Other News In Brief

Michelle O'Neill Makes Surprise Visit To Her Old Primary School

First Minister Michelle O'Neill has made a surprise visit to her old primary school, Primate Dixon in Coalisland.

The Minister faced some tough questions from P6 pupils and also heard about their winter breakfast initiative.

Speaking after her visit Michelle O'Neill said: "I want to thank Principal Seán Dillon for inviting me here. I have visited Primate Dixon many times over the years but this was a really special day for me as I returned as First Minister.

"The P6 pupils really put me through my paces with some excellent questions about my new role and the often damaging impact of social media and smart phones on children.

"I was so impressed by how bright, intelligent and articulate the pupils are and how aware they are of what is happening in the world."

During her visit, Michelle O'Neill heard about the school's 'Winter Toast for All' scheme which ensures all pupils receive toast for breakfast during the winter months.

Continuing the First Minister said: "I have so many happy memories of Primate Dixon. It is so lovely to see that staff continue to nurture and develop their pupils, in the same way they did for me.

"All our children deserve the very best start in life. They deserve to go to great schools, with inspiring and supportive teachers and have every opportunity to become the best they can be. I hope I inspired some pupils to follow their dreams and believe in themselves – the world is theirs for the taking."

Communities Ministers Hears Concerns From Voluntary And Community Groups

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has met with representatives from voluntary and community groups in Northern Ireland to discuss the ongoing issues facing the sector.

Department for Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has met with representatives from voluntary and community groups in Northern Ireland to discuss the ongoing issues facing the sector.

At the meeting, hosted by the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) the Minister heard about the challenges facing the Sector, including funding uncertainties, increased demand for services, and the ongoing pressures caused by increased costs. Minister Lyons said: "Voluntary and community groups play a vital role in supporting communities across Northern Ireland.

"I have heard from leaders right across sector about the challenges of delivery at a time of increased costs and a rising demand for services.

"I want to pay tribute to the hundreds of organisations, their staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to deliver real and lasting change for people.

"I will continue to engage with the sector to ensure continued delivery of services to those who most need them in our communities across Northern Ireland."

Welcoming the Minister to NICVA, Chief Executive Celine McStravick said: "I'm delighted to host discussions with the Minister for Communities Gordon Lyons and NICVA on the significant role the voluntary and community sector plays in underpinning economic and social well-being.

"Our sector faces immense pressures yet continues to step up through every crisis, providing a range of support and services to ensure that communities thrive and flourish.  We look forward to working in partnership to move today's dialogue into actionable solutions."

The Department for Communities provides around £905,000 annually to NICVA and its partners through its Regional Infrastructure Support Programme to support organisations who play a supporting, co-ordinating or development role in relation to the voluntary and community sector through training, co-ordination, and guidance.

Economy Minister Welcomes News Of New Chair For Invest NI

Economy Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed the appointment of John Healy OBE as the new Chair of Invest NI.

Minister Murphy said: "I am delighted that John Healy has taken post as the new Chair of Invest NI. John has extensive private sector and Board experience which will be very valuable in his role as Chair. Invest NI has a key role to play in delivering my vision for a regionally balanced economy and I look forward to working with John as we make this vision a reality."

The Minister added: "I am grateful to Colm McKenna for acting as Interim Chair of Invest NI over the last twelve months. His commitment and leadership have laid important foundations upon which the new Chair can build."