Other News In Brief

Version 1 Offer 20 New Digital Skills Training Places

Twenty new high quality training places have been announced at the Accelerate Digital Assured Skills Academy with IT Consulting, Solutions and Managed Services delivery provider Version 1.

Funded by the Department for the Economy, the Assured Skills Academy will see successful applicants receive practical, real world training for roles as Cloud Engineers, Dev Ops Engineers, Software Developers and Test Automation Engineers during an eight week training course delivered by Belfast Met.

Encouraging application to the Academy, Economy Minister Gordon Lyons said: "This is an excellent opportunity to start a career in digital engineering. The industry here is in need of skilled people and this Accelerate Digital Skills Academy will give participants the knowledge and skills they need to compete for a job in this exciting sector.

"Assured Skills Academies have a successful track record in providing people with high quality training while helping employers access the skilled people they need to grow. These training places, funded by my Department, will position participants strongly to compete for a job with Version 1 in this exciting sector and I would encourage anyone who is eligible to consider applying now."

Participants who complete the course will be guaranteed a job interview with Version 1, although successful completion of the Academy is not a guarantee of gaining employment.

£125,000 Cycleway Scheme Underway In Drumahoe

The Department for Infrastructure has announced that a new £125,000 cycleway/footway scheme on the A6 Glenshane Road, Drumahoe has gotten underway.

The works will extend along the northern side of the A6 Glenshane Road, Drumahoe to provide approximately 570 metres of new cycleway/footway from the Drumahoe Road junction towards Drumahoe District Park. This new cycleway/footway aims to connect Drumahoe village to Drumahoe District Park and the existing cycleway/footway network in the wider area.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon welcomed the scheme: "This scheme is part of my commitment to the delivery of active travel schemes across the North and to making walking, wheeling and cycling a safer and more attractive option for people getting around. This will greatly enhance provision for cyclists and pedestrians and provide further opportunities for active travel.

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

Dept For Infrastructure Criticised For Habitat Destruction

Alliance have criticised the Department for Infrastructure for the destruction of natural habitats along the Lagan near Stranmillis Weir.

Last week, as part of flood alleviation work, the Department for Infrastructure removed hedgerows and trees that were previously home to a variety of wildlife.

Calling for a funded implementation plan to assist restoration, paula Bradshaw said: "Local residents are outraged that officials allowed this irreversible destruction of trees, hedgerows and wildlife without any advanced notice being given to the local community," said Ms Bradshaw.

"Whilst the habitats cannot be easily replaced, I have contacted the Department for Infrastructure to prevent further damage and to call for a funded implementation plan to help restore some biodiversity. Answers must be provided to constituents around the reasoning behind the decision as the action seems completely counter-productive, particularly in regards to the Department's environmental responsibilities.

"This area is a valuable green space at the heart of our constituency and the loss will not just be hard felt by residents but by all those who enjoy walking and cycling through this natural beauty."