Other News In Brief

DAERA Minister's EIP Approval Efforts Commended

John Blair MLA, Alliance's Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Spokesperson, has praised the DAERA Minister for efforts to secure NI Executive approval for the Environment Improvement Plan (EIP).

The Environment Act 2021 requires the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to publish an Environment Improvement Plan by July 2023. However, this deadline was missed due to the DUP's boycott of the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive.

Alliance Minister Andrew Muir MLA presented a proposed Environment Improvement Plan (EIP) to the Executive in March, following his appointment in February 2024, but it is still awaiting approval.

The South Antrim MLA said: "The publication of Northern Ireland’s first EIP is now more urgent than ever. Currently, the Office of Environmental Protection might serve notice on DAERA, despite the Minster having a plan ready and awaiting approval, due to no Executive agreement.

"We are observing the daily consequences of the delay in implementing this Plan, these include threats to our food supply due to excessive rainfall, persistent problems with water quality, and the possibility of more blue-green algal blooms forming in Lough Neagh and other areas of Northern Ireland.

"This plan can be a significant milestone and give clear direction on how to combat the decline of our natural environment. Ultimately, it can help us focus our efforts on restoring the natural environment, tackling environmental pollution, and achieving a greener economy.

"The responsibility now lies with the NI Executive and in particular anyone or any party holding up progress on this. They must step up and act in the interests of Northern Ireland and protect its environment."

Bidvest Noonan Secures Major Higher Education Contracts

Bidvest Noonan has successfully secured and maintained major contracts in the higher education sector.

The company has won a new contract to provide cleaning services for a top UK university in a major city. This partnership further expands Bidvest Noonan’s presence in the education sector, enhancing its portfolio of academic institutions served. Additionally, the company has extended its contract to provide security and cleaning services for a prominent university in the UK, maintaining a partnership that has spanned over a decade. This retention highlights the long-standing relationship and ongoing collaboration between Bidvest Noonan and the university, which is also based in a major urban centre.

These universities collectively serve nearly 60,000 students across various disciplines. Under these contracts, Bidvest Noonan will service five large campuses. Both institutions are renowned for their academic excellence and research contributions.

Fintan Connolly, Chief Customer Officer, said: "These contracts highlight the trust and confidence that educational institutions place in Bidvest Noonan’s services. We have built a very strong portfolio in the higher education sector, and our capabilities and expertise allow us to meet the unique needs of these institutions. The dedication and expertise of our teams have been instrumental in securing these partnerships."

£5,000 Grant Brings Joy to Special Schools' Summer Programmes

Students at SEN schools in Antrim and Newtownabbey, including Riverside, Jordanstown, Rostulla, Hill Croft, and Thornfield, are enjoying a vibrant Summer Scheme funded by a £5,000 Council grant.

With this funding, the schools have introduced a variety of engaging activities and resources for the children. Pupils have delighted in kite-making, Wee Critters, Kidz Farm, and Rich Music, among other activities. The funding has also allowed for the purchase of new equipment that will benefit future academic years.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly said: "It was wonderful to visit Hill Croft School in Newtownabbey and Riverside School in Antrim for their Summer Schemes and witness first-hand the enriching activities made possible by this funding. Seeing the children's excitement and engagement in these activities was truly heart-warming."

Caitlín McCann from Riverside School stated: "Riverside School is so appreciative of the funding we have received from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. It has allowed us to provide an excellent Summer Scheme for our pupils across two weeks - packed with a variety of activities, fun and laughter. Our pupils all have severe learning difficulties and their summer holidays can often be very long for them and their families, and so our School Summer Scheme has been a massive support. Our pupils, families and extended Riverside Family will be forever grateful for the Council’s support."