Other News In Brief

SF Accuse PM Of Irish Govt Snub

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been accused of "snubbing" the Irish Government since he came into office by one of Northern Ireland's main political parties.

Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill made the allegations following a meeting with the new Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Julian Smith, at Stormont.

Speaking later, the mid Ulster MLA slammed the lack of communication and the potential "disastrous" impact Brexit will have for the region.

She said: "Firstly, we raised with Julian Smith the failure of Boris Johnson to even speak to An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. That is highly offensive given the disastrous impact of Brexit on the island of Ireland.

"We told him that the people here voted to Remain and their wishes should be respected not trampled over.

"We also made it clear that talks to date have failed to face up to the core issues at the heart of the political impasse here.

"It is unacceptable that we are still without a power-sharing government and this British Government has been complicit in that through its repeated failure to implement agreements or to confront a denial of rights to citizens here that it would never tolerate in its own country."

North West Volunteers Receive Queen's Award

Volunteers at the annual North West 200 races have been honoured with a prestigious accolade for their service to the event.

22 organisations were presented with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in respect of their work at the motorbike racing championships.

The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Sean Bateson, held a special reception for the teams. Welcoming the guests to the Cloonavin council buildings he said: "This award is the highest form of recognition that can be granted to an organisation in recognition of the outstanding work of volunteers. My first civic engagement when I became Mayor was to attend the NW 200 and I was overwhelmed by the attention to detail and incredible dedication that the volunteers had in ensuring it was a seamless event. I wish them continued success and many more years of commitment to their community."

Chief Marshal and Volunteer Coordinator Cathal Cummings added: "The International North West 200 volunteers are deeply honoured to be nominated and achieve this very prestigious award. We have an incredible volunteer team who are passionate about the event celebrating its 90th anniversary.  This award is in recognition of their exceptional voluntary contribution of which we are so proud!"

Antrim Electrical Firm Celebrates Local Success

Antrim electrical company, FCS Ltd has enjoyed significant growth since its establishment two years ago.

The firm, which has secured a number of high profile contracts including the Electrical Testing Contract for the Grand Central Hotel, is now working with some of the largest pharmaceutical and construction firms in Northern Ireland, and the UK.

This £250,000 growth has allowed FCS to expand its workforce with four new appointments, with further vacancies expected soon.

The company has been supported by Amplify, a strategic framework for Mid and East Antrim which supports start-ups and businesses in the area.

Congratulating FCS Ltd on their achievements, Cllr Greg McKeen, Chair of Borough Growth said: "Amplify was created to boost the economy across the borough and I am delighted to see local businesses such as FCS Ltd succeeding.

"The support and opportunities available through 'Amplify' have helped to create a vibrant business culture within our borough and it is encouraging to hear businesses and entrepreneurs are receiving the support needed to grow and prosper.

"Our borough is blessed with an abundance of talent, it is crucial we work together to harness those skills and potential by providing practical advice and guidance for start-ups and established businesses, and in enabling our start-ups to realise their ambitions."

John Lorimer, Managing Director of FCS added: "I am delighted, at the successes we have achieved to date. I received support from council at crucial times in my journey, and I am thankful to have had that advice and guidance where I have needed it.

"This is only the beginning for FCS Ltd who have just secured a contract with the Herbert Group for 53 KFC stores. We have a great space here, and with over 20 years' experience within the electrical industry I have immediate plans to grow our team, with our expanding client portfolio.

"We pride ourselves on providing a personal service to all of our customers and would like to take this opportunity to personally thank them, and look forward to partnering with them for years to come."



(JG/MH)