Other News In Brief

UUP Welcomes Airport Takeover, Calls For Clear Plan

Ulster Unionist Party Economy Spokesperson Diana Armstrong MLA has expressed support for the Department of Economy's decision to take over the operational costs of City of Derry Airport. However, she has urged the Minister to develop a comprehensive and actionable plan to ensure the airport's long-term viability and success.

Armstrong emphasised the importance of the airport to the region's economy and connectivity. She called on the Department of Economy to provide a clear roadmap outlining the steps necessary to secure the airport's future and maximise its potential.

Ms Armstrong said: "I welcome the recent decision by the Department for the Economy to assume the annual running costs of City of Derry Airport. This move is a significant step towards alleviating the financial pressures on Derry City and Strabane District Council to value of £3 million per annum, allowing them to redirect much-needed funds into other vital local services, initiatives and pass on savings to ratepayers.

"The airport is a crucial asset for the North-West, providing essential connectivity and supporting regional economic growth. By taking on the operational costs, the Department for the Economy is demonstrating a commitment to the sustainability and future prosperity of the region.

"However, while this decision is a positive development, it is imperative that the Department for the Economy also focuses on establishing a robust business plan for the airport's future. A comprehensive strategy is essential to maximise the airport's potential, attract new routes, and enhance its role as a driver of economic development in the region.

"I urge the Department to engage with key stakeholders, including local businesses and community representatives, to develop a clear and actionable plan. This plan should outline steps to boost passenger numbers, improve facilities, and explore new opportunities for growth and investment.

"While I commend the Department for the Economy for their support, it is crucial that we now turn our attention to ensuring the long-term viability and success of City of Derry Airport through strategic planning and investment."

Alliance Welcomes New Victims And Survivors Strategy

Alliance Executive Office spokesperson Connie Egan MLA has welcomed the announcement of a Strategy for Victims and Survivors.

The North Down MLA has said: "The Victims and Survivors Strategy is to be broadly welcomed, and hope it will represent a refresh in how we approach the still very present after-effects of the Troubles in our society, centring trauma-informed actions at the heart of how we will build policy and support services here in Northern Ireland.

"Reading across the detail of the strategy, it is clear much has been learned from previous work. It acknowledges the gendered impact of the Troubles, intergenerational trauma, and places particular focus on helping victims and survivors both commemorate the past and look to the future with aspiration. "However, looking closer, it is disappointing there is no firm commitment to establishing a bereavement payment scheme. Redress schemes such as the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme have been significant in acknowledging the lasting impact of our past on victims and survivors.

"However, many who have experienced bereavement feel they have fallen through the gaps and been forgotten about.

"Until we know a timeline for delivering the first action plan, and an accompanying funding allocation, there is no guarantee this will deliver the support that is sorely needed. There's lots more work to be done in the time ahead.

"I and my Alliance Party colleagues will continue to push for progress on enhancing support pathways for victims and survivors, whether based here in Northern Ireland, or elsewhere across the UK and Ireland."

PHA Encourages Vitamin D Supplements For Autumn And Winter

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is recommending that everyone consider taking a vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter months to maintain bone, teeth, and muscle health.

Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient for overall health, obtained through three primary sources: food, sunlight, and supplements. While a balanced diet including oily fish, eggs, meat, dairy products, and fortified foods can provide some vitamin D, exposure to sunlight is the primary source. However, during the darker autumn and winter months, sunlight exposure may be limited, making supplementation necessary for many individuals.

The PHA encourages people to consult with their healthcare provider to determine if a vitamin D supplement is appropriate for their needs.

Dr Hannah McCourt, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Manager at the PHA, said: "During the summer months, from late March/early April to the end of September, our bodies can make the vitamin D we need from food and sunlight on our skin. However, during the autumn and winter months, with reduced daylight, we advise everyone to consider taking a 10 microgram supplement of vitamin D every day to help keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy."

Certain people need to take a 10 microgram vitamin D supplement every day throughout the year. These include:

• Women who are pregnant and/ or breastfeeding;

• Breastfed babies from birth;

• Babies who get less than 500ml (about a pint) of infant formula a day;

• All children aged one to five-years-old;

• People over the age of 65;

• People who have little exposure to the sun e.g., those who are housebound or confined indoors for long periods and those who cover their skin for cultural reasons;

• People with dark skin e.g., people of African, Afro-Caribbean or South Asian family origin.

Dr McCourt concluded: "You can buy vitamin D supplements at your local community pharmacy and most supermarkets. It’s important to remember that parents who have children under four years or those who are pregnant and on benefits, or pregnant and under 18, are entitled to Healthy Start vouchers – visit www.healthystart.nhs.uk for more information. If you are not sure which supplements to take, ask your pharmacist, GP or health visitor for advice."