inspirational ideas and innovation which will follow in the time ahead."

Major Revitalisation Scheme Announced For Dromore

Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has announced a £250,000 revitalisation scheme to support local businesses in Dromore.

The revitalisation funding will help enhance shop frontages, address derelict sites, encourage a pavement culture and improve signage in to the town.

Minister Hargey said: "This is a welcome boost for Dromore. My Department is investing a further £250,000 to support Dromore town centre after it has undergone substantial improvements to its streetscape through the recently completed public realm scheme.

"The funding my Department has provided through the public realm scheme and this new revitalise scheme demonstrate my ongoing commitment to the regeneration of our town and city centres.

"This injection of funding will help to further support the area, which in turn will assist local retailers, businesses, residents and visitors. Initiatives such as these help to make our town centres more appealing and sustain our local economy, all of which contributes to the long term viability and prosperity of the towns."  

The Dromore Revitalisation Programme will be managed by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

£180,000 LED Street Lighting Upgrade In Portadown

Portadown town centre is set to benefit from a £180,000 LED lighting upgrade scheme, which will start on Monday 18 October.

The scheme will involve the replacement of existing lights with a new LED street lighting system. The new LED lighting system will retain the architectural style and appearance of the original lanterns and will improve the night time environment, through improved quality and uniformity of lighting. The scheme will extend from Bridge Street up to Hanover Street and includes William Street, Thomas Street, Edward Street, Mandeville Street, West Street and Woodhouse Street.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: "This significant investment will benefit everyone who travels and works in the area. I am committed to addressing the issues which matter most to people and street lighting services are crucial in ensuring those driving, cycling, wheeling and walking can do so safely within their communities.

"This investment provides new LED lighting technology in Portadown Town Centre. It is important that adequate street lighting not only improves the quality of lighting but is also more energy efficient, given my commitment to climate action.

"I would like to thank the public and local residents in advance for their cooperation and ask that they comply with all temporary traffic restrictions while these much needed works are completed."

Portadown town centre is set to benefit from a £180,000 LED lighting upgrade scheme, which will commence on Monday 18 October 2021.

The scheme will involve the replacement of existing lights with a new LED street lighting system. The new LED lighting system will retain the architectural style and appearance of the original lanterns and will improve the night time environment, through improved quality and uniformity of lighting. The scheme will extend from Bridge Street up to Hanover Street and includes William Street, Thomas Street, Edward Street, Mandeville Street, West Street and Woodhouse Street.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: "This significant investment will benefit everyone who travels and works in the area. I am committed to addressing the issues which matter most to people and street lighting services are crucial in ensuring those driving, cycling, wheeling and walking can do so safely within their communities.

"This investment provides new LED lighting technology in Portadown Town Centre. It is important that adequate street lighting not only improves the quality of lighting but is also more energy efficient, given my commitment to climate action.

"I would like to thank the public and local residents in advance for their cooperation and ask that they comply with all temporary traffic restrictions while these much needed works are completed."