Other NI News In Brief

Breast Cancer 'Confusion'

Joyce Savage from the Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) with Aidan McKeagney (left) and Michael Guerin (right) from MediCare Pharmacy Group launch UCF's 2009 Think Pink! breast cancer awareness campaign. The focus is to provide up-to-date information on breast cancer by encouraging women to call the freephone information and support helpline - 0800 783 3339 - after research undertaken by MediCare show that women in Northern Ireland are still in the dark when it comes to breast cancer.

Derry Bomb

The PSNI are investigating a pipe bomb attack on a car in Londonderry. It was thrown through a window of a Mini in the Hatmore Park area of the city on Monday night, but failed to explode, although smoke damage was caused to the vehicle. Police are seeking a motive behind the attack.

BMA Against Cuts

After reports that the Belfast Trust could cut 150 beds at the City and Royal Victoria Hospital, Dr Brian Patterson, Chairman of the BMA's Northern Ireland Council said today that he is "vehemently opposed to the proposed cuts". Insisting that such cuts would undoubtedly impact on patient care, he said: "With waiting lists creeping up and the spectre of pandemic flu this winter, it doesn't make much sense to cut numbers of beds at a time when they are clearly needed," noting that "we need to invest in keeping bed numbers up, and in our healthcare staff – not agency staff, management consultants or bureaucracy".

Accolade For Hospice Care

Tributes have been paid to the work of the Northern Ireland Hospice. NI Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey, this week hosted an event in the Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Hospice, which celebrated the past success of the organisation, as well as providing an opportunity to share their vision for the future. "I welcome the opportunity to be here to share in this celebration and to hear of their vision for the future," he said, noting that the provision of palliative care remains a priority. "It is extremely positive to see the Northern Ireland Hospice and the statutory services working together to provide both adult and children's services," he commented.

Brussels Bound

A delegation of senior officials from NI has been in Brussels to provide an update report regarding ongoing work on the Barroso Taskforce and to discuss developing ongoing plans. Led by Stormont Junior Minister Gerry Kelly they met with Commissioner Pawel Samecki, who is responsible for Regional Development, as well as senior officials to discuss progress on the taskforce goals of maximising engagement with Europe and ensuring we take full advantage of European funding. Also discussed was the ongoing development of proposals for a Peace Building and Conflict Resolution Centre, how to maximise benefit from the Structural Funds and the benefits of trans-national co-operation.

(BMcC/KMcA)