Other News In Brief

Infrastructure Minister Meets North West Regional Development Group

Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd has met the North West Regional Development Group to discuss a range of matters relating to infrastructure in the area.

The North West Regional Development Group (NWRDG) is a cross-border joint committee of Donegal County Council and Derry City and Strabane District Council focused on regional development and the enhancement of the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of the North West City Region. The Group is made up of Members from both Donegal County Council and Derry & Strabane District Council, along with senior executive officers from both Councils.

Speaking after the meeting John O'Dowd said: "Our discussions today re-affirmed our commitment to ensuring the development of the North West region. For too long the North West region has been left behind, now is the time to change that through our shared commitment to work together. We all want to see transport linkages strengthened. We are fully supportive of increased cross-border collaboration. My Department will play its part in taking forward the many infrastructure projects that are planned for the region and in doing so we will contribute to the development of the region."

Belfast City Airport Launch Flights To Barcelona And Bologna

Belfast City Airport has announced that the highly anticipated charter services to Barcelona and Bologna with Royal Caribbean International are now operational.

This enhanced flight service provides Belfast City Airport's passengers with direct routes to Barcelona and Bologna, enabling seamless connections to set sail on Oasis and Explorer of the Seas this summer.

With simplified travel arrangements, travellers can now enjoy a more effortless holiday experience.

Jennifer Callister, Head of Ireland Sales, Royal Caribbean, said: "We are excited to launch of these two eagerly awaited charter services from Belfast City Airport.

"As part of our commitment to making Royal Caribbean holidays as accessible as possible, chartering services with trusted airport partners is one of the most effective ways to ensure passengers enjoy a straightforward journey.

"Our excellent partnership with the Belfast City Airport team, coupled with our shared commitment to delivering the best possible passenger experience, has made this latest launch especially exciting for all involved, including our inaugural passengers."

Ellie McGimpsey, Aviation Development Manager, commented: "Building on the triumph of the 2023 summer service to Bologna, Belfast City Airport and Royal Caribbean have worked together to ensure its return this summer, as well introducing a new service to Barcelona.

"We look forward to welcoming passengers aboard these charter flights throughout the summer season, who can guarantee their journey will be off to the best start with our prime location, only five minutes from Belfast city centre."

Belfast City Airport was recently confirmed as the UK's Most Punctual Airport for 2023 and was also recognised at the prestigious Routes Europe 2024 Awards, designed to celebrate excellence in aviation.

For further information about Belfast City Airport's summer destinations and schedule, visit: www.belfastcityairport.com

Greens Welcomes Election Announcement

Green Party NI leader Mal O'Hara has welcomed the announcement of a General Election for 4th July 2024.

Speaking after the announcement by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Senator O'Hara said "After 14 years of Tory rule, which has been dominated by reckless Tory austerity, the dismantling of our vital public services and rolling back on green and environmental commitments, the public are ready to consign this rancid government to the dustbin of history."

"As Greens we will offer a programme around building a new green economy based on reducing bills, creating new jobs and apprenticeships and giving people back a sense of hope, fairness and transparency in politics. We will also highlight the continued failure of the current executive parties to get to grips with governing Northern Ireland and delivering on their committments."

"Voters will be given a choice between real climate action with the Greens, or climate dodging with the executive parties."