Other News In Brief

GRAHAM Appoints Operations Director For Interior Fit-Out Division

GRAHAM has appointed Sean McNiff as its new Operations Director for the GRAHAM Interior Fit-Out division.

Sean will be based at the Hillsborough headquarters and will lead the division's strategic direction and growth, supported by a talented team of 90 employees across the business’ offices in Hillsborough, London, Glasgow, and Leeds.

Sean joined GRAHAM in April 2019 as a Design Manager, bringing with him 15 years of experience in architecture.

His extensive background includes managing significant projects such as the HMRC Erskine House Belfast, 35 Donegall Place Belfast, 6 Atlantic Quay Glasgow, and the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre major refurbishment.

As M&S Account Manager, Sean oversaw various projects, including the new Full Line Stores in the Bullring and the Trafford Centre and new Foodhalls in Coleraine, Banbridge and Linlithgow, among others.

In his new role as Operations Director, Sean will focus on providing strategic direction to the Interior Fit-Out division, enhancing its operations, and driving growth.

He will do this by spearheading the continuation of exceptional service delivery to its current clients and developing new strategic relationships.

"A key objective for us in 2024/25 is to build on our experience within the London market by investing in the establishment of a London-based fit-out team," Sean said. "We will see this develop through our collaborative relationships and provide a sector-specific focus for generating new opportunities."

Summer Rose Fair Returns To Belfast In July

The Summer Rose Fair returns to Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 July (12 noon to 5pm) with a vibrant array of activities for all ages to celebrate the summer.

One of Belfast City Council’s top seasonal events, Summer Rose Fair is free to visit, with an exciting programme of musical theatre, live bands, food demos, a Wellness Oasis and the chance to see thousands of award-winning roses on display from rose breeders.

Judging of the City of Belfast International Rose Trials will take place at the park on Friday 19 July. Other highlights of the 2024 Summer Rose Fair include:

• a variety of musical theatre performances including Beauty and the Beast;

performances from Trim the Velvet, combining ballet and traditional Irish dance;

live music from local bands and artists, including James Huish and his band;

tempting food demonstrations by award-winning chef Will Brown;

• a tranquil Wellness Oasis, offering yoga, reflexology and Indian head massage;

• a bustling kids' zone with carnival rides, arts and crafts, lawn games and more;

• a wide range of food vendors and market stalls offering delicious treats and unique crafts;

the stunning City of Belfast International Rose Garden with thousands of award-winning blooms.

Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Andrew McCormick, said: "We’'e thrilled that Summer Rose Fair is returning to Belfast this year with a diverse and exciting programme of activities for all to enjoy. Join us for a memorable summer weekend on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 July, filled with the beauty of nature, the joy of music and delicious food, where you can also savour the scents and colours of thousands of beautiful award-winning roses on display at the park."

First Minister Attends Annual National Day Of Commemoration In Dublin

First Minister Michelle O'Neill has attended the annual National Day of Commemoration in Dublin on Sunday, 14 July.

This year's event was held in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham and was attended by President of Ireland Michael D Higgins, Taoiseach Simon Harris and political and church leaders from across Ireland.

Speaking after the ceremony, Michelle O'Neill said: "I was privileged to be part of this event which honours all those Irish people who died in past wars."

The First Minister also laid a wreath at the Irish National War Memorial to commemorate the Battle of the Somme. The event was hosted by the Royal British Legion with the assistance of the Irish Government.

She said: "I laid a wreath to remember the thousands of people from across this island who lost their lives in the Battle of the Somme.

"As First Minister I represented the Executive to remember this significant part of our shared history."