Farmers Hit Paris Show

Six Northern Ireland beef and sheep farmers will be travelling to the SIAL International Food Show in Paris this October with the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) to scrutinise the world market for red meat. Whilst at the show the farmers will be tasked with examining the Northern Ireland competition to see how they promote and market their beef and lamb both in their own domestic markets as well as overseas. The farmers will also have the opportunity to meet with international meat buyers to see what exactly they look for in terms of product, price and service. This exploratory mission will enable farmers to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced on the open world market as well as the pressures faced. Jelmer Hania LMC's Export Development Executive and organiser of the Northern Ireland show stand said: "The six producers have a great opportunity at this show to meet, probably for the first time, with international red meat buyers and ask them what exactly it is they look for when buying beef and lamb. This show is really like a huge shop window for meat and with 30 countries represented it will certainly prove to be an eye opener. We envisage that this show will prove to be as busy and successful as last year in Cologne and hope that the six producers value the insight and exposure it gives them."

Rural 'On The Buses'

NI Transport Minister Conor Murphy has handed over the keys of 30 fully accessible minibuses to representatives of Rural Community Transport Partnerships. The minibuses, which were procured by Translink for the Department for Regional Development at a cost of £1.3m, will be used by the partnerships to provide specialised transport services in rural areas throughout the north. At the event, which took place at Parliament Buildings, the Minister said: "I am delighted to hand over these vehicles and hope that this clearly demonstrates our commitment to providing better access to training, job opportunities and recreation to those people in our rural communities. I believe by providing support to our Rural Partnerships we help to tackle the factors that all too often lead to social exclusion. This support should ensure the continuation of high quality transport services in rural areas."

Suicide Watch

All parts of society have a role to play in helping tackle the issue of suicide and self-harm. Speaking at an event to highlight Lifeline, the Regional Crisis Helpline, the NI Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey said: "Suicide represents a tragic loss of life and addressing the issue should be a key priority for everyone in our society. Lifeline is a vital resource for the people of Northern Ireland and an important step forward in our efforts to reduce suicide. For people in crisis, Lifeline provides a vital 24/7 Northern Ireland-wide service. The helpline is about saving lives and it is responding to very significant demand from across Northern Ireland. Call activity is currently in excess of 1,500 calls per week. The need is out there and Lifeline is responding to that need."

Renew! Says Energy Minister

Renewable energy consumption in Northern Ireland has more than doubled in the last three years, according to the Energy Minister. The largest growth was seen within the wind farming sector - a sign that the Province is entering a 'New Energy Era', Arlene Foster has claimed. Minister Foster, speaking at the Irish Wind Energy Association's (IWEA) autumn Conference in Belfast, said renewable energy development continues to be at the forefront of her agenda.

(BMcC)