Other News In Brief

Police Investigating Knife Attack In Banbridge

An investigation has been launched after a man was slashed with a knife in a serious incident in Banbridge, Co Down.

According to reports, the man suffered a significant wound when he was slashed "near the throat". It is understood that he was attempting to help another man when he was attacked.

Police have described the incident as "totally reckless and brutal".

It is understood that the incident occurred between 2 and 3am this morning, in the Scarva Street area of the town.

Police are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with information, to contact them on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800555 111.

New Welding Academy Launched In Dungannon

A new Assured Skills Welding Academy, offering 13 people the opportunity to gain the skills needed to start a career in welding, has been launched by the Department for the Economy and South West College.

The Academy will provide five weeks of industry-relevant pre-employment training followed by a two-week placement in a welding role in a company in the wider Dungannon area.

Participants who complete the Academy will gain a Level 2 City and Guilds Award in Welding Skills and secure a guaranteed job interview.

Ann Williamson, Head of Employer Skills at the Department for the Economy, said: "This is an excellent opportunity to gain skills that are in high demand in Northern Ireland and particularly in County Tyrone. This collaborative training in a college and workplace setting not only benefits participants, but will help ensure that local companies have access to the skilled workforce they need to continue to grow.

"No experience or qualifications are needed. Anyone interested in a career in welding should apply!"

Academy participants will receive a weekly training allowance and travel expenses, and may be eligible for childcare allowance.

Ciaran McManus, Head of Industry and Training at South West College, welcomed the new Assured Skills Academy: "South West College is committed to supporting local business and industry to access expertise and upskill their people. This Assured Skills Academy in welding will build on the success of a range of programmes which have upskilled people to support the needs of industry."

Successful applicants to the SWC Assured Skills Welding Academy will carry out five weeks of training at SWC's Dungannon campus and a two-week placement in one of the following companies:

• Caledon Precision, Caledon

• MCD Engineering Ltd, Dungannon

• TBC Ltd, Dungannon

• Maximus Crushing and Screening, Dungannon

• Northern Hydraulics Ltd, Dungannon

• Specdrum Engineering, Dungannon

• Lagan Engineering, Dungannon

• Kiverco Ltd, Dungannon

• McCloskey International, Dungannon

• SFM Engineering Ltd, Keady

• Burrows Engineering, Cookstown

• Steelweld Fabrications Ltd, Cookstown.

No experience or qualifications are required to apply. Applicants must be at least 18 years old by Monday 13 January 2020 and be eligible to work in the UK.

Major Resurfacing Scheme To Get Underway In Dungannon

The Department for Infrastructure have announced that a £160,000 resurfacing scheme on Donaghmore Road in Dungannon will begin on Monday 25 November.

The scheme extends a distance of approximately 650 metres from Newell Road to Anne Street and includes resurfacing of the adjacent footway.

Given the nature of the works and the restricted road width, it will be necessary to operate a two way road closure between the hours of 8.00 am and 5.00 pm from Monday 25 November until Friday 29 November and again on Monday 02 December and Tuesday 03 December.

During the road closure through traffic will be diverted via Quarry Lane, Thomas Street, Greer's Road and Anne Street. Advanced warning signage for the closure has been provided. Local access for residents and businesses will be facilitated.

Completion of the scheme by Tuesday 03 December will be dependent on favourable weather conditions however the Department will keep the public informed if there are any changes.