Other News In Brief

'Visit Somewhere New' During European Heritage Open Days 2024

People have been invited to "visit somewhere new" this autumn and explore Northern Ireland's historic landmarks and hidden heritage as part of European Heritage Open Days (EHOD) 2024.

Now in its 27th year, more than 250 buildings, venues and sites will be opening free of charge on September 14th and 15th in a weekend long celebration of local architecture, history and culture.

Launching this year's event at the Ulster Aviation Society, which will open its authentic Second World War aircraft hangars during EHOD 2024, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said: "European Heritage Open Days is a fantastic opportunity to visit our local heritage and try out new experiences, all of which are free to explore.

"It's a showcase for the diversity of our heritage, encouraging people to seek out hidden gems and discover unique historic buildings, monuments and landmarks, many of which aren't normally open to visitors.

"This year's event offers access to over 250 properties and events so there is something for everyone, from stately homes and gardens to industrial heritage and guided walks round some of our historical towns and villages.

"The theme is 'Routes, Connections and Networks – links in our heritage' and the programme offers the chance to bring people together to celebrate their shared heritage, community and history."

Minister Lyons adds: "There really is something for everyone, from self-guided visits and family adventures to walk and talk interactive experiences. I am pleased to see the growing popularity of EHOD and the success year on year is thanks to the drive and enthusiasm of wide range of communities, individuals and volunteers. Plan your weekend adventure by downloading the WebApp or e-brochure and visit somewhere new."

Highlights this year include:

• A guided tour of the Northern Ireland Regional War Rooms in Belfast, a nuclear bunker dating from the Cold War Period.

• Discover the fascinating history of the new UNESCO site in Gracehill and explore the Gracehill Moravian Church in County Antrim.

• Tour the Primate's Palace, Armagh, a beautiful neo-classical building dating from 18th century.

• Visit Portaferry during Heritage Fest from 13 – 15 September celebrating the built, cultural and natural heritage of Portaferry and Strangford Lough.

• Explore Tully Castle near Enniskillen, a wonderful example of a 17th century fortified house and bawn.

• Join a walking tour of Ebrington Barracks with DfC's Principal Conservation Architect Manus Deery as he examines the development of the site and its fortifications over 162 years.

A digital brochure including a list of venues and events can be found at EHOD.

Electrical Switchgear Assured Skills Academy Announced A second Electrical Switchgear Assured Skills Academy with Vertiv at North West Regional College (NWRC) has been announced by Economy Minister Conor Murphy.

Fully funded by the Department for the Economy, this Academy will see 15 participants undertake seven weeks of training working towards a Level 2 entry level qualification in Electrical Installation (EAL) for work in the electrical switchgear sector.

The Academy will be delivered at NWRC and at Vertiv's L'Derry site, blending college learning with experience in a working environment.

Minister Murphy said: "This is a great opportunity for those with an interest in a career in electrical installation to join a global provider.

"As there is no experience required, this Academy is open to those who are just starting out on their career journey. It is also an opportunity for those who wish to retrain or return to the workforce.

"With a weekly training allowance of £175 and assistance for travel expenses and childcare costs I encourage anyone who is interested to apply."

Sinead Hawkins, Business Skills Manager at NWRC, said: "North West Regional College is delighted to be able to support Vertiv with their continued growth in the North West. Our Assured Skills Academy will provide skills training in electrical and mechanical installation. The Academy guarantees at least a job interview for people who complete the training, which provides a direct lead into employment. We look forward to delivering this training to participants and equipping them with the skills they need to excel in their future career."

Philip O'Doherty, Managing Director at Vertiv, said: "This Assured Skills Academy, supported by the Department for the Economy, offers a vital contribution to the North West region by providing industry standard pre-employment training in Electrical Switchgear. As a local employer, we are delighted to offer this opportunity for participants to work towards much sought-after qualifications in electrical installation."

Whilst no experience is required, applicants for the Academy must be at least 18 years old and be eligible to work in the UK.

Applications for the Electrical Switchgear Academy are now open and close at midnight on Wednesday 11 September 2024.

More information and how to apply can be obtained on the nidirect website of by emailing www.assuredskills@economy-ni.gov.uk

28-Year-Old Charged After Ramming Police Vehicle In L'Derry

A 28-year-old man has been charged in connection with an incident in L'Derry in which a police vehicle was rammed.

A dark coloured Audi was deliberately driven at a police vehicle in the Beraghvale area of the city shortly after 22:10 BST on Sunday, 11 August.

Officers pursued the vehicle, and a short time later the same car rammed a police vehicle which was stationary in traffic on the Glengalliagh Road.

The driver fled on foot but was arrested a short time later.

He was subsequently charged with a number of motoring offences to appear before Londonderry Magistrates' Court.