Holywood Wins Best Kept Town Title

Issue 92 - December 2013 Tel: 028 9751 1002

Holywood wins Best Kept Town Title North Down Mayor Councillor Andrew Muir has praised all those involved in helping Holywood win the coveted title of Best Kept Town 2013. Speaking after the an- Group, has worked relent- nouncement was made, lessly in sprucing up the Councillor Andrew Muir town, tackling eye sores said: “This is an amazing and making the place a achievement and I have great town to visit, live, to say congratulations work or invest in. to everyone involved in “How a town looks is making this happen for vital to attracting visitors Holywood. and hopefully this news “Having taken the run- will encourage tourists ner-up spot last year, this and residents alike to year’s success is well- come and see everything deserved after the amount Holywood has to offer, of hard work, time and all surrounded by award- energy that went into to winning beauty.” securing this title. “Winning this title is proof that by Working as One we can succeed. The Council together with community groups, such as Holywood Resi- dents Association and Holywood Conservation GTINI Car Winner Jamie Peacock from Edinburgh, Scotland is pictured collecting his winning car from Comber resident John Middleton of GTINI along with Lynn Cowan from NI Children’s Hospice. The car raffle raised £10,000 for the charity. For further information, please visit www. nihospice.org or www.gtini.com GTINI’s ROAD TO SUCCESS FOR NORTHERN IRELAND CHILDREN’S HOSPICE The GTINI, a local Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) from the Comber area has raised a staggering £10,000 for Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice. The group, established in the months leading up to Northern Ireland with life nity to raise vital funds for in 2006 was set up as an their ‘Dubshed’ show with limiting illnesses and we Children’s Hospice.’’ internet forum to feed the the objective of raising as are thrilled to be doing our GTINI run three shows appetites of ‘VAG’ car much money as possible bit to support such a wor- each year which include fanatics. for Northern Ireland Chil- thy cause.’’ Dubshed, Castlewellan and One of their main objec- dren’s Hospice. ‘’The team at GTINI Titanic Dubs. tives within the group is Speaking about support- worked extremely hard to The raffle car was taken to run shows throughout ing local charity, North- get our prize show Lupo to each of these as well the year, for car enthusi- ern Ireland Children’s ready for our first event, as shows in Ireland and asts to enjoy whilst also Hospice, John Middleton Dubshed at the Kings Hall Great Britain. Jamie Pea- supporting a local charity. from the GTINI group Complex back in April cock from Edinburgh, This year Northern Ireland comments, which saw over 800 cars Scotland was announced Children’s Hospice was the ‘We were delighted to on show, with entrants as the lucky winner, at benefiting charity through nominate Northern Ireland coming from all over Ire- final show, Titanic Dubs, a charity raffle to win a Children’s Hospice as our land, GB and Europe. It is Belfast. VW Lupo Car. The GTINI chosen charity. They do fast becoming one of the team transformed a stand- amazing work in help- best shows on the calendar Continued on ard Lupo into a ‘show car’ ing local children across and a perfect opportu- Page 6 North Down Advertiser Page 2 Issue 92 - December 2013 Bangor carers commend fostering as the ‘springboard to a brighter future’ Bangor foster carers, Mark and Jenny Gillespie, have said that fostering has “brought so much” to their lives, but recognise it is a huge shock for a child to be left with strangers. Speaking as Kinder- felt that we still had a lot able to come through so full social work team, people, Chief Executive 17% were supported to care Fostering Northern to offer. We contacted much. They are being is always available to of Kindercare Foster- move onto their per- Ireland said that Looked Kindercare and spoke brought into a strange listen to us and to offer ing Northern Ireland, manent family through After Children need “a with Niall, and ulti- person’s home and all support when we need it Iain Anderson, said that adoption.” springboard to the future mately felt that we could the ‘stranger danger’ - at all hours of the day. he was “immensely If you have at least one – not just a safety net”, give a child a chance of work goes out the win- When a placement broke proud” of Kindercare’s spare bedroom in your the local carers em- a stable loving home dow and they are told down we couldn’t have achievements: home, experience in phasised the difference environment. we will care for them. got through this without “Over the last two caring - preferably with fostering can make to a “We have had some “Having support from the support of Kinder- years we have changed children, and the time, child or young person: really rough times, but family is important, for care - we never thought the lives of over 75 chil- energy and caring per- “We have been foster- when we remember who us and for the children we could get through dren and young people, sona to support a child/ ing for seven years - one these children really are we care for. Everyone something so hard as helping them navigate young person, then fos- long term child for the we look past the behav- around us sees these a child having to leave a wide range of life tering could be for you. past six years, and one iours and see them as children as part of the us because they needed challenges. If you want to learn child with significant fantastic wee children. family and treats them more intensive support.” From April 2012 to more about fostering special needs placed These children haven’t just the same. Speaking ahead of March 2013, 24% of children and young peo- with us recently. asked to be brought into “Everyone at Kinder- an event celebrating children in our care ple in Bangor, please “We couldn’t have any the situation they are care, from the admin- “inspiring outcomes” were supported to re- call the Kindercare team family of our own and in, but they have been istrative staff to the for children and young turn home, and a further on 028 9094 1690. Club Takes To Water With Council Funding Donaghadee Sailing Club has taken to the water with two new dinghies and equipment, thanks to grant aid from Ards Borough Council. The club benefited from GP14 Sailing Dinghies, invest in new equipment, ing more accessible to lo- secure these funding of more than £3K, with associated equipment, as well as to improve fa- cal people. additional two helping to meet 50% of including buoyancy aids cilities for local residents Councillor Robert Adair, boats. Since the costs of buying two and wetsuits, after success- to participate in sport. Chairman of the Council opening the new fully applying for financial The sailing club’s new Services Committee, vis- club house in support through the Coun- boats are being used to ited the sailing club to see 2009, the Club cil’s Sports Capital Grant help beginners or those the boats on the water: has been follow- Programme. interested in trying out the “The new dinghies and ing an ambitious The programme is open sport to do so without any equipment mean the Club d e v e l o p m e n t to all sports clubs and of- personal financial outlay, is now able to extend the plan and the ad- fers grants to help clubs which will help make sail- opportunities for young ditional capac- people in particular to ity provided by have a go at sailing, but these boats will without the need to buy or help us deliver maintain their own boats. the sailing expe- This is a boost to the sport rience to larger as well as the Club and I’m groups from the delighted to see the boats local and wider now being used regularly community”. in the water,” said Council- Anyone who Pictured with two new lor Adair. would like Nick Butler, Commodore further informa- dinghies are James Ogg, Nick of the Sailing Club, said: tion about the Butler, Emma Hingston, and “Donaghadee Sailing Sports Capital Councillor Robert Adair Club is delighted with the Grants Scheme which can Emma Hingston, Sports generous support received provide up to 50% match Development Officer, Ards from Ards Borough Coun- funding for investment up Borough Council, Tel: 028 cil enabling the Club to to £10,000 should contact 9182 4018. Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 3 Water for Health was the topic at St Malachy’s Primary School Water for Health was the topic of the day at St Malachy’s Primary School when NI Water’s education team recently paid a visit. NI Water’s educational programme, H2O and the Wonderful World of Wa- ter, teaches children about the importance of drinking water and how to identify the symptoms and effects of dehydration. The children were introduced to H20, a water drop figure and mascot for the programme. They also took part in practical dem- onstrations and games to explain how much water children should drink each day and how much of the body is made up of water. After discussing both tap St Malachy’s and bottled water, pupils Primary School took part in a taste test to Bangor recently see if they could tell the were paid a visit difference. Each pupil by NI Water’s received a re-usable NI education team Water bottle. NI Water’s Environmen- programme. It’s a fantastic tal Education Manager, way for us to work within Jane Jackson said: the local community and ‘‘NI Water places great educate future generations importance on educating of water users!” young people in the vital The programme is role water plays in our aimed at Key Stage 2 lives. H2O is a fun way and designed to comple- for children to learn about ment a key element of the why water is essential for Northern Ireland Primary good health and how they Curriculum – the ‘World can help to conserve this Around Us’. precious resource. A teachers’ learn- “We are delighted with ing pack, with further the positive feedback classroom activities is we have received from available to download schools who have par- from www.niwater.com/ ticipated in our education education. North Down Advertiser Page 4 Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down DUP MLA Gordon Dunne has spoken in the Assembly in support of improved services for mental health. The MLA stated during an Assembly Motion: ‘Mental Health or gender. It is vitally important that services are in place to pro- is an ever increasing issue and unfortunately 1 in 4 people will vide care and support to patients, carers and families affected by experience some kind of mental health problem. Practically eve- mental illness and that they are consistent across all Trust areas. ry family in Northern Ireland will be affected by mental health There is no doubt that the Troubles have had an impact on the during their lives, with women more likely to have been treated mental and physical well-being of our population. The legacy of for a mental health problem than men. Self-harm and suicide the troubles lives on, the loss of family members through shoot- statistics are also linked in many cases to mental health issues. ings, bombs and other attacks has left its mark on society. Given The fact that 10% of children have a mental health problem and our troubled context and the trauma experienced by so many, that depression affects 1 in 5 older people highlights the startling there is no quick solution to the challenges which we face. fact that mental health knows no boundaries on age, race, class ‘Sufferers and their families must have a full range of professionals within accessible reach for help and support. Given the fact that mental health is a wide ranging issue with many contrib- utory factors, a joined up approach involving different agencies and departments from all levels is essential. I would like to commend the work of many local charities who do such an excellent job in difficult circumstances, Local organisations like CAUSE who bring much needed support and compassion to sufferers and ‘Action Mental Health’ who do such an important work in providing care and help through the ‘New Horizons’ facility. There is no doubt that Northern Ireland has a high prevalence of poor mental health and high levels of post-traumatic stress and we must all continue to work to reduce the burden of mental health across our land.’

The North Down Advertiser is published by EDA Media, Unit 2 Windmill Business Park, Saintfield, BT24 7DX. This Paper and its contents are copyright and no part maybe reproduced without the prior permission of the publisher. All Calls are recorded for training, quality and control purposes. Tel: 02897 511002 Fax 02897 511008 email: [email protected] © Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 5 SERC host business Innovation conference ‘There are many ways to innovate’ was the key message at the Road Show of the East Border Region Innovation, Opportunity, Training and Advice (iOTA) Programme which took place recently at South Eastern Regional College (SERC). Held at SERC’s cil areas in award winning En- Northern Ire- vironmental Skills land – Ards, Centre, the iOTA A r m a g h , programme seeks to B a n b r i d g e , enhance understand- C r a i g a v o n , ing of the process of Down, Newry innovation and make and Mourne local businesses more and North aware of the benefits Down as well of innovation in their as Counties businesses. Louth and First, delegates were Monaghan in welcomed by Council- the south of lor Alan McDowell Ireland and who said “The iOTA will be de- Programme is an ex- livered by a ceptional opportunity cross border for potential new and c o n s o r t i u m small to medium sized led by Newry enterprises in the East and Mourne Border Region to de- E n t e r p r i s e velop their innovation Pictured at the recent East Border Region iOTA Programme which took Agency. place at SERC are Emma Pearson, North Down Development Organisation, capacity by accessing SERC offer Janice Cooke, SERC Business Innovation and Development Officer, José Pietri, skills, expertise and Mindshare Consulting, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, Deputy Mayor North Down a wide range knowledge”. Borough Council, SERC Director Thompson Keating and Clare McGill, SIGNAL of solutions Next delegates were Centre of Business Excellence to meet the treated to an inspira- specific train- tional talk by innova- ing needs tion expert José Pi- “SERC are delighted equipment. By ena- Funded through the of your organisation. etri on innovation and to host this conference. bling companies’ ac- European Union’s IN- To find out how your collaboration. SERC recognises that cess to equipment and TERREG IVA Cross business can get results SERC Director of innovation is an impor- expertise at the College Border Programme, from SERC please visit Corporate and Eco- tant part of growing the we can help local com- the Programme is open our website at www. nomic Development local economy and that panies’ fast-track their to individuals, SMEs serc.ac.uk/getresults Mr Thompson Keating not all companies have ideas to product crea- and micro enterprises or call us on 0845 600 said, the capital to invest in tion and production.” in the following coun- 7555. North Down Advertiser Page 6 Issue 92 - December 2013 Continued from worked so hard all year to osity and involvement organise three fantastic car throughout the year, Page 1 shows as well as spending “The £10,000 raised Holywood Wins Best time preparing the win- could pay for over 300 Speaking about the suc- ning car. Of course none hours of specialist nurs- cess of the events run by of this would have been ing care for a local child the GTINI, Lynn Cowan, possible without the in- with a life-limiting or Kept Town Title Events Fundraiser at volvement of the sponsors life-threatening condition. Northern Ireland Chil- who donated parts, time Congratulations must also dren’s Hospice says, and effort in this task. I be given to Jamie on win- “We are thrilled to have would like to thank John ning the fantastic car, and the support of the GTINI and the GTINI group for to everyone who bought a this year. They have their exceptional gener- ticket in aid of Children’s Hospice.’’ Northern Ireland Chil- dren’s Hospice is the only service of its type in Northern Ireland caring for children and young people with very complex needs who require 24 hour specialist care. There are over 600 life- limited children living in Northern Ireland who need care that only Children’s Hospice can provide. For further information on Northern Ireland Chidl- ren’s Hospice and the Pictured above is North Down Mayor Councillor Andrew Muir with GTINI please visit www. Holywood Residents Association celebrating their Best Kept Medium nihospice.org and www. Town 2013 award gtini.com respectively. Make A Child’s Christmas Truly Magical With An Nspcc Letter From Santa Every festive season, children across North Down write to Santa in the hope that he’ll visit on Christmas Eve with a sackful of presents and Rudolph in tow. Imagine their surprise gift for families with if they were to receive more than one child a reply from the man as each can receive a himself – the perfect truly unique letter. gift to help keep the The reindeer mail- magic of Christmas room will be open until alive. 17 December 2013, For a suggested dona- and all those who re- tion of just £5 to the quest a Letter from NSPCC, a child will Santa this year will be receive a fun, colourful entered into a draw to and personalised Let- win a once-in-a-life- ter from Santa, with a time trip to Lapland for festive story tailored a family of four. to their age. You’ll be You can request your able to choose from Letter from Santa at seven different beauti- www.nspcc.org.uk/san- fully illustrated styles, ta or by calling 0845 making them the ideal 839 9304. Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 7 Dunne commends Girls Brigade (GB) with new Flower Bed North Down DUP MLA Gordon Dunne has commended and paid tribute to the Girls Brigade in North Down, the MLA added at a recently launched flowerbed to celebrate the 120th Anniversary of the Girls Brigade. ‘The Girls Brigade are 120 years. This flowerbed impact that GB has for so have now planted this mag- This also adds to the bright a very active organisation is a fitting tribute to the many young people and the nificent flowerbed in Holy- and colourful displays right across North Down many local volunteers and many benefits with which wood in conjunction with within our town centres and I am delighted that helpers from right across membership of that great GBNI. This was an initia- and helps to keep our local tive which has been setup areas looking well. I would between the Girls Brigade commend the Grounds across Northern Ireland Maintenance team and Ian and five local councils to Beaney at North Down recognise so many years of Borough Council for help- a successful organisation. ing to deliver this project.’

Holywood Cllr Stephen Dunne and North Down DUP MLA Gordon Dunne with girls from 1st Holywood Girls Brigade at the flowerbed

North Down Borough North Down who have organisation brings.’ Council have planted a given so freely of their time Local Holywood DUP special commemorative over the years in organis- Councillor Stephen Dunne flowerbed at Ballymen- ing and helping at weekly added: och Park in Holywood to GB meetings. I am well ‘I am pleased that North mark a very significant aware of the very positive Down Borough Council North Down Advertiser Page 8 Issue 92 - December 2013 Used Clothing Co. Health Used Clothing Co have recently opened a third drop off point in the greater North Down area at the convenient location of 6 Road Ends, Bangor. Minister This new drop off point Used Clothing Co. pay thy causes, and by diverting new. will be open Monday to 60p per Kg for good qual- reusable items from landfill We would like to take Friday 10am to 5pm and ity clothing, hand-bags, and we are doing our bit to help this opportunity to thank on Saturdays from 10am to shoes. We continue to sup- the environment. all the local people who use launches 4pm. port local charities and wor- People often ask ‘where our service and welcome do our items go to?’ Work- anyone thinking of using our ing with our parent com- service. pany Clothing Collections We also have other stores One Heart International Ltd, the items located at Balloo Road, we collect are graded and Bangor and Jubilee Road, exported throughout the Newtownards, and you world to some of the poorest can contact us on 0845 520 Campaign regions this enables family’s 1551 to organise a home Health Minister Edwin Poots last to afford items they would collection, or visit www. night praised the work being done to never have been able to buy usedclothingco.com improve services for cardiac patients, and paid tribute to the Northern Ireland O’Neill defends CAP Chest Heart and Stroke (NICHS). The Minister was Percutaneous Coronary budget allocation speaking during the Intervention (PCI) pro- Agriculture Minister Pillar II, we have succeeded in launch of One Heart cedure 24 hours a day. Michelle O’Neill recently retaining our historic budget Campaign, an initiative There is already estab- announced that discussions share. When I met with my by Astra Zeneca which lished a dedicated Pri- on the allocation of UK CAP Ministerial colleagues from budget across the regions Britain at the start of this assists patients with mary PCI centre at the have reached a successful week, I made it very clear heart conditions us- Royal Victoria Hospital conclusion. Minister O’Neill that we needed to bring this ing personalised text and by summer 2014, said: “I am extremely pleased matter to a rapid conclusion. messaging and mobile Altnagelvin Hospital to announce that as a result of The decision has now been technology. The service will become Northern our strong arguments in de- made and I have secured the offered by One Heart is Ireland’s second Pri- fence of our allocation of the outcome I was looking to a free personalised sup- mary PCI centre.” CAP budget for Pillar I and achieve, which will deliver port programme for pa- Minister Poots con- an additional €20million in tients with Acute Coro- tinued: “It is working support to the local industry between now and 2019. I have nary Syndromes who together with pharma- already voiced my disappoint- have been prescribed an ceutical companies like ment that the EU Budget deal oral anti platelet. Astra Zeneca and to will leave us with reduced The Minister said: “I the unstinting efforts of budgets, but as a result of am delighted that as a voluntary organisations today’s decision, the risk of result of work follow- such as the NICHS any further reduction has ing on from Transform- that we are able to been avoided. This provides ing Your Care, patients continue to provide welcome clarity on the CAP suffering the most such high quality serv- monies available in the north severe form of heart ices. NICHS has always and now allows us to move on to decide how these should attack are now taken been at the forefront of be best used for the long term straight to a dedicated innovation in promot- benefit of the rural economy centre that is capable of ing health and inform- and environment.” undertaking the primary ing the public.” Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 9 Minister Concerned Dunne & Harbinson attend launch of About Sickness CAUSE Mental Health Carers Manifesto Absence In Civil North Down DUP MLA Gordon Dunne and North Down Councillor Adam Harbinson have attended the launch of the Service CAUSE Mental Health Carers Manifesto. Speaking after Finance Minister Simon Hamilton the launch, they expressed concern about the increase added: ‘We are de- in level of sickness absence across the lighted to lend Northern Ireland Civil Service. our support to Official statistics to note that over 50% the work of this published recently by (52.3%) of our staff had special mental the Northern Ireland no recorded periods of health charity Statistics and Research sickness absence.” CAUSE. We are both well aware Agency (NISRA) reveals The Minister conclud- of the excel- that during the financial ed: “Given that reducing lent work they year 2012/13 the overall NICS sickness absence carry out and level of sickness absence levels is a Programme would like to across the NICS has infor Government com- commend them creased from the figure mitment, I will continue on their work of 10.1 days (average to encourage Ministe- and encourage days lost per staff year) rial colleagues to retain to keep up the Dunne and Harbinson attending the launch of CAUSE in 2011/12 to 10.6 days, a very close interest in great work Mental Health Carers Manifesto missing the annual target this issue. I have also P r a c t i c a l l y of 9.5 days. asked my officials to every family in Northern The facts that 10% of chil- that services are in place to The level of sick- review our NICS poli- Ireland will be affected by dren have a mental health provide care and support to ness absence equates, cies and procedures and mental health during their problem and that depression patients, carers and families in paybill terms, to to consider any changes lives, with women more affects 1 in 5 older people affected by mental illness. £30.8million, an increase or strategies that may be likely to have been treated highlights the startling fact It is vital that services are on last year’s figure of necessary to ensure our for a mental health problem that mental health knows readily available for patients £2.2million. targets are met.” than men. Self-harm and no boundaries on age, race, and carers and that they are Commenting on the Managing attendance suicide statistics are also class or gender. consistent across all Trust worrying to say the least. It is vitally important areas.’ headline figures, the remains a key prior- Minister said: “This is ity within all NI Depart- very disappointing news ments and there is a given that for a number comprehensive range of of years we have seen a policies and procedures steady downward trend in place to address the in the level of sickness problem. Help and sup- absence. port for staff at work and “I am satisfied however throughout their illness that this reverse in trend is available, including does not reflect any dilu- professional intervention in the focus across tions, assistance with NI Departments to tackle rehabilitation and reason- the sickness absence able adjustments. Where problem. Managing at- necessary, procedures tendance and reducing are in place to deal with sick absence is a key inappropriate levels of priority for departments, sickness absence. and clearly our work The Report was com- must continue and indeed pleted by the Northern intensify in some areas Ireland Statistics & to ensure that the targets Research Agency and is which are set out in the available on their web- Programme for Govern- site: http://www.nisra. ment are achieved. gov.uk/publications/Sick- “It’s encouraging ness_in_the_NICS.html North Down Advertiser Page 10 Issue 92 - December 2013 Get Nominating In Sports Awards! The annual sports awards for Ards have opened and local people are being encouraged to get nominating. The awards, sponsored egories, recognising indi- by Charles Hurst Renault vidual, team and coaching and organised by the Ards achievements. Borough Sports Develop- Ivan Coffey, Chair of ment Committee, are made Ards Sports Development across 9 separate cat- Committee, is encourag-

Mayor of Ards, Councillor Stephen McIlveen, with members of the Ards Borough Sports Development Committee and sports awards sponsors at the launch of the 2013 Ards Borough Sports Awards.

ing local sports clubs and pation in sport which hap- Belvoir Lettings, Progres- members of the community pens every day of the year sive Building Society and to nominate: in this area. I would advise the Mayor of Ards. “We say it every year, our clubs, community or- The closing date for but that doesn’t make it ganisations and individual nominations is Friday 31 any less true: we have a residents to submit their January 2014 at 4pm. For wealth of sporting talent nominations”. further information visit in the Ards Borough and As well as Charles Hurst www.ards-council.gov. this is our opportunity to Renault, individual awards uk/sports development or acknowledge the sporting are sponsored by Ulster call the sports develop- success, the dedication to Bank, Danske Bank, Tro- ment unit at Ards Borough coaching and the commit- phies by Design, BTW Council, Tel: 028 9182 ment to opening up partici- Shiells, Huges Insurance, 4018. Roads Service ready for winter Following the launch Service which covers the of Roads Service Winter council areas of Armagh, Programme by Regional Banbridge, Craigavon, Down, Development Minister Danny Newtownards and Newry and Kennedy, Southern Divisional Mourne. Roads Manager Simon Rich- Arrangements are also in ardson has announced how place to call on contractors the programme will work and farmers, to help clear locally. blocked roads. Improved Stocks of salt are at full communication arrangements capacity and until the middle and priority secondary salting of April, Roads Service has to rural schools that are most 78 staff and 33 gritters on affected by wintery weather standby every night to ensure conditions have also been put that the 1,800 kilometres, in place. or around 1,118 miles of For areas off the main salted main roads are treated in the network Roads Service will Southern Division of Roads continue to provide self help salt bins and grit piles. These are available for local residents to use to help deal with snow and ice on pavements. There is welcome news about the salting of busy town centre footways. Almost all councils are now working with Roads Service to help deliver this important service. Everyone needs to prepare for winter, and now is the time to do it. Information on salting and the latest road conditions is available at: http://www.Traf- ficwatchNI.com The Roads Service winter service leaflet ‘Keeping Traffic on the Move During Winter’ will be delivered to every household and Business premises over the coming weeks. The leaflet is also available free by calling 028 9054 0540 or can be downloaded from: http:// www.drdni.gov.uk/index/publications/publications-details. htm?docid=7582 For help and advice about coping with the challenges of winter visit: http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/winter Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 11 Care At Home - What People Really Want A recent survey has very clearly identified the three most important factors for offering good homecare as having sufficient time for care, having friendly, respectful & capable care workers and thirdly, having choice about services provided. These points were iden- another option control of the services you As one of the foremost tified by the people who though and more receive including how long providers of self funded would or do receive care and more people the calls are, what the care care in Northern Ireland, at home and their families, are opting to pay worker will do (anything Bluebird Care can advise who are often involved in for their care from personal care to tak- you and provide the high the process. themselves and ing you out for coffee) and levels of care you want. The survey was car- choose their own which care company you Why not phone us today on ried out in England by care provider. choose to use. 028 9042 6615. The Guardian newspaper, If you or some- in association with the one you know Department of Health but requires help, although the survey refers you have choices to England, it is fair to about funding believe that exactly the including Direct same outcomes would be Payments (ask reached if the survey were the Centre for In- in Northern Ireland. dependent Living Traditionally, local care in Belfast 028 is funded by social services 9087 5001) or but with on-going budget you can fund the cuts, many people feel sufficient time or choice care yourself. that they do not receive about services. There is This way, you are in Little Wing Pizzeria Why Little Wing Pizzeria? Because our passion for pizza shines through! Just taste one of our Ballyhack- yummy, traditionally amore (Tel: made Naples style piz- 028 90 651 zas and you’ll know 555), Lis- what we’re talking burn Road about. We tirelessly (Tel: 028 90 search for the finest 666 000), fresh ingredients which Ann Street we cook using time (Tel: 028 honoured methods, all 90 247 000) served in a warm and kitted out in aprons and and Main Street Bangor friendly atmosphere. chefs hats and get their (Tel 028 91 472 777). We offer a yummy hands dirty by making 3 course kids menu their own pizzas under including a mini hot the watchful eye of our chocolate for only £5.95. trained pizza chefs. We also run fantastic Just call your local res- Little Winger’s Work- taurant to find out more! shops, ideal for birthday We have four restaurants parties, where kids get conveniently located at North Down Advertiser Page 12 Issue 92 - December 2013 Learn About The Fastest Growing Martial Art In Northern Ireland Following on from the success of the Olympics, Taekwon-Do has become the fastest growing Martial Art in Northern Ireland. Taekwon-Do is the scientific use of the body for self-defence, it is graceful and powerful yet dynamic, exciting and fun. It is suitable for both males and females from the age of 5 years upwards and offers an opportunity for parents to join and engage with their children in an active way. Leo McShane shows Age and height category trophy awards at The Northern Ireland In Northern Ireland his opponent a clean Junior Taekwon-Do Championships 2013 held in the new Aurora the largest group is Leo pair of heels! Aquatic Centre, Bangor. Maguire Taekwon-Do Schools which is af- filiated to the United This level of expertise training program offers system designed to de- environment. Kingdom Taekwon-Do is now being passed on fitness, friendship and velop a child’s core skills The group runs classes Council (UKTC). Mr. to his current students self- defence. in agility, balance and for Taekwon-Do and Maguire as the Northern as his fully qualified in- To promote the advan- coordination while pro- Little Tiger Cub’s at Ireland National Coach structors are all national tages of Taekwon-Do moting self-confidence various locations across and President of Northern team members and dedi- and sport in general to and social skills. Little the province, to find out Ireland ITF, has brought cated to encourage each younger children from Tiger Cub’s also intro- more visit the website the N.I. National Team child to achieve his or 3-5 years, the group run duces children to the www.taekwondo-ni.co.uk to victory at both Euro- her full potential. For Little Tiger Cub’s which importance of ‘Stranger or contact Leo Maguire pean and World levels. adults, our structured is a learn through play Danger’ in a controlled directly on 07891191494. Rural Health And Wellbeing In Focus At Major Conference Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle O’Neill and Health Minister Edwin Poots recently opened a conference aimed at highlighting rural health and wellbeing within our rural communities. The conference was charitable organisation that service for farmers and are facing can impact on done to address these is- organised by the Northern provides support through rural families. The confer- their health and wellbe- sues, and significantly it Health and Social Care a helpline which offers a ence highlighted how the ing and highlighted some also detailed the potential Trust and Rural Support, a listening and signposting current difficulties farmers of the work already being for growth and prosperity within the industry. Speaking at the conference, held at Greenmount College, Antrim, Minister O’Neill said: “Often there is a romantic image of the ‘rural idyll’ and it is generally assumed that living in the countryside is good for one’s health and wellbeing. However, in reality, a variety of complex issues face those living and working in the countryside. “Rural communities generally face poor access to healthcare services such as the provision of mental health services and access to A&E facilities which are limited in rural areas.” The Minister continued: “My Department’s rural community development support service, delivered through the local Rural Support Networks, provides practical advice and support to farmers and farm families on the rural development programme, and on how to access information and advice on the economic assistance available to rural areas.” Minister Poots commented: “Since the introduction of the Farm Families Health Checks programme last year, checks have been carried out on over 3,000 people at Farmers’ Marts and rural community events. This level of uptake proves that the farming community has an interest in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Where farmers can access healthcare advice in a place, and at a time, that is convenient to them, they will do so. It is up to us to ensure that this type of service is made available to them.” Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 13 It’s All Workshop Happening Placements at Giving Offenders New Direction Stewart Justice Minister David Ford has visited a joinery and furniture refurbishment workshop which provides work for offenders sentenced to community service orders. Miller Voluntary Serv- two years for offenders look to new Job oppor- Toys, toys, toys! That’s the Christmas ices Lisburn (VSL) is a sentenced to community tunities, while proceeds message from Stewart Miller, Flagship charitable organisation service orders. of sales go back into which aims to improve This has been a good helping those in need Centre Bangor, High Street Holywood job opportunities for opportunity to see at within the community. and Conway Square Newtownards. those on community first hand the work be- “We know that op- “We have all the ‘must £2.99. We are selling service orders through ing undertaken by an portunities like these have’ toys for Christmas” hundreds, don’t miss out! training and skills de- organisation dedicated provide real, tangible explains Claire Bailie, Another popular line this velopment in restoration to helping those in the support for offenders the toy buyer at Stewart year is the Sweet Shop and refurbishment of community. and can contribute to a Miller. tin, on offer at £4.99 and second hand furniture. “Offenders are expert- reduction in offending. I “Our Number One toy moving very quickly. Of Offenders work along- ly trained and can obtain am delighted to visit and brand is of course Lego, course, selection boxes side skilled project qualifications and can lend my support.” and we carry an extensive are always popular – it’s workers in the workshop range all year round” no secret that local people which has received continues Claire. “Lego have a sweet tooth. funding support from Friends for girls is sell- “Finally, relation ing well – also popular Christmas Cards, calen- the Department of Jus- is Nerf, Doc McStuffin dars and that all impor- tice through the Proba- toys, Thomas the Tank, tant Christmas Stationery, tion Board and the Lis- Jigsaws, Board games including pocket and desk burn Policing Service and of course Barbie, diaries are all in stock. Community Partnership. Playmobil and WWE We offer a wide variety at Speaking during his Wrestling figures. A new Stewart Miller.” visit, David Ford said: craze starting to gain Stewart Miller is at “Voluntary Services momentum right now is Flagship Centre, Main Lisburn is a key partner the Rainbow loom used Street Bangor, 3 Conway of the Probation Board to make rubber bracelets Square Newtownards and the Lisburn PCSP, – very good value at only and 95 High Street providing almost 100 £14.99. Holywood. placements in the last “Not to be outdone, our book department have all the latest best sell- ers from Alex Ferguson, Harry Redknapp, David Jason (Del Boy), Bridget Jones to name but a few, with outstanding sales of the new Mark Larkin, Belfast’s favourite author, which is on offer at just £8.99, reduced from £18.99. All your favourite annuals are now in stock and any books to do with pop group One Direction are flying off the shelves as is the perennial favourite The Guinness Book of Records. “Confectionery has always been strong at Stewart Miller, and this year is no exception with Lindt Lindor, everyone’s favourite, on offer at North Down Advertiser Page 14 Issue 92 - December 2013 ‘Cinderella’ sparkles at The ‘Excellence through Commitment, Courtyard Theatre Contribution and caring’ The Courtyard Theatre is delighted to announce that their Christmas pantomime will be the favourite fairy-tale Glenlola Collegiate is a highly successful grammar school ‘Cinderella’. for girls aged 11-18 years with a Preparatory Department – Join Mr Hullabaloo Polish off your glass The Courtyard Thea- Cygnet House – for girls and boys aged 4-11 years and a Play from Thursday 28th slippers and get ready tre in partnership with Group for girls and boys aged 3-4 years. November – Saturday to have a ball with the Mr Hullabaloo has Our modern school 21st December for a team that brought you produced three sell building accommodates fun filled family adven- Jack and the Beanstalk, out pantomimes and 1200 pupils and staff ture that will have you Snow White and Alad- received rave reviews while still retaining the singing, dancing and din. Featuring an out- from families, schools traditional character and clapping along! standing cast, puppetry and youth organisa- ethos of the school. We dazzling sets and lav- tions. With only 180 aim to create a stimulat- ish costumes, all ages seats, this intimate ing environment in which can join in the excite- venue is perfect for each girl can develop her ment as this timeless children to get up close specific talents to maxi- fairy-tale unfolds. to the action. mum effect. Christmas comes a Cinderella is at The Admission for Year 8 girls is through selection little early, with special Courtyard Theatre until under the AQE CEA ar- guest Santa making an the 21st of December, rangements. The School Thursday 9 January 2014 tine Road, Bangor, BT20 appearance and bring- so come and watch will also consider ap- with the Headmaster’s 4TH ing along a gift for dreams come true this plications for entry into address at 6.45pm. All Tel: 028 9175340 each child. A ticket for festive season. years 9, 10, 11 and 13 prospective students and Fax: 028 91475349 the performance and a Further information under the existing system their parents are wel- Email: info@glenlola present from Santa are and tickets are avail- of entry. come to attend. collegiate.bangor.ni.sch. all wrapped up in the able at www.thecourt- The School’s Open Contact: Glenlola Col- uk or visit www.glenlola bargain price of £9.50. yardtheatre.com Night will take place on legiate School, 2 Valen- collegiate.net LARGEST WATER WHEEL IN NORTHERN IRELAND RESTORED The waterwheel at the 260 year old Dundonald Old Mill has been restored and was officially opened last month by the project’s consulting architect Dawson Stelfox. The restoration work was partially funded by a grant from NI Environ- ment Agency and was carried out over 5 months by George Adams Engineer- ing of Newtownards. It involved much specialised work including replacement of all 24 wooden spokes, each 16’ long. Dundonald Old Mill is a listed building set on the course of the Ards TT Motor Car Races which ran from 1928 to 1936. The site is made up of the original mill, kiln house and miller’s house. It was built in 1752 by Hugh Barnett as a linen bleach- ing mill which operated for about 100 years. The water wheel, one of the largest in Ireland, dates Pictured from left to right is Dick Blakiston Houston, Dawson Stelfox from 1850 when the MBE, Carolyn Hamill, Stephen Adams and Mrs George Adams buildings were converted from a linen bleach- wheel, which measures turning. mill also seem delighted, ing mill to a corn mill. 32’ in diameter by 4’7” The complex is now a judging by the length of The linen mill had been wide. It was originally family run Coffee House time they spend watch- powered by two large driven by a small fast and Gift Shop, open 7 ing it. It is a wonderful waterwheels, 14’ and 18’ stream called the Sally days a week, and owner example of industrial ar- in diameter, but when the River and although now Carolyn Hamill says “we chitecture and a great feat conversion to corn was driven by electricity the are thrilled to have our of engineering which has made, these were replaced wheel is nevertheless an waterwheel turning once been lovingly restored by by the existing huge impressive sight when again, and visitors to the local craftsmen.” Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 15 Rejuvenate Nail & Beauty Clinic At Rejuvenate Nail and Beauty Clinic, we invite you to a place where you can escape to an experience of solitude and relaxation, all based at our salon at 16 Dufferin Avenue, Bangor, County Down. We have made it our highly trained and fully cluding holiday prepa- few. rejuvenateclinicbangor. goal to provide you qualified staff who can ration and pre-wedding So if you would like com to see our full list with an escape from the offer you a vast array packages. to relax, unwind and of services, or like us sometimes hectic and of treatments including Our resident manager let all your stress melt on Facebook www. unrelenting lives we a deep facial cleanse, brings with her a wealth away, call us for an ap- facebook.com/rejuve- lead in these modern indian head massage, of experience from pointment on 028 9147 natebangor to keep in- times. It is our hope full range of waxing worldwide positions, 7226. You can also formed of our monthly that you will find our services, gel & acrylic having worked for Clar- visit our website www. offers and giveaways. salon to be somewhere nails, spray tanning and ins and Face, Body and you can unwind, to ease much more. Beauty in London, The the strains of everyday We also have a series Hair and Body Compa- life. of pamper packages ny in South Africa, and Put yourself in the available, suitable for a Sulis, House of Lush in capable hands of our variety of situations, in- Australia to name but a Kennedy launches Winter Service Programme Regional Development Over 800 tonnes of salt is Information on salting and Minster Danny Kennedy has used on average for the mas- the latest road conditions is launched the Roads Service sive logistical undertaking available on: http://www. Winter Service programme of treating the entire route trafficwatchni.com. and is calling on all drivers just once. Roads Service has The Roads Service winter to be prepared for the chal- ample reserves of 110,000 service leaflet ‘Keeping lenges of winter driving. tonnes of salt which are Traffic on the Move During From now until the middle topped-up regularly during Winter’ will be delivered to of April, Roads Service has the winter. every household and Busi- almost 300 staff and over The Minister stressed that ness premises over the com- 130 gritters on standby every everyone has a role to play ing weeks. night to ensure that our main and was calling on driv- The leaflet is also avail- roads are salted to help ers to prepare by ensuring able free by calling 028 drivers cope with winter that their vehicles are fit for 9054 0540 or can be down- conditions. purpose. loaded from: ttp://www. Roads Service staff work Roads Service cannot treat drdni.gov.uk/index/publica- to a tight schedule to ensure every road, but it does pro- tions/publications-details. that over 7,000 kilometres or vide support. Almost 5,000 htm?docid=7582 4,400 miles of roads across salt bins and 50,000 grit For help and advice about Northern Ireland are treated piles have been strategically coping with the challenges with salt in around three and placed on roads not included of winter visit: http//www. a half hours. on the salted network. nidirect.gov.uk/winter A selfish few are affecting us all DCAL Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has hit out at vandals following recent incidents on the Lagan Towpath. Park benches, signs responsible towpath property, and have some and other fixtures users have to experi- consideration for others. have been defaced or ence unnecessary and “I would also urge destroyed in recent unsightly damage and everyone to be vigilant, months. destruction.” and to report any van- The Minister said: The Minister added dalism or anti-social “Vandalism is a blight that it can be far from a behaviour they see to which affects us all. victimless crime. the relevant authorities. While it is not a prob- She said: “I appeal “These areas belong lem unique to our In- to everyone who uses to, and are for the use land Waterways, it does our Inland Waterways of, everyone. We all have a particular impact to show care and think need to play our part in in areas of natural twice before defacing ensuring that they stay beauty. It is unfair that or destroying public welcoming and safe.” North Down Advertiser Page 16 Issue 92 - December 2013 Volunteering INTERTRADEIRELAND is good for ANNOUNCES NI REGIONAL your health SEEDCORN WINNERS 2013 Junior Ministers Jennifer McCann and Jonathan Bell Companies from Belfast and Newtownards each win €20,000 cash prize. welcomed research showing that volunteering has real InterTradeIreland recently projects. More than 1950 announced the Northern Ire- companies have taken part benefits for health and wellbeing. land regional winners of the since 2003 and previous The Ministers were hours you dedicate to people and organisations Seedcorn Investor Readiness finalists have gone on to lev- speaking at Volunteer helping your fellow citi- in the future. Competition 2013, the larg- erage around €170 million Now’s launch in Parlia- zens and the enormous “Government, the pri- est business competition of worth of equity since taking ment Buildings of a re- contribution you are vate sector and the vol- its kind across the island, of- part. This year, InterTra- search study and booklet making to a fairer and untary and community fering a total cash prize fund deIreland re-evaluated and highlighting the many more inclusive society. sector all have a role to of €280,000. updated the competition to benefits experienced by “I commend everyone play in supporting the The best ‘New Start’ com- more closely mirror the real- pany in Northern Ireland life investment process. volunteers aged 50 plus. who participated in this growth of volunteering. was unveiled as Belfast- The overall cash prize Commenting on the study as, without your Older people are par- based Blow Moulding Tech- for the title of Best ‘Early research undertaken by input and commitment, ticularly well placed to nologies and in the category Stage’ Company is €100,000 the University of Ulster the study would never volunteer and share their of best ‘Early Stage’ com- and the Best ‘New Start’ in partnership with Vol- have been completed. wealth of experience and pany, See.Sense. from New- company will win a total of unteer NOW’s Unlock- Genuine partnership and expertise. Volunteering townards, came out top in €50,000 with no equity stake ing Potential Project, collaboration is one of by older people benefits the Seedcorn regional final. taken in return. There will Junior Minister, Jennifer the benefits of volunteer- everyone and so we must Both firms are guaranteed also be a €10,000 award for McCann said: “We are ing. Volunteers help to do everything we can to to receive at least €20,000 the best venture stemming fortunate more people build a stronger com- support and encourage it. each and will now go on to from a University spin-out the all-island Seedcorn final are now living longer munity and do their bit “Volunteer NOW or support programme. on 27 November in Dublin Philip and Irene McAleese from See Sense pictured with judging The eight regional finalists and, by sharing experi- so people of all ages and continue to inform and to go up against the winners will make their investment ence and skills across all abilities get the most out encourage more people panel member Brian Caulfield from DFJ Esprit. from the other three regions, Picture: Darryl Mooney pitches to the judging panel walks of life, we ensure of life.” to consider volunteering. Dublin, Munster and Con- on 27 November and the our strong sense of com- The Unlocking Po- I commend them for rec- nacht and Leinster. winners will be announced munity which has sus- tential Project booklet ognising the contribution Blow Moulding Technolo- business. They have sold recently launched their first range of cycling products. that night at the awards cer- tained us in the past will “One Good Reason volunteers make, provid- gies (BMT), a spin-out firm products to US and Europe product, an intelligent bike See.Sense. launched its first emony in Clontarf Castle in continue to thrive. Our Campaign” provides ing access to opportuni- from Queen’s University, and are now investigating light than can help improve product on the crowdfund- Dublin. greatest strength will al- learning from the project ties and encouraging impressed the judges with its other market opportunities. cyclist visibility. The light ing website Kickstarter and For more information on ways be the potential of including market re- people to volunteer. I entry in the ‘New Start’ cat- See.Sense. from New- uses advanced sensor tech- sold over £30,000 worth of the InterTradeIreland Seed- our people and our com- search, health research thank all existing vol- egory. Established in 2011, townards is another ambi- nology from mobile phones, lights in a month. corn competition visit www. the company manufactures tious company with global so that it can flash faster and The main aim of the com- intertradeireland.com/seed munity to make a real findings as well as unteers and encourage and sells break-through test aspirations. The firm plans brighter at times when it is petition is to help businesses corn. difference. engagement and recruit- anyone thinking about equipment for the plastic to be the leading cycle most needed. The firm plans become investor ready and Companies can also fol- “When you volunteer ment techniques used to volunteering to give it a bottle manufacturing indus- technology company for the to apply its innovative use of to accelerate the develop- low Seedcorn on Twitter @ to help others you have recruit older volunteers. go.” try. BMT is a 100% export digital age and they have sensor technology to a wide ment of high potential ITI_Seedcorn. an increased sense of It also covers the impact self-worth, feel needed, of older volunteers on have a stronger will to local organisations and Robinson and McGuinness Northern Ireland live, and fewer symp- signposting to additional toms of depression and resources. anxiety. The volunteers Junior Minister welcome delegates ahead happiest place in present have proven they Jonathan Bell said: “I am have a natural sense of very pleased to launch community and an in- this booklet showcasing of Investment Conference UK says ONS stinct to look out for oth- just some of the work The First Minister Rt. Hon. Peter D. Robinson, MLA and People in Northern Ireland were happier than those in any ers, qualities which are undertaken by the Un- deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, MLA, joined other part of the UK last year, a survey has suggested. a really important part locking Potential Project of our fabric. I thank all and provides links to re- the Ambassadors and international delegates from 16 A third of people in you do in your life are ahead on the score board, volunteers for the many sources that will support countries for a welcome dinner ahead of a recent Investment Northern Ireland rated worthwhile? followed by Wales with Conference. their life satisfaction Overall, how happy did 31.7%, Scotland with The purpose of the one- with key decision-makers, benefits to our community, as nine out of 10, said you feel yesterday? 31.2% and finally England day conference was to in the impressive surround- by creating new jobs and the Office for National Overall, how anxious with 30.7%. showcase Northern Ireland’s ings of Hillsborough Castle. helping to boost economic Statistics. did you feel yesterday? Northern Ireland came a credentials as an excellent “The Investment Confer- growth. It also generates ad- England scored lowest People were asked to close second to Scotland location for foreign invest- ence is a direct result of the ditional opportunities within for life satisfaction, while rate the questions 0-10, however in levels of anxi- ment. It was attended by very positive impression the local supply chain and Scotland was rated the where 0 was “not at all” ety. Four out of 10 Scots around 150 potential and made by Northern Ireland leads to the expansion and least anxious country in and 10 was “completely”. rated their anxiety levels existing inward investors. at the G8 Summit in June. growth of many home- the UK. The survey took place as just 0-1. The First Minister said: It is great chance for us to grown businesses. It is the first time differ- between April 2012 and Happy in Hampshire “This evening’s dinner is capitalise on that and ensure “It is important poten- ences between UK nations March 2013. In England, the south- an opportunity to welcome that Northern Ireland retains tial investors get the right have been published. While 33% of people ern county of Hampshire the many senior executives, a high profile worldwide.” impression of a highly The ONS used data from in Northern Ireland rated scored some of the highest ambassadors and govern- The deputy First Minister competitive, stable, invest- the Annual Population their life satisfaction at average levels of personal ment representatives that commented: “Tonight’s ment location. The senior Survey from April 2012 9-10, Scotland came sec- well-being. have made the journey to be event is an excellent op- executives at the conference to March 2013 which ond with 27%, Wales third Bath and North East part of this investment con- portunity to strengthen our will find a business-friendly included the responses of with 26.8% and England Somerset, Cornwall and ference, as well as current bonds with existing inves- Executive ready to support around 165,000 people. last with 25.6%. Rutland also registered investors who have made tors and to warmly welcome international investment.” Four questions to moni- Wales, however, had high scores in the four such a valuable contribution potential investors who The Northern Ireland In- tor personal well-being in proportionately more peo- questions. to our economy. have taken the time to come vestment Conference is or- the UK were asked: ple than any other nation The lowest personal “While the conference and hear what we have ganised by Invest Northern Overall, how satisfied in the UK who rated their well-being rates were proper begins tomorrow, to offer as an investment Ireland on behalf of the NI are you with your life life satisfaction as low. found in Stoke-on-Trent, this evening’s event is a location. Executive and is sponsored nowadays? The ONS said Wales inner London, Blackburn unique opportunity for us “Foreign Direct Invest- by British Airways and Overall, to what extent had the highest level of and County Durham. to begin building relations ment can bring many Danske Bank. do you feel the things unemployment among In Wales, Gwynedd, the UK countries at 8.4% the Isle of Anglesey and between February to April Pembrokeshire were the 2013. happiest areas, while In response to how Newport, Blaenau Gwent worthwhile people felt and Caerphilly reported their lives were, Northern low levels of happiness. Ireland triumphed again In Scotland, Eilean Siar, with 37.6% choosing the Orkney and Shetland, most positive responses, Dumfries and Galloway while Wales, England and and Highland registered Scotland followed with higher levels of well-be- 31.9%, 31.2% and 31% ing against the less happy respectively. areas of North Ayrshire, For happiness, Northern Dundee City and Glasgow Ireland was again well City. Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 17 Where Are You Foster Comments On Really Eating Out Latest Labour Market & In North Down? Services Output Figures Check Before You Choose Figures released recently for the period July - September 2013 show that the Northern Ireland unemployment rate decreased by 0.2 percentage points over the quarter to 7.3%. 91% of food busi- have hygiene standards Down to find out the nesses in the North below that expected by hygiene standards of More recent figures equivalent rates in also note that the Ul- Shanghai in China. support from Invest NI, Down area have a food food law. the food businesses in for October 2013 show the European Union ster Bank’s Purchasing Later this week, I plan will undoubtedly pro- hygiene rating of three Consumers in North the area. Most people that the number of (10.9%) and Republic Managers’ Index re- to travel to Dubai to vide quality opportuni- or above. This is great Down can look out for would like to think unemployment benefit of Ireland (13.6%). The corded a fourth consec- support a number of ties for local businesses news for would-be claimants decreased by more recent unemploy- utive monthly increase local businesses who and people, contribut- diners in the area but 600 over the month. ment benefit figures in business activity will be exhibiting at ing to the growth of what about the 9% of There has been a fall of for October are also during October.” Dubai Airshow along our local economy.” food businesses that 3,900 in the claimant encouraging, showing The Minister contin- with others who are Further information don’t meet the hygiene figures over the last 9 a fall in this measure ued: “A lot of work is attending Seafex, the on the latest labour standard? months. of unemployment for going in to encourag- Middle East and Africa market figures is avail- This is where the Commenting on the the ninth consecutive ing investment into Seafood Exhibition. able in the Labour Food Hygiene Rat- figures, Enterprise, month. Northern Ireland. “These events show- Market Statistical Press ing Scheme provides Trade and Investment “The more recent Building on the success case Northern Ireland Release (see http:// invaluable access to Minister Arlene Foster continued decrease in of last month’s Invest- as a great place to do www.detini.gov.uk/ information about what Do you check the hygiene standard of the said: “The decrease in the unemployment rate ment Conference, 20 business, thanks to its deti-stats-index/stats- goes on behind-the- places you eat? the Northern Ireland as well as the fall in local companies from competitive cost base, labour-market.htm) scenes in all food busi- unemployment rate is unemployment benefit a variety of sectors developed infrastruc- and from the Northern nesses to check food is the green and black that the kitchens and welcome and means recipients demonstrates including food, legal ture and highly skilled Ireland Executive prepared hygienically food hygiene rating food preparation areas that we remain below that there is some and manufacturing are workforce. New for- website (http://www. and safely. The scheme stickers which should in the places they buy that of the UK (7.6%). improvement in the currently participating eign investment and northernireland.gov. allows you to check the be displayed on win- food from are clean and This also compares labour market which in an Invest NI Trade export opportunities, uk/index/media-centre. rating of a business and dows and doors to hygienic. The stickers favourably to the is to be welcomed. I Mission to Ningbo and along with continued htm). if it’s below three, you find out the rating of make it easy for eve- can choose to switch to any food business in ryone to check a rating a business with a higher the area. No sign of and if it is below three Population rating. a sticker? Then ask you should consider Prepare The scheme, which inside or check online switching your choice is operated by North at food.gov.uk/ratings rather than eat some- Down Borough Council to make sure the busi- where with a low hy- to reach rates food businesses on ness doesn’t have a low giene rating. Our aim is Now for the a scale of zero to five, rating. to drive up standards so with zero meaning ‘ur- Colin Magill Senior that all food businesses 1.9million gent improvement nec- Environmental Health in the area have a rating essary’ and the top rat- Officer at North Down of three or above.” Challenges ing of five representing Borough Council, com- Go online and check by 2020 a ‘very good’ standard mented: “The Food out the food hygiene The population is projected to of food hygiene. Those Hygiene Rating Scheme rating of your favourite reach 1.9million by 2020, according to businesses with a rat- is a fantastic tool for local eateries at food. new figures released recently by the of Winter ing of zero, one or two all consumers in North gov.uk/ratings. Statistics and Research Agency. Age NI’s Head of Services is urging older people to prepare The figures show that: 2022), the number of now for the challenges of winter. · the population is ex- children, aged under 16, Jacqui Corscadden what they’re entitled to Contact the Age NI Football Coach Scores pected to increase due to is projected to rise by commented, ‘It’s fan- and others struggle to Advice Service on free- more births than deaths. 5% - 382,000 to 401,000. tastic that the summer cope with the complexi- phone 0808 808 7575 Over the next decade, The population aged 16 sun is still shining and ties of the forms and the today and speak to one the population is set to to 64 will remain around there’s still some linger- claims process. Age NI of our local advisors in In Justice In The increase by 10,000 each 1,174,000; ing heat in the air, but Is here to help.’ confidence. year due to natural growth · the Northern Ireland it won’t be long until (24,000 births and 14,000 population reached the nights are drawing Community Awards deaths annually); 1.80million in 2010, stood in and the cold weather · in the next five years, at 1.82million in 2012, arrives.’ North Belfast football coach Paul Hamilton has been migration is expected to and is projected to reach ‘Age NI’s Advice remove 3,000 people from 1.90million in 2020. Over crowned a ‘Justice Champion’ for voluntary services to his Service is overwhelmed the population. This is in the longer term, the popu- community. contrast to 2004-8 when lation is projected to reach in the winter months Justice Minister Dav- problems within local Craigavon ACT (Ac- migration added 32,000 to 2million by 2036. with calls from older id Ford presented Paul communities. tive Communities the population, however Dr David Marshall, people who are particu- with his award at the David Ford said: Against Human Traf- since then emigration has from the Statistics and larly concerned about fi- ‘Justice in the Commu- “Each year at the ficking) for raising risen and immigration Research Agency, com- nancial matters. I would nity’ Awards ceremony presentation of these awareness of the is- fallen; mented: “Over the next urge older people, their at Stormont in recogni- awards I am ever more sues and reality of · the projections show decade, the population family and carers to tion of his outstanding encouraged by the human trafficking in a large increase in the is expected to grow by contact us now on free- number of older people. contribution to the humanity within our the Craigavon area, 10,000 each year – reach- phone 0808 808 7575 if Numbers of those aged ing 1.9million in 2020. they’re worried about young people of his society. These are ex- and Ewan Morgan and 65 and over are projected Today’s new figures also community. ceptional people doing Elizabeth Kimmins paying their heating bills to increase by a quarter point to our older popula- or having enough money Justice in the Com- exceptional work for for their work through in ten years (2012-2022), tion continuing to grow munity Awards recog- our community. The Community Restora- over winter. We provide from 273,000 to 344,000. and increasingly shaping a free benefits check and nise individuals and nominees represent the tive Justice Ireland in The oldest, aged 85 and Northern Ireland soci- teams, voluntary work- best of the work that supporting communi- over, are projected to ety. As an example, the can often help older peo- ers and staff working goes on daily in our ties within neighbour- rise by nearly 50% from number of people aged 85 ple to access additional within community and community and statu- hood renewable areas 33,000 to 48,000; and over is set to rise by financial support. Some- statutory organisa- tory sector to support across Newry City. · over the decade (2012- 50% in ten years.” times people don’t know tions across Northern the Justice system. Ireland. Nominated “Many of these peo- projects this year ple voluntarily give ranged from mentoring their time, working services for ex-offend- selflessly to make ers, mediating commu- Northern Ireland a nity disputes, building safer, better, place for community relations all of us. These people between residents and are truly inspirational the police to provid- and we owe a debt of ing opportunities for gratitude to them.” young people as an Also named ‘Justice alternative to a life of Champions’ were Mel crime and to address Wiggins and Laura anti-social behaviour Wylie, founders of North Down Advertiser Page 18 Issue 92 - December 2013 Foster launches N. I’s TRANSLINK SUPPORT first Carbon Monoxide Female Football Awareness Month Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Arlene Foster recently launched Leaders PROGRAMME Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month at an event in Parliament Buildings, Stormont. THE Irish FA celebrated the graduation of inspirational local women who Developed by members difficult to diagnose, a new safety action month it will be per- completed a Female Football Leaders Programme last month. of the Carbon Monoxide mimicking those of other checklist produced by formed in 28 post-prima- One of the graduates, Safety Group, Northern common illnesses such the Royal Society for the ry schools and other local Translink Community Safe- Ireland’s first Carbon as flu and headaches. Prevention of Accidents venues. ty Officer Susan O’Neill, Monoxide Awareness “The best way to pro- (RoSPA) in the event of “While tackling a se- explains the importance of Month aims to help tect yourself and others a carbon monoxide alarm rious issue, the play’s the course: protect the public from is to make sure any fuel going off. hard-hitting message is “Over the last twelve the dangers of carbon burning appliances are Under the acronym presented with humour months, seven women from monoxide. serviced by a registered ‘TASK’ the checklist is and is a very innovative across Northern Ireland Urging everyone to engineer at least once presented as an easily way to deliver an impor- undertook the programme, get behind the new a year. Also, chimneys accessible fridge magnet tant safety message to which required comple- awareness drive, Arlene and flues should also be for easy access for homes our young people.” tion of the ILM ‘Women Foster also underlined inspected annually and and businesses. At the During the month Leading the Way’ course, the dangers of Carbon swept, if required, by a recent launch, guests members of the Carbon delivered by the Training Monoxide and urged registered technician. were also given a pre- Monoxide Safety Group for Women Network, and further units on resilience, everyone to take effec- “As an additional pre- view of a gripping drama and organisations in the high impact conversations tive measures to keep caution, you should also called ‘TOXIC’, which private and public sector and board training, deliv- themselves and others install an audible carbon highlights the dangers will also promote carbon ered by Advance Coaching. safe. The Minister said: monoxide alarm.” and fallout when deadly monoxide awareness “The Irish FA conceived “Carbon monoxide is Arlene Foster also Carbon Monoxide gas throughout Northern Ire- this programme to address often referred to as the praised the ongoing work affects a home. land. For more informa- the lack of females within Pictured at the graduation are Rosie McKee (Coach of Ulidia ‘silent killer’ as you can- by members of Northern Arlene Foster contin- tion contact the Health leadership positions in Integrated College); Michelle Maxwell (NIWFA Fixture Secretary); not see, smell or taste it. Ireland’s Carbon Monox- ued: “To date, ‘TOXIC’ and Safety Executive for football and ultimately Paula Reed (Volunteer Coach at Carnmoney Ladies FC); Colette Young “In addition, the symp- ide Safety Group to pro- has reached some 10,000 Northern Ireland on 0800 encourage more women to (Acting Vice Chair of NIWFA); Karen Espelund, the Chair of the UEFA toms of carbon monox- mote carbon monoxide pupils throughout North- 0320 121 or visit: www. get involved in decision- Women’s Football Committee and a member of the UEFA Executive ide poisoning are often awareness. This includes ern Ireland and this hseni.gov.uk/watchout making roles within their Committee; Michelle Crawford (Coach at Linfield Ladies FC); Susan local football clubs. The O’Neill (Acting Chair of NIWFA); and Valerie Heron (Treasurer of programme has exceeded Killyleagh Youth FC). all expectations and we Ministers O’Dowd and Quinn Launch are really proud to be the ball Leaders Programme making conscious deci- tory by becoming the first first graduates from the as part of the SCORE 2 sions to change this situa- female to be elected onto pilot programme, which is Project. Funded through the tion. Within football UEFA the FIFA Executive Com- ‘Decade Of Centenaries’ All-Island scheduled to run again next UEFA HatTrick Women’s were the first to address the mittee. In addition, FIFA year.” Football Development issue when they co-opted also co-opted Moya Dodd Schools History Competition The graduation ceremony, Programme, this ground- Karen Espelund, the former (vice-president of the held at the Long Gallery breaking initiative is the General Secretary of the Asian Football Confedera- Education Minister, John O’Dowd MLA, and his southern counterpart, Ruairí in Parliament Buildings, first of its kind to be de- Norwegian Football Asso- tion) and Sonia Bien-Aime Quinn TD, recently jointly launched the ‘Decade of Centenaries’ all-island schools Stormont, included an ad- veloped and piloted by the ciation, on to their Execu- (Secretary General at Turks dress from keynote speaker Irish FA. The programme tive Committee. Two years and Caicos Islands Football history competition. Karen Espelund, the Chair concentrates on improving later Karen is an official Association) to FIFA’s top The competition invites of University College, the winning entries, will and social life across this of the UEFA Women’s the leadership competen- member of the Committee table for one year. primary and post-primary Dublin. There will be also be considered for island.” Football Committee and a cies and confidence of and at the heart of UEFA To find out more details students from schools three winning projects publication in ‘History In launching the event, member of the UEFA Ex- women working locally in decision-making processes. about applying for this across Ireland to submit from each province, with Ireland’. Minister Quinn highlight- ecutive Committee. football. FIFA followed a similar training programme, please a project that identifies a at least one prize in each This joint cross-border ed the importance of the Keen to follow in the The absence of female process and at the FIFA contact Sara Booth, the particular event or person province reserved for initiative forms part of the ‘Decade of Centenaries’. footsteps of the European leaders within key deci- Congress in Mauritius in Irish FA Women’s Domes- from the decade 1912- primary pupils. All win- ‘Decade of Centenaries’ He said: “The legacy of and World governing bod- sion making roles in sport May the Burundi Football tic Football Manager via 1922. It should examine ning projects will receive commemorations which the events of that period, ies of football, the Irish FA is well documented and Association President email sbooth@IrishFA. the impact of that event book tokens and will be are being organised to including the 1916 rising, developed the Female Foot- many organisations are Lydia Nsekera made his- com. or person on their local published online at http:// mark the centenary of the the War of Independence, area. The project can be www.scoilnet.ie. many important historical the Government of Ire- submitted by a class, a The overall winning events that occurred in land Act and the signing group of students or an entry will also receive the period 1912-1922. of the Treaty, were piv- Too Much Sitting individual student. a year’s subscription to Minister O’Dowd otal in the formation of The projects will be ‘History Ireland’. An ed- pointed to the benefits the political landscape as assessed by a three- ited version of the overall of the all-island schools we know it today. Tied to Colon Cancer person panel chaired by winning project, or a history competition for “It is appropriate that Men who are more sedentary face a higher risk of recurring colon polyps, Professor Mary Daly selection of extracts from students and said: “By these events are com- according to a new study, even if these men break up their downtime with bouts of assessing the impact of an memorated and that this event or person from that is done in as inclusive a recreational activities such as walking, jogging or golf. decade on their local area, way as possible so that This suggests that precancerous polyps. postdoctoral research found an association it will enrich students’ their impact on the dif- extended inactivity is Men who spent 11 fellow in the depart- between sedentary be- understanding of how his- ferent traditions on this itself a risk factor for or more hours a day ment of epidemiol- havior and increased torical events can impact island can be understood noncancerous colon in seated endeavors ogy at the Columbia risk of colon polyps in on the everyday lives of and respected.” polyps, benign tumors -- such as writing or University Mailman men, it did not prove a ordinary people. The deadline for receipt that can give rise to reading -- were 45 School of Public cause-and-effect rela- “This is something that of completed projects colorectal cancer, the percent more likely to Health, said in a con- tionship. The authors cannot be overlooked if is 4 April 2014. Further researchers said. develop polyps than ference news release. said no protective link we are to fully appreci- details on the competition Known as “colorec- those who spent less “Even among those has been established ate how events in the are available at http:// tal adenomas,” these than seven hours a day who fulfill daily rec- between being more past have influenced, and www.deni.gov.uk/the- polyps typically can engaged in sedentary ommendations for active and having a often continue to influ- decade-of-centenaries-all- be removed after be- behavior. physical activity, lower risk for colorec- ence, the development of island-history-competi- ing identified during The study, funded by lengthy periods of sed- tal cancer. modern political, cultural tion.htm a colorectal cancer the U.S. National Insti- entary behavior have “Given the substan- screening, such as a tutes of Health and the been associated with tial increase in risk of colonoscopy. U.S. National Cancer early morbidity and [colon polyp] recur- The recurrence of Institute, was sched- mortality, leading to rence we observed for such polyps, however, uled for presentation the ‘active couch po- men with the highest seems to be greater recently at the annual tato’ paradigm,” Sardo sedentary time, we be- among men (but not cancer-prevention con- Molmenti said. lieve it would be ben- women) who are rela- ference of the Ameri- Because this study eficial to see ‘reduce tively less active. The can Association for is being presented at prolonged sitting time’ researchers looked at Cancer Research, held a medical meeting, added to the list of activity levels among in Oxon Hill, Md. the data and conclu- public-health recom- more than 1,700 men “Sedentary behavior sions should be viewed mendations currently and women, and found is emerging as a risk as preliminary until in place for health that the more leisurely factor for poor health,” published in a peer- promotion and disease the men’s lifestyle, the study author Christine reviewed journal. prevention,” Sardo greater their risk for Sardo Molmenti, a Although the study Molmenti said. Christmas in north down North Down Advertiser Page 19 North Down Borough Traditional Council Signs up to Christmas Pudding Christmas pudding is a type of pudding traditionally served on International Cultural Route Christmas Day as part of the Christmas On Friday 15th November the Mayor of North Down, Cllr Andrew Muir, joined dinner. with Mayors and dignitaries from Italy and France, along with international It has its origins in me- sprig of holly and local Church and Cultural bodies, in signing up to the establishment of an dieval England, and is Initial cooking usually sometimes known as plum involves steaming for many association to create an European Cultural route, “The Columban Way”, based pudding or Christmas Pud- hours. To serve, the pud- on the life and travels of both Bangor, and central Europe’s most famous Saint, ding or just “pud”, though ding is reheated by steaming Columbanus. this can also refer to other once more, and dressed with The signing took place tral Europe and is to be establishment of monas- poetry, and was the first kinds of boiled pudding in- warm brandy which is set in Bangor Town Hall formally established by teries and settlements. Irish man of whom a bi- volving dried fruit. Despite alight. It can be eaten with the name “plum pudding,” hard sauce, brandy butter, and will see the start of a 2015, the year that will Mayor of North Down, ography was written, by the pudding contains no rum butter, cream, lemon process that over the next mark the 1400th anniver- Cllr Andrew Muir; “I am fellow Monk, Jonas. The actual plums due to the pre- cream, custard, or sweetened number of months will sary of the passing of St delighted to be welcom- creation of this route will Victorian use of the word béchamel, and is sometimes develop an application to Columbanus. This anni- ing my counterparts from be a fitting testimony on “plums” as a term for raisins. sprinkled with caster sugar. be presented to the Euro- versary year one that will Italy and France to Ban- a European scale to the The pudding is composed pean Cultural Committee be marked with events gor for this occasion. Not man and his work”. of many dried fruits and is in Luxembourg that will throughout the European only did Columbanus His importance to the held together by egg and see the union formally countries he was influen- play a pivotal role in the Church and European suet, sometimes moistened recognised as an official tial in. spread of Christianity Christianity as a whole by treacle or molasses. Also, European Cultural Route. After the initial route in mainland Europe but is also none more so flavoured with cinnamon, The initial route is is formed it is envisaged his importance both here evident by the formal nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and to comprise of Ban- that it will then expand and in Europe has been proposal in 2012 to the other spices. gor, Luxeuil-les-Bains to take in the additional recognised in that he was Vatican to see St Colum- Many households have (France) and Bobbio countries of Switzerland, the first person to use the banus bestowed with a their own recipe for Christ- (Italy) and will recognise Austria and Germany term “European”, was Patronage of Europe title mas pudding, some handed the influence of Colum- where Columbanus also notably our first “man of to mark the anniversary down through families for banus’ work within cen- left his mark through the Letters”, famous for his in 2015. generations. Essentially the recipe brings together what traditionally were expensive or luxurious ingredients — notably the sweet spices that are so important in develop- Don’t overspend ing its distinctive rich aroma, and usually made with suet. It is very dark in appearance — effectively black — as this Christmas a result of the dark sugars and black treacle in most Make it through this Christmas with these handy tips. recipes, and its long cook- Gift List Know Your Budget to it and you’ll both be will offer a number of ing time. The mixture can Compile your very Sounds simple enough thankful come the time months free on your be moistened with the juice of citrus fruits, brandy and own shopping list for but every year many your stuffing yourself purchases sounds perfect other alcohol. the gifts, window shop- people get caught out, full of turkey. For indi- but just wait for a few Prior to the 19th century, ping is a great way to get either buying over- vidual budgeting, know months when you start the English Christmas pud- some ideas, take a note priced or simply pricey who your buying for. If getting those inflated ding was boiled in a pudding of that perfect gift for presents. Rule with your your not certain of what bills. Do your research cloth, and often represented that special person. Plan- head and not your heart, they’d want, gift cards - some deals may make as round. The new Victorian ning what your buying get caught and you’ll are always a good buy. more sense to pay over era fashion involved putting will save you a whole be paying for this years Credit cards/ get 3 time, work out how the batter into a basin and lot of time and will save gifts up until the follow- months free. much interest you may then steaming it, followed you from last minute- ing Christmas, ‘ahh the Be careful when using have to pay and if there by unwrapping the pudding, shopping stress. The stress’. Set an overall any of your credit or will be sharp fees should placing it on a platter, and internet is the perfect total budget and an in- store cards, some shops you miss a payment. decorating the top with a place to start browsing, dividual/families budget. there’s many price com- You could make your parison sites to help you purchasing decisions that out although they don’t much more simple. Fam- usually have every store ilies tend to over-spend covered so make sure to on one another. Don’t do double check to make it this year, give them a sure that is the best deal call and ask them not to around. go crazy this year, stick North Down Advertiser Page 20 Christmas in north down The 12 cocktails of Christmas There are a number of traditional Christmas or winter holiday drinks, but in recent years people have gotten very creative. Some people have created well, whatever struck my makes it perfect for gather- vodka and a rim that’s cocoa Christmas-themed cocktails fancy as a winter holiday ings that include drinkers powder mixed with cayenne. from scratch, while others cocktail. and non-drinkers. Not your typical Christmas have added Christmas twists 1. Eggnog is a tradition for 2. Hot Buttered Rum is a fare. to existing cocktail recipes. a reason. It tastes great with classic, cuddly sort of drink 10. Tired of being a grown This is a collection of… or without alcohol, which – perfect for small parties up? Get a Snowball down and parties of two. you. A blended, creamy 3. Mulled Wine is a win- drink featuring tequila and tertime classic – red wine cinnamon. with sugar and all sorts of 11. The Poinsettia is spices. very simple: champagne, 4. The Peppermint Stick Cointreau and cranberry uses white creme de cacao juice. and peppermint schnapps to 12. The Candy Cane get a mint chocolate flavor. blends peppermint schnapps Easy to serve one by one or with berry vodka and creme in premixed pitchers. de cacao to make a drink 5. The Christmas Cookie Remember to enjoy those yummy cocktails that truly passes for dessert. blends the commonly paired responsibly during this festive season Bonus: It’s not exactly Kahlua and Bailey’s with an “cocktails” and certainly unexpected shot of pepper- 7. The Santa Shot layers 8. The Chocolate Rasp- not traditional, but you can mint schnapps. peppermint schnapps, grena- berry Martini is just what it make Skittles Vodka in red 6.Had enough of the holi- dine and green creme de sounds like. Oh, yes, it is. and green in presentation days already? Have a Grinch menthe for a beautiful little 9. The Red Hot Santa Tini flasks – or Vodka Gummi and feel better. shot of Christmas spirit. uses chili-pepper infused Bears in red and green. The Colour Of Christmas There are several colors which are traditionally associated with Christmas. The traditional colours sands of years to decorate formed, often on Christmas the cross. Red would also used are Red, Green and and brighten up buildings Eve. They told Bible stories have been worn by St. Ni- Gold. But why do we have during the long dark winter. to people who couldn’t read. cholas and then also became them and what do the col- They also reminded people The ‘Paradise Tree’ in the Santa’s uniform! ours represent? that spring would come garden of eden in the play Gold Green and that winter wouldn’t was normally a pine tree Gold is the colour of the Evergreen plants, like last forever! The Romans with red apples tied to it. Sun and light - both very Holly, Ivy and Mistletoe would exchange evergreen Red important in the dark winter. have been used for thou- branches during January As mentioned above, an And both red and gold are as a sign of good luck. The early use of red at Christmas the colours of fire that you ancient Egyptians used to were the apples on the para- need to keep you warm. bring palm branches into dise tree. They represented Gold was also one of the their houses during the mid the fall of Adam in the presents brought to the baby winter festivals. plays. Red is also the colour Jesus by one of the wise In many parts of Europe of Holly berries, which is men and traditionally it’s the during the middle ages, said to represent the blood colour used to show the star Paradise plays were per- of Jesus when he died on that the wise men followed. why not try Secret Santa this year? Secret Santa is a Christmas tradition in which members of a group or community are randomly assigned a person to whom they anonymously give a gift. Often practiced in work- Santa or Kris Kringle in opened gift. places or amongst large Canada, and the Philippines Secret Casino Santa families, participation in it (where it is also known In this version, each per- is usually voluntary. It of- as Monito-monita). All of son buys a gift for specific fers a way for many people these names derive from amount, not for anyone spe- to give and receive a gift at traditional Christmas cifically. Each person also low cost. gift-bringers. puts in a specific amount of Deriving from the Chris- Thieving Secret Santa money into a pot. Who goes tendom tradition, the ritual In this version, par- first in gift selection can is known as Secret Santa ticipants bring one gift each be determined by random in the United States, Kris which is potentially suitable selection. The options are: Kringle or Chris Kindle or interesting to any of the Option A: Choose a gift (Christkindl) in Ireland, Se- other participants. The gifts Option B: Do not choose cret Santa, Kris Kringle or should be wrapped in such a gift, and go for money. Chris Kindle (Christkindl) a way as to disguise their Option C: Put your name in parts of Australia, Secret nature. in to win all the unwanted Ideally, the provider of gifts by those who went for each gift should not be dis- Option B. closed when setting up the At the end, the gifts that game. Players take turns, were chosen are opened and and can either open a new the winner of the money gift, or steal a previously and leftover gifts are drawn. Christmas in north down North Down Advertiser Page 21 You don’t need to be Bangor Christmas claiming benefits to claim Market Returns a Winter Fuel Payment Bangor Market has been operational Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has urged people born on or before 5 January 1952, who have not received in Bangor over the past 80 years. a Winter Fuel Payment before, to pick up the phone and check if they are eligible. It is an open air Mar- On Wednesday 19th Minister McCausland qualify for this extra ensure that you receive Industrial Injuries Ben- 5 January 1952 to contact household the payment is ket located at ASDA car December the market said: “With winter fast money. an automatic payment efits and War Pensions. the Winter Fuel Payment split between them. park every Wednesday traders and Santa will approaching it is impera- “Previous recipients of are Income Support, The Minister contin- helpline on 0845 9151 New claimants can also from 7am- 1pm. It of- be preparing for the tive that older people get Winter Fuel Payments State Pension Credit, ued: “However, some 515 to check if they can download a form online fers a wide range of Christmas festivities. all the support they need will automatically re- Jobseeker’s Allowance, older people who have make a claim.” at http://www.nidirect. local produce ranging Come along and stock to be able to meet the ceive their payment be- Employment and Support never before received a Winter Fuel payments gov.uk/winter-fuel-pay- from fresh vegetables, up on the fresh pro- costs of their heating fore Christmas and if you Allowance, State Pen- Winter Fuel Payment and are £200 for those house- ment or call the helpline fish, cakes, seasonal duce, grab a sprig of bills. Winter Fuel Pay- were in receipt of State sion, Widows Benefit, who were not receiving holds with someone over on 0845 9151 515, (0845 plants, clothing and holly and a last minute ments are paid to those Pension or certain other Bereavement Benefit, In- State Pension or certain women’s state pension 601 5613 for textphone much more. Most present or two. people born on or before benefits during the week capacity Benefit, Severe benefits on the qualify- age and £300 for those users). importantly there is a Have a Happy Christ- 5 January 1952. Many of 16-22 September 2013 Disablement Allowance, ing week, will need to households with some- Payments have now warm welcome from all mas and we will look people may not realise you will also receive it Attendance Allowance, apply. I would therefore one aged 80 or over. If started and new claims the traders and a bit of forward to seeing you at that you do not need to automatically.” Disability Living Allow- encourage all of these there is more than one must be received no later banter. be claiming benefits to The benefits which ance, Carer’s Allowance, people born on or before eligible claimant in the than 31 March 2014. Bangor Market. How to Get Into the Boxing Day Spirit of Christmas Boxing Day is traditionally the day following Christmas Day, when servants and tradesmen would receive gifts from their bosses or employers, known as a “Christmas box”. when You Don’t Feel Today, Boxing Day is to collect donations to the ally celebrated on 26 better known as a bank or poor. December, the day after public holiday that occurs In Britain, it was a Christmas Day, which is It Any More on 26 December, or the custom for tradesmen to also St. Stephen’s Day, a Christmas time is here, by golly, but do you really want to first or second weekday collect “Christmas boxes” religious holiday. When deck the halls with hunks of holly? after Christmas Day, of money or presents on 26 December falls on a Are you left cold by the to collect and deliver your wielding mobs of bargain- depending on national or the first weekday after Sunday, Boxing Day in commercialism, and yearn gifts. For you, the spirit of crazed shoppers. regional laws. Christmas as thanks for many Commonwealth for a simpler time when the the season is about holiday Enjoy Christmas tel- The exact etymology good service throughout countries and former Brit- season felt special, imbued parties at the office, finding evision. “Every time a of the term “boxing” is the year. This custom is ish dominions is moved with a spirit that wasn’t a parking space on the high bell rings, an angel gets its unclear. There are several linked to an older Eng- to 27 December. In the poured into the eggnog? Do street, hustling and bustling wings!” Whether your tastes competing theories, none lish tradition: Since they UK, Boxing Day is a you really feel like recaptur- to get the best deals, ex- run towards the traditional of which is definitive. The would have to wait on bank holiday. If Boxing ing some of the magic and changing gifts with friends Miracle on 34th Street, the European tradition, which their masters on Christ- Day falls on a Saturday, wonder of the season and and loved ones, and best classics like A Christmas has long included giving mas Day, the servants of the following Monday is setting aside the mad rush of all: the look of delight Carol by Dickens (or it’s money and other gifts to the wealthy were allowed given as a substitute bank to go out and buy just for on your loved one’s faces modern comedic take with those who were needy and the next day to visit their holiday. On the occasion the sake of buying? You can as they open the gift that’s Scrooged), stop-action in service positions, has families. The employers when Christmas Day is on do it! exactly what they wanted— animations like Rudolph been dated to the Middle would give each servant a a Saturday – with Boxing Whatever your reason, even though they never said the Red-Nosed Reindeer or Ages, but the exact origin box to take home contain- Day on the Sunday – the or whatever your notion of a word about it! Nightmare Before Christ- is unknown. It is believed ing gifts and bonuses, and following Monday (27) the season might be, here Avoid the crazy crowds. mas, or cult classics like A to be in reference to sometimes leftover food. and Tuesday (28) of De- are some things you can do Whatever your reason for Christmas Story, holiday the Alms Box placed in Boxing Day is a secular cember both become bank to recapture the Spirit of the season, nothing can kill television is filled with places of worship in order holiday that is tradition- holidays. Christmas. the holiday spirit quicker nostalgia, humour, morality Put gas in your sleigh. Or than being crushed against plays, and lots of simple, fun car, or whatever it is you use the front of a store by gun- entertainment. Give a gift of time this Christmas Christmas is a time around the house such helpers. Just by helping for spending time with as maintaining the gar- with some simple tasks family and friends but den or assist with some you could make some- can also be a very lonely shopping or heavy work one else’s and your own time for many. Why around the yard such as Christmas even better not make some time to loading the coal bunker than you thought! spend with an elderly There are always lots neighbour? This can be of community char- especially appreciated at ity events at this time of this time of year when year where an extra pair the weather can leave of hands can be useful the vulnerable especially – whether it’s baking a isolated. cake for a sale, manning You could offer to help a stall or even becom- them with some tasks ing one of Santa’s little North Down Advertiser Page 22 Issue 92 - December 2013 Advice Issued To Schools Who will cut On Dangers Of Concussion Education Minister, John O’Dowd, has written to all local schools to provide the grass? further information on concussion and to improve awareness of its dangers. A new book has been launched by Cancer Focus Northern Ireland to help very n his correspond- to concussion suffers sions with the Chief be aware of the risks young children when their mum, dad or grandparent has cancer. ence, the Minis- a second head injury. Medical Officer on the and the signs they need ter has directed Sadly this was, accord- best way forward. to look for and my ‘Who will cut the I grass?’ was written by schools to advice on ing to the Coroner’s “The letter I letter to schools asks how to recognise the report, the cause of have issued today Boards of Governors the leading local char- signs of concussion Benjamin Robinson’s signposts schools to consider how they ity’s family service and has asked them to death in 2011 follow- to the Concussion might convey the co-ordinator, Rachel ensure everyone in- ing a head injury sus- Recognition Tool messages in the CRT to Smith, and illustrated volved in the running tained whilst playing a (CRT) which contains parents. by another staff mem- of sporting activities school rugby match. a checklist to help “We need to ensure ber, art therapist Joanne at schools, including “Following Ben- coaches, teachers and that pupils are Boal. parents and pupils jamin’s inquest, I com- parents recognise the educated about this “I meet families every themselves, are aware mitted to implementing signs of concussion. important issue. They day who are facing very of the risks. any lessons that could Schools need to ensure need to know the signs tough and sad times. Mr O’Dowd said: “I be learned from this that all staff, especially they should look for Cancer is traumatic, not have written to all lo- tragic incident, which those involved in the if one their friends only for the person but cal schools as I want to had such a devastating delivery of sporting sustains a head injury for the whole family. ensure that schools are impact on those who activities, and others so that they can raise Children love stories so aware of the dangers knew him. Carál Ní they bring into their concerns with I thought this would be of concussion and the Chuilín, Minister for school from external the appropriate adult. the perfect way to talk fact that it can lead to Culture, Arts and Lei- organisations to deliver I have therefore asked to them on their level,” death. I also want to sure, who has respon- sporting activities, are schools to consider Rachel explained. highlight Second Im- sibility for sport in the aware of the signs of how they can convey “I’ve found that many pact Syndrome, a rare north, and I met with concussion and Second the messages in the children worry about condition which can Benjamin’s parents Impact Syndrome and CRT to pupils in the the practicalities of occur when a person in recent weeks and I the associated risks. classroom in an age- everyday living when a with symptoms related have also had discus- “Parents also need to appropriate manner.” close adult has cancer. They worry about who will pick them up from school, make them Are You Winter Ready? lunch or help them lace Andrew Bond (10), who attends the Cancer Focus Northern Ireland their shoes. Family Support Service, and Firefighter Fintan Burns read a new “The idea for the book for young children to help them cope with the loss of a parent what to do if the book came from a lit- to cancer. Who will cut the grass? was written by Rachel Smith and tle boy whose dad was illustrated by Joanne Boal, both from Cancer Focus. Photo by Paul very sick. When his McCambridge. power goes out dad died he asked me ‘Who’s going to cut the dren when Dad is ill families have a pet and The books are free With the recent drop in temperature there is no doubt that winter is grass?’ and how Mum has to I think they add a few to Cancer Focus serv- approaching and Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE), the network company, has “This story is told by learn to do things that smiles to a very sad sit- ice users and are also issued advice to its customers on how to cope if their electricity supplies are nine-year-old Elliott he used to do. With uation,” she explained. available to others for interrupted due to poor weather. just as his dad Harvey, its beautiful, touching This is Rachel and £3 each from Cancer NIE is continuously a firefighter, is diag- pictures, ‘Who will cut Joanne’s second book. Focus at 44 Eglantine upgrading and main- nosed with cancer. The the grass?’ deals with Their first is called Avenue, Belfast. For taining the electricity story follows him, his some of the difficult ‘Who will do my hair?’ more information call network to substantial- sister and brother as questions children may about a little girl who 028 9066 3281, email ly reduce the number Harvey grows sicker have. worries when her mum care@cancerfocusni. and length of disrup- and then dies. “It’s a sad story but I is sick. Joanne’s dog org or visit tions; however storms, “It looks at how have given a star role to Boris makes a friendly www.cancerfocusni. third party damage and cancer affects chil- my cat Sharon - a lot of appearance too. org. other events can still affect your supply. David Keys, Cus- tomer Relations Man- ASSESSMENT OF POLICE’S ager at NIE, says: “Our teams work 24 hours a day to ensure that if ROLE IN THE PAST there is a power cut, it is resolved as quickly as possible and we SHOULD BE BALANCED keep you updated with progress. We work NI Conservatives’ co-chair, Trevor Ringland, has called upon politicians and closely with the Met NIE crews out from first light restoring power supplies the media to offer a more balanced critique of the security forces’ contribution to office to get the latest preventing loss of life in Northern Ireland. weather information that we are now at the fuses away. Ensure electric He made his comments into chaos.” by both perceived sides paramilitaries would de- and when we receive forefront of electricity • Tell us – contact cookers and heaters following the publication “We should never in the Troubles. Some stroy the peace process.” a severe weather companies in managing us via our customer are switched off, but of a new book, by the Pat forget that the police simple statistics give the “Where police offic- warning we mobilise the process of restoring helpline 08457 643 leave a light on so you Finucane Centre, which and army saved many lie to claims that it sys- ers or soldiers acted staff and resources to supplies following a 643. In the event of know when the power makes fresh allegations thousands of lives during tematically colluded with outside the law, it was restore power as soon major incident.” a widespread loss of is restored about ‘collusion’. the Troubles. Their cour- loyalists. For instance disgraceful and their as possible. Through If your electricity electricity supplies you • Take care if using “This type of publica- age was one of the main approximately 50% of actions were an affront the years we’ve gained goes off: may make contact with candles or other naked tion will always attract factors which stopped a murders committed by to their colleagues. a lot of knowledge • Customers should a call handler, or more flames a great deal of media fully-fledged civil war loyalists were solved, Sometimes, though, al- responding to storm first check their house- likely receive NIE’s • If you are using a attention, but there is a from developing. 302 whereas only about 30% legations against the damage. This means hold trip switch and automated service generator be careful need for coverage to be RUC officers were mur- committed by republi- security forces seem to be where you can leave where you site it in balanced by a more thor- dered during the years cans resulted in success- a constant stream and the details of the premises case of carbon monox- ough look at the past”, between 1969 and 2001, ful prosecutions. They sources need to be fully affected by the inter- ide poisoning Trevor explained. “The while almost 70 commit- charged 8,000 loyalists challenged to expose ruption and receive • Listen to the ra- Northern Ireland Retired ted suicide and 10,000 with terrorist / serious any alternative agendas. a message providing dio for information Police Officers Associa- were injured. Policemen public order type offenc- It is deeply unfair not to the latest information bulletins tion is very clear that any and women were left to es, as a result of police balance these accounts, available. The auto- • Check on elderly or member of the force who deal with the aftermath investigations between given that police offic- mated system will pass vulnerable neighbours broke the law should be of horrific terrorist atroci- 1972-2001. It’s also a sad ers and soldiers were your details through to or relatives punished. Those few of- ties and have borne the fact that former police the people charged with our fault management For more information fenders damage the repu- mental and physical scars officers and soldiers are keeping the public safe. team about preparing for a tation of the vast majority ever since, while the per- the victims of the Trou- For the most part they did • Never approach power cut, to report a of officers, who showed petrators most often fled bles least likely to have an incredible job and it is broken lines or dam- power cut and to learn incredible bravery and the scene.” their full stories told now, because of their bravery aged poles and keep how NIE responds to prevented Northern Ire- “The RUC, in particu- because the things they that Northern Ireland to- children and animals storms visit nie.co.uk. land from descending lar, was at times attacked could tell about former day has a hopeful future.” Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 23 GROUND BREAKING PROCEDURES New Campaign PRODUCING RECORD RESULTS FOR Urges Used Car Northern Ireland COUPLES · 1 in 6 Couples in NI which mimics the experience infertility natural enzymes found Buyers To ‘Check It, problems in the human body · Pioneering new pro- relating directly to cedures showing 66% reproduction. This is - 70% success rate now offered as stand- Don’t Regret It’ · Major investment ard procedure for all in state of the art our patients at no extra Trading Standards Service is steering consumers in equipment cost. Primovision is Northern Ireland in the right direction when it comes to At the start of Na- time-lapse photogra- buying a used car. tional Infertility Week, phy which allows us to The drive is part of a worthy when the test · Check the car Origin Fertility Care, monitor and select the month-long campaign was passed. doesn’t have an out- Northern Ireland’s most developed embry- by the Trading Stand- · Check to see the standing credit agree- only Independent spe- os which has lifted our ards Institute, which full service history, to ment or logbook loan. cialist fertility clinic, success rates to 70%. launched at the start show what maintenance · Check the car and which is part of the This procedure is hav- of National Consumer has been done on the test drive it before you 3fivetwo Group, the ing a statistically sig- Week (NCW). car. See if the car has buy, to spot signs the largest healthcare pro- nificant effect on our The campaign is urg- been serviced regularly car isn’t what it seems. vider in the province, already high success ing people buying a and make sure that the · Get a check to show announced outstand- rates,” he revealed. used car to ‘check it, mileage on the paper- the condition of the car ing results from new “This is a pilot Steve Green, Head Embryologist don’t regret it’ by as- work makes sense. and to check for any procedures not avail- project so there is sessing whether it is · Check the registra- hidden dangers. You able anywhere else in currently no charge, safe, legal and that it is tion document, to avoid can also check that Ireland. he is getting from new “We are very excited we are the only clinic although this is likely what it seems. buying a stolen car. Ask repairs have been com- Steve Green, Head PICSI and Primovision about the results we providing them in to change in the near In Northern Ireland, to see the V5C registra- pleted properly if the Embryologist, says that (time lapse embryo have been achieving Ireland. future as the system used cars continue to tion document known car is a write off. the news for the one in monitoring) procedures throughout our initial “The PICSI proce- becomes more main- top the number of com- as the ‘logbook’. The Trading Stand- six couples or individ- and equipment have pilot project. These dure is used on both stream and we make plaints to Consumerline · Check if the car has ards Service (TSS) uals locally who expe- driven their success procedures are very Sperm Injection and substantial investment with over 1,000 people been written off. Cars has taken enforce- rience infertility is ex- results up to 66% and new on an international Embryo implantation to develop this service complaining about are written off when ment action against a cellent and the results 70% respectively. basis and we believe using Hyaluronan further.” problems with used insurance companies number of car dealers cars in the last year. decide they are too dear in Northern Ireland in Trading Standards has to repair or too dam- the last year, over con- issued the following aged after an accident. cerns about car clock- Fewer People Prepared To Get checklist to people buy- There are different ing, business practices ing used cars: categories of write off when selling cars, fi- · Check the MOT - it depending on the dam- nance and after-sale Behind Wheel “The Morning After” shows the car was road- age to the car. guarantees. The Northern Ireland Road Safety Monitor 2013 has been published recently. The report reveals that factors in causing injuries (95%) were aware of the reported the last time the the same lower limit is O’Neill Secures £200,000 the proportion of driv- or deaths on Northern Ire- ‘Hit Home’ campaign than question was asked in proposed for professional ers who would drive the land’s roads cited by 78%, ‘Just Because’ (73%) and 2012 (25%). drivers, this attracted a morning after consuming a 61% and 59% of respond- ‘Underneath’ (85%) televi- · Less than a quarter higher level of support for Fund For Fishing Vessels considerable amount of al- ents respectively. sion campaigns. Across all (23%) of drivers who using existing penalties cohol the night before, has The survey also gathered campaigns the majority drink alcohol said that (88%). For all other driv- The Assembly recently backed a motion brought forward fallen over the year from information on the level of of those aware were posi- they would normally ers a new lower limit of by Fisheries Minister Michelle O’Neill to provide a funding 30% to less than a quarter awareness and effective- tively influenced by them. drive the morning after an 50mg/100mls is proposed (23%). It also reports that ness of DOE road safety · Just over three-quarters evening on which they had and just less than nine out scheme for new satellite tracking devices for fishing vessels. the majority of people advertising campaigns. (77%) of respondents stat- been drinking four (for of every ten respondents Speaking in support fleet to help it adapt stalled, so that vessel (69%) oppose drivers tak- Individuals views were ed that they were aware women) or five (for men) (89%) support the use of of the motion for the to change, I decided it owners will not have ing one drink and driving. sought on a number of of at least one radio cam- or more alcoholic drinks, existing penalties for driv- scheme the Minister was appropriate that to pay any money up- However, after one drink road safety topics which paign. In 2012, the aware- this is lower than the level ers caught exceeding this. said: “As part of the re- the Department should front. All the applicants around one fifth (22%) included mobile phones, ness levels of the radio reported in 2012 (30%). · Under half (47%) of quirements of the Com- fund not just the first have to do is complete of drivers would still get drink driving, school bus- road safety campaigns was · A large majority motorists stated if driv- mon Fisheries Policy time installation for an application form and behind the wheel. Both of es, pedestrians and fatigue. 81%, which represents a (85%) of all respondents ing behind a bus that had fishing vessels over 12 smaller vessels but also arrange with the sup- these finding are similar to Key Points from the Sur- decline of four percent- surveyed agreed that the stopped to let people on plier for a suitable date last year. vey are: age points over the year police should be able to or off, they would usually metres in length must the replacement of the There continues to be · Respondents perceived and a more significant 10 stop people at random and pass the bus; this propor- fit satellite tracking older systems on larger to fit the equipment. overwhelming support the three most important percentage points from breathalyse them for driv- tion was reduced to 33% devices and transmit vessels. Funding has “We intend to launch for imposing the current factors in causing injuries the 87% awareness level ing under the influence of when considering school their position every two therefore been secured the Scheme on 1st De- set of drink drive penal- or deaths on our roads as recorded in 2011. alcohol which is similar children only. hours to the fisheries from Europe for 90% of cember and complete ties on those found ex- people speeding (78%), · Over four-fifths (81%) to the response in 2012 · Almost half (47%) of authorities. This has the cost, with 10% com- installation across the ceeding newly proposed carelessness on the roads of respondents that were (87%). all respondents stated that been a requirement for ing from DARD.” fleet by 31st March limits. For learner and (61%), and people driving aware of a radio advertis- · Drivers who drink they would never wear vessels over 15 metres The Minister added: 2014. I estimate that restricted drivers exceed- after drinking (59%). ing campaign stated that it alcohol said the top three high visibility items if out in length since 2005 and “The cost of the sys- the final amount of ing the new lower limit · The three principal influenced their behaviour penalties which would dis- for a walk. for smaller vessels since tems will be around grant awarded under of 20mg/100ml, 82% of causation factors recorded in a positive way in rela- courage them from driving · The majority (95%) 2011. Larger vessels £1,500 per vessel and the Scheme will be ap- respondents supported in police collision data tion to road safety. if over the legal limit were agreed or strongly agreed have been using such this includes reasonable proximately £200,000. imposing the current set for the actual number of · Over a third (36%) ‘that you might kill or seri- that pedestrians and equipment since 2006 installation costs and This assistance will be of penalties. Although people killed or seriously of motorists report us- ously injure someone else’ drivers have shared re- the same lower limit is injured in Northern Ireland ing a mobile phone while (76%), ‘being disquali- sponsibility to avoid road whilst smaller vessels a three year warranty. a valuable boost to our proposed for professional for 2012 were excessive driving, (5% hand held, fied for a minimum of 12 traffic collisions involving have yet to be equipped. Arrangements have also fishermen to assist them drivers, this attracted a speeding having regard to 28% hands free and 3% months’ (63%) and ‘that themselves. “In the context of been put in place to pay with the costs of com- higher level of support for conditions (12%), inatten- sometimes hand held or you might kill or seriously · Over seven in ten the provision of stra- the supplier directly plying with the Com- using existing penalties tion or attention diverted hands free). The majority injure yourself’ (62%). (72%) respondents stated tegic assistance to the once the system is in- mon Fisheries Policy.” (88%). For all other driv- (9%) and driver/rider of those who would use a · Drink driving (88%) that they never cycle; of ers, a new lower limit of impaired by drugs/alcohol mobile whilst driving were and drug driving (84%) those that do cycle, nearly 50mg/100mls is proposed (8%). aware of risks associated were the two most fre- half (48%) stated that they and just less than nine out · When respondents with this behaviour. quently cited circum- never wear a cycle helmet. of every ten respondents were asked to list the three · On the whole, drinking stances when respondents · Approaching one quar- (89%) support the use of most important influences and driving was opposed thought the police should ter of motorists (24%) existing penalties for driv- in creating an awareness by respondents of this have the power to seize a reported that over the past ers caught exceeding this. of road safety, 82% of re- survey with nearly seven vehicle. year there had been occa- Alongside this, the vast spondents stated that TV in ten (69%) stating that · The majority of re- sions when they have felt majority of respondents advertising was one of the it was not acceptable to spondents support impos- drowsy when they had considered drink driving most important factors. drive after one drink and ing the existing penalties been driving, this is simi- (88%) and drug driv- Just over a quarter of re- the vast majority (95%) for those who exceed the lar to the level reported in ing (84%) to be offences spondents rated news and stating it was not accept- proposed new lower blood 2009 (27%). where police should have documentaries on TV and able to drive after two alcohol limits. For learner · Six in ten (60%) re- the power to seize a Radio (26%), penalties for drinks. and restricted drivers spondents who reported vehicle. breaking the law (26%) · Just over a fifth of exceeding the new lower to feeling drowsy while Speeding, carelessness and a friend or relative drivers who drink alcohol limit of 20mg/100ml, 82% driving stated they wound on the roads, and drink- involved in a collision or (22%) would drive after of respondents supported down the window for cold ing and driving are still near miss (26%). having one drink and this imposing the current set air, this is similar to that considered the three main · More respondents is similar to the levels of penalties. Although reported in 2009 (56%). North Down Advertiser Page 24 plans & projects for 2014 What To Expect From An Planning Architect The creativity, attention to detail and professional advice your Dream of an architect can be invaluable to the success of any build project. From suggestions on project to ensure your best tect is unlikely to come how to make the best laid plans are turned into cheap but he or she should use of space and light, reality. be able to maximise your Home to fittings, materials and Any person practising investment, so will be Planning your home can be a tricky problem with various fixtures, the professional as an architect must be cost-effective in the long choices to choose from, whether you want to go for a input can give the smallest registered with the Archi- run. Also, if your budget traditional build, looking to build that eco-friendly home or of projects the wow factor. tects’ Registration Board is low, you may find that if you simply would like a unique home to stand out from the But architects don’t just (ARB). your architect will work at come up with the design; Word-of-mouth recom- an hourly rate. rest. Heres a breakdown of things you’ll need to consider. they can also manage parts mendation is a great way Ask to see examples First things first you match your dream control offices. or all of the build on your to find an architect. Oth- of their previous work need to have a rough home or not. An archi- Make sure you to behalf. An architect can erwise your local planning and if possible, arrange idea of the design of tect may offer different have an idea of where help you through the pit- department - or builder to visit finished projects your home. If you’re deals and offers but that you want to build and if falls of the planning proc- - should be able to recom- and talk to previous cli- building the home doesn’t always make there’s any land avail- ess, the minefield of build- mend reputable architects. ents. Choose the one who you’ve dreamed of for him the right person for able. It’s important to ing regulations, obtain Contact at least three listens to you, you feel at years then this part your build. make sure you’’ll be competitive quotes from firms that specialise in ease with and who you could be easy. Make You should be able happy with the grounds contractors, deal with the the type of work you want think will do the best job. sure to take notes of to get a rough estima- you have around you, builders, and even run the done - and ideally on the You need to be sure of every little detail for tion of the cost of you may want to extend period of house yours is. their creativity and ability when the plans are build. You may wish or look to own more Then meet with two or to get things done, as well drawn up. to consider making land in the future. three to discuss the project as your ability to work to- If you’ve decided enquires with your lo- Remember to make and get some quotes and gether. Good architecture ask about their fee struc- needs collaboration and to build but your not cal builders to confirm sure your plans can be ture. Employing an archi- dialogue. sure on the design then your expenses. Getting fulfilled from the site have a look on the web an idea of how long you end up choosing. maybe even call into the build will take for Have a glance at your your local architect to completion will be es- potential neighbours see what you can come sential in whether you house designs as they up with. Ask friends decide to sell your cur- may dictate whether or and family who’ve pre- rent home or decide to not your house is ap- viously designed their rent a home whilst the proved or not. home. building takes place. The size of the house When you’ve got The importance of should also be consid- an idea you’ll be best an architect being on ered for your future served to get an archi- board early could speed plans, such as will your tect on board as soon as up the process of your home become a family possible. Have a look at build time and elimi- home at any point and their previous designs nate the little details how whether this will and ask yourself if their that could be turned be your last before you create visions could down by the planning settle down. plans & projects for 2014 North Down Advertiser Page 25

Remodelling AiThe processr S of air-sourceou heatingrce revolves aroundHe thea pumpting absorbing heat fromPum outside. ps The heat absorbed can only circulate heat to energy sources. If your undertaking a new-build Remember that plan- then be used to supply your home but not your current heating system then it could be a vi- ning permission will be the Exterior hot water, radiators or water supply. is inefficient or your able option to consider. necessary. even heat your under- Positives to the air- floor heating system. source heating pumps The system can work in is the potential savings of Your House cooler temperatures as on your fuel bills whilst When deciding on what to remodel on the exterior of your well meaning its a viable also lowering your home, take into consideration the financial costs associated option for most home- houses carbon emissions with every single item you remodel. owners. The heat from ensuring you do your Remodelling the exte- the finances involved and a quote on re-roofing the air absorbed is con- bit for the environment. rior of a home does not implement the items you your home. Updating verted to a fluid which The governments re- have to cost a small for- can without having to your roof provides visual passes through a com- newable energy scheme tune. A coat of fresh paint obtain financing. appeal to your home as pressor. Its temperature could provide you with immediately changes the Consider a different well as protection from increases which is trans- an added income. The exterior of your home. colour scheme for the ex- the elements. Decide be- ferred to either the heat- systems are famed for Walk around the exterior of your home. Per- tween a shingled roof and ing and hot water circuit. their easy maintenance terior of your home and haps your home currently a metal roof. The two main types of and not forgetting the systems used are an air- most importantly the pretend you do not live has a colour scheme of Purchase your painting to-water system or an heat they’ll provide to there. This allows you white and green. Change materials from your lo- air to air system. An air your home. The biggest to see your home from a this for a dramatic effect. cal hardware store. Make to water system works negative is the price with stranger’s point of view. Consider possibly a tan sure that you purchase well in lower tempera- £6000-10000 being the Write down the items you as your base colour and a exterior home paint and tures proving heat for estimated cost whilst need to remodel to give red wine for your accent not interior. Typically, your under-floor heating the running costs vary. the exterior of your home colour. a home’s colour theme systems and radiators Its worth noting that the curb appeal. Once you Call roofing profession- consists of two or three where as an air-to-air government may provide have your list, consider als in your area to obtain colours. system will generally grants for renewable Design – Build – Live That is the ethos of Design Space Limited. When we decided to form our company, we wanted to offer our clients something more than just a generic building experience which was common place in the past. We want our clients to project control options design consultant. as accurately as possible. mount importance to our feel as much a part of and a higher level of Every project is priced At Design Space, we orginasation. the construction proc- overall professionalism by a qualified quantity pride ourselves on the If you would like to ess as we do. We value and service, without surveyor. This way we high level of profes- find out more about all their input at all stage having to increase the ensure that the client re- sionalism that we offer the services we offer, or of the project, as we contract price. The ad- ceives the most accurate our clients. The design if you are interested in believe this ensures the ditional services we of- price. This also gives the space team are a group what we can offer you, client gets exactly what fer our clients include a client a bench mark on of highly skilled, moti- then give us a call on they had envisioned and designated site foreman, which to compare other vated and professional 078 1484 8091 or 077 expected. designated project man- prices and ultimately individuals. Health and 2044 7890. You can also To enable us to achieve ager/client liaison of- assure the client that we safety and site cleanli- drop us an email at de this, we offer more ficer and architectural have priced their project ness are also of para- [email protected]. North Down Advertiser Page 26 plans & projects for 2014 could Solar WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR Panels be HOME FOR SELLING Looking for ways to spruce up your home without putting yourself in the poorhouse? Whether you’re get- looks clean and reason- with a den, the only rugs are in good shape sive, but nice looking, ting ready to sell your ably updated. reason the den can’t be and are natural colours. ceiling fixtures these for you and home or want to spiff Buff up the bath. If considered a bedroom If your carpet is show- days. If you have a ceil- it up inexpensively for your tub and shower are may be because it ing serious wear, cover ing fan and light, you your own enjoyment, looking dingy, consider doesn’t have a closet. If it with an inexpensive, can also buy replace- we’ve got some good re-grouting the tile and you add as closet to that strategically placed area ment fan blades to up- strategies for you to replacing any chipped room, you’ve now got rug. date the fixture’s look. your home? consider. tiles. These one-piece a four bedroom house. Let there be light. Reframe your entry. Make your kitchen re- units may require pro- That adds a lot of value. If you have boring Do you have a flimsy Consider installing solar panel and do your bit for the ally cook. The kitchen fessional installation Look underfoot. Car- recessed lights in little knob on your main environment,whilst making running your home that much is still considered the but can still be cheaper peting is another detail your dining and liv- entry door? If so, spring easier even potentially earning money from the government heart of the home. than paying to re-tile that can quickly update ing rooms, consider for a substantial-look- as they pay for your excess energy. Potential home buyers walls and refinish a a home and make it replacing one of the ing handle-and-lock set. There are currently your electric bills whilst earn a fixed sum for every make a beeline for this worn tub. look cleaner. A profes- room’s lights with an Also, if you’re stuck two types of solar panel maintaining self sufficient kilowatt your panels gen- room when they first Add a room in a week sional carpet cleaning is eye-catching chande- with a basic steel front for you to choose from. energy source. erate whether you use the view a home for sale, so or less. If you have a an inexpensive invest- lier. Home stores offer a door, paint it for more There is the solar pho- The government are al- energy directly or export it make sure your kitchen three bedroom house ment, especially if your wide range of inexpen- eye appeal. tovoltaics (PV) which ways encouraging people to the power grid. turns the suns energy into to switch over to renew- The export tariff earns an affordable electric- able energy sources with you an additional income ity source whereas solar different schemes offered for every kilowatt hour of Tradespeople: Who Does What? thermal collectors convert such as the tariff feed in., electricity you sell back to their energy into hot water where the government pay the grid. If for any reason If you’re thinking of taking time off to manage your own project, the best bit of background research is although they tend to fare you. Theres two types of you can’t generate enough to learn as much about the work of the specialist trades as possible. better during the warmer tariffs currently available: electricity then you can You need to under- frame, the shell of the the installation of facto- tiles or similar.As a rule are some of the most months. Just a few of the the Generation Tariff and still buy from your current stand the methods and building will be put up ry-made roof trusses or of thumb, the roofer highly-paid and difficult benefits of installing solar the Export Tariff. With provider. Meaning you’ll materials used by each first and then the brickie constructing a hand-cut will be responsible for to find tradespeople. energy are the savings on the generation tariff you never be without power trade so that you can will clad the exterior roof-frame. They will everything on the roof Plumbers but your certain to save pick up any problems at with brick. work with the bricklay- (except chimneys), from Plumbers will lay the money. an early stage. Here’s a Carpenters er on the installation of the outer surface of the pipework for your wa- The costs of the solar basic guide to who does As timber frame the doors and windows. roof trusses outwards. ter supply and install PV system costs ranges what on site. building begins to gain Roofers Electricians central heating systems. from £5,500-£9,500 Builders ground on brick, the Once the timber roof Leave anything with They will connect up whereas the solar wa- On the majority of UK role of a good carpenter structure is complete, wires to the electrician, the sanitaryware that ter heating systems are homes, the brickie fol- is becoming more im- the roofer will be re- as all the work should you supply but don’t around £4,800. Whether lows hot on the heels of portant on many sites. sponsible for covering be certified and this can normally get involved your looking to install the groundworks team. The carpentry team will the surface with the only be done by a quali- in building wet rooms solar panels at home or for If you’re building with be responsible for the appropriate membrane fied electrician. Timing or the constructional commercial theres many a SIPs (Structural Insu- building of suspended and battening ready for of the electrical work side of bathroom or reason to make the switch. lated Panels) or a timber timber floors and either the fitting of the roof can be crucial as these kitchens A quick and easy Guide on how to extend your home in the new year Deciding your budget is the first step! Working out the cost of working out the cost of ex- overruns. money you will normally Speak to your local au- cause they can do the job a house extension or loft tending your house, most Consider how you are have the choice of either thority to see if you need immediately. conversion yourself is dif- advisers suggest building going to cover the cost of increasing your mortgage planning permission for Bear in mind that good ficult because each one is in a contingency of, say extending your house. If or taking out a personal your extension or conver- builders are likely to be different. When you are 10%, in case your budget you need to borrow the loan. sion and whether it will busy so be realistic about need building regulation time scales. approval. If your builder does not If you do need planning supply a contract, you permission, decide whether could draw up one yourself you are going to employ setting out the work to be an architect or surveyor to undertaken in as much de- draw up your plans, find tail as you can, with time a builder and oversee the scales etc. to be signed by project, or whether you both you and your builder. just want a professional to If your extension needs provide the plans and in- approval under building tend to do the rest yourself. regulations, remember to If you are appointing keep the final certificate the builders yourself, get to confirm that the work is three itemised quotes in okay so you have it avail- writing – not estimates. able for future purchasers Don’t choose traders be- of your property. plans & projects for 2014 North Down Advertiser Page 27 how to Boost the Value of Your Home in 2014 Improving and renovating your home is an easy way to potentially increase its value particularly helpful in an ever competitive market. Have a run through of the best improve- either too big or small. Cleaning your floors with a new varnish fin- to save money on ener- your home and pick out ment in terms of value Having an over-sized is another option which ish of your choice. gy bills whilst environ- the rooms which could for your money as they wardrobe will only is both inexpensive and Converting under- mentalists will appreci- do with a fresh coat of both are fairly cheap to serve to take up space will leave your floors used spaces or prepar- ate your greener home. paint uncover any prob- buy yet give that extra and act as point of dis- looking amazing. There ing them for conver- General repairs to any lems with your walls. glow from your smooth traction from the rest of are a few ways in which sions can show-case of those little problems Adding a new coat of walls. the room whilst a ward- you can achieve a new- potential for expansion that never really an- paint can really brighten Deal with clutter, your robe thats too small may floor effect but at heck for buyers. Convert noyed you enough to fix up a room giving it a rooms will look and feel show-case a lacking of of a lot less than pur- your attic or at least them, now is the time to new lease of life. Whilst much smaller if clut- storage space. Clearing chasing new flooring. look to get a flooring do so. Remember theses your walls may look tered to both you and out old clothes and toys With a number of carpet down to show-case the problems could be more fine to you, that lit- the all important buyers. which are no longer cleaners proving effec- space your home has off-putting to others tle hole or patch could Take anything unneces- used could prove ben- tive to clean up tricky ready to expand in. Cut- than they are to you. put off buyers who are sary out of each room. eficial in keeping your stains you could choose ting the energy output These tips will help fearful of other unseen That desk which is no rooms in order whilst to polish the floors or of your home has never boost your homes value problems as a result. longer used and replace you could also donate even consider sanding been more worthwhile and hopefully encour- Paint and fillers are one wardrobes if they’re them to a good cause. your wooden floors with everyone looking age a sale. Eliminating Those cold Draughts This Winter Consider insulating your house this Christmas to wipe out that nasty draught brushing across your shoulder. There are a range of ever insulated. After one of two types:- either insulation is normally or with a stud wall. options on offer for you you determine whether a stud/cavity wall or a made up of of three ma- The cost of installing to choose from, with or not your home needs solid wall. terials:- mineral wool, internal wall insulation insulation available for to be insulated, you Installing insulation in foamed insulator or is around £5,500- 8,500 both your walls and should try and determine a cavity wall could save beads and granules. with and estimated sav- roof/loft. the type of walls your you up to £140 a year Solid walls can be in- ings potential of £460 You should start by home is made up of. The with an estimated instal- sulated both internally per year whilst an ex- finding out when your wall type will determine lation cost of around and externally. To internal wall price ranges home was last insulated the particular type of £500. The savings sulate an internal wall, from £9,400 to £13,000 or, if its an older build, insulation you’ll need to potential is significant you have a choice of with and savings poten- whether or not it was install. The wall will be over the long-term. The rigid insulation boards tial of £490 every year. Replacing Old Boilers Replacing your boiler will save you money in the long-term, with 55% of your total spending on energy bills each year spent on running your boiler alone. There really is good energy and, as result, The costs of replacing uk been lost through the reason to check if it’s costing you more money your boiler is around There are a number of flue. Condensing boilers time for a replacement. to heat your home. De- £2,300. The Government advantages a new boiler heat exchanger recovers The average life ex- pending on your boilers are currently running has over an older model, heat and sends cooler pectancy of an efficient current efficiency rating, a boiler replacement such as most newer air up the flue, when the boiler is around 10-15 you could save up to scheme based on differ- models are now con- water cools to a vapour years. If yours is older £310 a year if you re- ent household income densing boilers, which the gases condenses out than this, you may find place it with a brand new levels for more informa- retains heat that would resulting in energy being your boiler is wasting energy efficient boiler. tion visit www.nihe.gov. in the past would have recovered. micro Wind turbines Micro-wind turbines could be a viable energy source for your home with the inevitable savings over a long- term period making them a sound investment. Wind turbines catch the wind driving the turbine, which in turn generates electricity. A micro-wind turbine doesn’t need as much space as a normal sized turbine making it suitable for both urban and rural areas. There are two different types of micro-turbine, a building mounted turbine which can be installed on roofs, which are usually 1kW to 2kW in size. The second type are pole- mounted which are free standing and usually come in 5kW or 6kW in size. The turbines ranges in price the roof-mounted system costs £2000 a 2.5 kW pole-mounted system costs £15,000 whilst a 6kW pole-mounted system is the most expensive at £22,500 exclusive of maintenance fees. With the turbine systems you can store excess electricity in batteries for those non-windy days. Turbines will cut your electricity bills, with the potential savings paying off the money you spent on installation. With turbines, you’ll also cut your pollution ensuring you do your bit for the environment. For more information visit your local council office. North Down Advertiser Page 28 Issue 92 - December 2013 New box scheme Help the health service to help you Health Minister Edwin Poots has urged people to think carefully about how sees boost to they use the health service should they or their family become unwell or have an accident. The Minister was with the GP. If people minor ailments, pain or heard about inap- speaking ahead of choose well, they will relief, skin complaints, propriate use of the city recycling the launch of Choose get the right services coughs and colds, over emergency services – Belfast residents are helping to boost the city’s recycling rates by embracing the Well, a public informa- for them and will help the counter or on the the person who dialled new kerbside box scheme, which has just completed its roll out. tion campaign aimed the health service to telephone.” 999 for an emergency at raising awareness help them. The Minister contin- ambulance because Councillor Steven of the range of health “We know through ued: “Choose Well is they wanted their Corr, chairman of services available to research that people also about helping the prescription collected Belfast City Council’s treat everything from a are using their GPs staff in our emergency from their GP Practice Health and Environ- common cold to a ma- when self care or a services concentrate on or the person who at- mental Services Com- jor emergency. trip to the pharmacy the people who are the tended ED because mittee, said he was The launch was held will do. For example, most sick and injured. their false nails were encouraged by the recently at the Grove around 40% of 16-24 It’s about making it hurting them. If you response to the new Wellbeing Centre, Bel- year olds have visited clear to the public that use the health service scheme which has de- fast. The Minister said: their GP in the event emergency and 999 wisely, it means you livered some positive “The Choose Well of a cold. Because the services are for life can be seen and treated results. campaign aims to help number of genuine threatening and seri- more quickly and by In the first few weeks people gain a better urgent and emergency ous conditions. Minor the most appropriate of the scheme set- understanding of the cases rises during healthcare issues can person. out rates have almost choices available and winter hospitals, GPs be dealt with at home, “If you’re in doubt doubled with 51% of allow them to get ac- and community nurs- by a pharmacist or by about which service is households putting their cess to the right serv- ing teams all have their a GP. We need the pub- most appropriate for boxes out every week, ices quickly, whether hands full. Very often lic to help emergency you, more information and an additional 185 it is checking online, people do not need to services to treat emer- is available on http:// tonnes of food waste a trip to the pharmacy see a GP; pharmacists gency cases. www.nidirect.gov.uk/ was collected in Octo- or an appointment can advise patients on “We have all read choosewell.” ber compared to just 10 tonnes per month prior to the new scheme roll out. Efficient Livestock Farming Councillor Corr said: “While there have been a few hiccups with the Can Help Reduce Our new scheme settling in, and the changeover to Food’s Carbon Footprint new black bin collection arrangements, overall Livestock farming has the potential to increase profitability whilst at the same the scheme has been time reducing its carbon footprint, Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill has said. very positively received The Minister was FAO’s recent report the emissions intensity farm level. and we’re very pleased responding to a Report highlights the potential of food production. “The FAO have high- with the results to date. by the United Nation’s for livestock farming to “It is encouraging to lighted the need for “Ideally we’d like to Food and Agriculture reduce its carbon foot- note that such an influ- farmer training and sci- see every house that is Organisation (FAO), print across the world ential Body as the FAO entific research to set a part of the new scheme, entitled ‘Tackling Cli- through widespread has set a direction of pathway towards lower fully utilising their mate Change through adoption of existing travel that mirrors our emissions intensity in increased recycling ca- Livestock: A global as- practices. own efforts through the food production and I pacity. Recyclables and sessment of emissions “The FAO clearly links Greenhouse Gas Imple- am pleased that these food waste are collected and mitigation opportu- farm profitability and the mentation Partnership are areas in which my every week which gives Cllr Steven Corr, chairman of the council’s Health and Environmental nities’, which estimates reduction of carbon in- and a number of the department and industry people the opportu- Services Committee, speaks to a householder about the new the contribution of tensity of food products key initiatives identified partners have already nity to take part in the recycling box scheme which has just completed its roll out. farmed animals to global through efficient use in this Report have al- been very active. The scheme. warming and outlines of resources and this is ready been implemented report also encourages “Our staff are here to recycling advisors on in making this scheme For more information the sector’s ability to to be welcomed. Every throughout the north, the continuation of our help and if anyone has 0800 032 8100 or visit a huge success and I about the new recycling help tackle the problem. farming system, regard- particularly the focus work to identify the ex- any questions about our website. would encourage them scheme visit www. Commenting on less of scale or region, on campaigns to raise tent to which our natural the new scheme, they “I’d like to thank resi- to keep up the good belfastcity.gov.uk/ the Report, Michelle can make vital efficien- awareness of Green- farming systems can act can speak to one of our dents for their efforts work.” recycling O’Neill said: “The cies which will lower house Gases (GHGs) at as a carbon sink.” Gardening Found to Bus & Bike Travelling in Harmony Campaign Bus drivers and cyclists are set to benefit from a new Boost Lifespan campaign which will provide guidance on sharing the road Gardening isn’t just a relaxing pastime. New research has found it can cut the risk of heart attack and space safely. stroke by nearly one-third in people 60 and older. A joint initiative with travel safely on the road ensure they are all aware The findings, pub- ticularly important for years. At the start of the and physical exams to During study, 476 Translink, Sustrans and together. of the needs of those lished online in the older adults, because study, the seniors took check on blood fats, of the participants had Travelwise NI, Trans- Speaking during the with whom they share British Journal of Sports individuals in this age part in a health check, blood sugars, and other their first heart attack port Minister Danny recent launch Danny the road space.” Medicine, are the lat- group tend, compared which included infor- factors linked to heart and 383 died. The high- Kennedy launched the Kennedy said: “It is As well as the new est to weigh in on the to other age groups, mation on lifestyle, such attack and stroke. est level of daily physi- ‘Bus and Bike Trav- important as numbers guide, National Stand- health benefits of low- to spend a relatively as diet, smoking, and The results showed cal activity was associ- elling in Harmony’ of cyclists on our roads ard Cycle Training has impact exercise and greater proportion of alcohol intake, and how those who had a gener- ated with a 27 percent campaign at Laganside continue to increase that been given to bus driver longevity. Research- their active day per- physically active they ally active daily life lower risk of a heart Buscentre in Belfast fol- their safety as well as instructors and all 2000 ers from the Swedish forming [routine activi- were. had a much lower risk attack or stroke and a lowing a media event on the safety of other road bus drivers will com- Ravenhill Road show- users is given the high- plete a training module School of Sport and ties] as they often find They were asked how profile for cardiovascu- 30 percent reduced risk casing the key safety est priority. this year highlighting Health Sciences and the it difficult to achieve often they engaged a lar problems, regardless of death from all causes, challenges. “I very much welcome best practice of sharing Karolinska Institutet in recommended exercise range of daily activi- of how much formal compared with the low- The campaign aims to this Bus and Bike Trav- the road with cyclists to est level. Stockholm found that intensity levels,” the re- ties — gardening, car exercise they took. They provide each group with elling in Harmony Cam- support this campaign. gardening — and simi- searchers concluded. maintenance and black- also tended to have The findings suggest a better understanding of paign to raise awareness The new Travelling in lar — activities as good The findings are based berry picking — over smaller waists, lower prolonged sitting drives each other’s needs such among both cyclists Harmony Guides will as more formal exercise on analysis of the medi- the previous 12 months, levels of potentially down metabolism and as giving sufficient road and bus drivers of their be available in bus and regimens because they cal records of nearly and whether they par- harmful blood fats and negatively effects hor- space, potential blind individual responsibili- train stations, cycling decrease total sedentary 4,000 60-year-olds in ticipated in any formal other risk factors.The monal activity — rais- spots and the importance ties. The new Travelling retailers, online at http:// time, particularly among Stockholm, whose car- exercise. Their cardio- same was true of seniors ing cardiovascular risks of making the appropri- in Harmony Leaflet sets www.translink.co.uk and less-active seniors. diovascular health was vascular health was as- who engaged in a lot of — while physical activ- ate adjustments while out clear guidance and Sustrans website http:// “Our findings are par- tracked for about 12 sessed through lab tests formal exercise. ity is beneficial for both. travelling to ensure they common-sense advice to www.sustrans.org.uk Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 29 ash dieback Poots announces chair for Almost three quarters of people quizzed in Northern Ireland have heard of ash dieback, compared to just over half Child Exploitation inquiry in the UK Kathleen Marshall will lead the independent inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation, Health Minister Just over half (54 per cent) Edwin Poots recently told the Assembly. of those taking part in a In an oral statement, the Mrs Marshall has been provided has been analysed ment to the Assembly, Mrs extent, and take effective UK-wide survey have heard Minister said: “I am now given the opportunity to by the Inquiry Board and Marshall said: “I am very steps to tackle it. of ash dieback one year on pleased to be in the posi- shape and agree the final Team. An Inquiry web- pleased to have been ap- “During my career as a from the discovery of the tion where I can advise that Terms of Reference for the site will be established to pointed to lead the inquiry lawyer specialising in chil- disease in our woods. I have decided to appoint Inquiry. This process was facilitate the sharing of into child sexual exploita- dren’s issues, I have had a A YouGov survey com- Mrs Marshall to lead the only completed yesterday information throughout the tion in Northern Ireland. particular focus on child missioned for the Woodland Inquiry. and, as such this is the earli- process. And, of course, any It is a distressing subject, protection. My five years Trust asked the public “Mrs Marshall has a long est opportunity to share this evidence which emerges which recent events have as Scotland’s first Com- whether their awareness of distinguished career and has information with you.” throughout the process that shown to be of great public missioner for Children and threats to trees and woods published widely. She was The Minister added: “I indicates that immediate concern. Some excellent Young People reinforced from pests and diseases had the former Commissioner have agreed with the In- action is needed to protect work has already been my commitment to listen- increased over the past 12 for Children and Young quiry Chair that information children in the here and done in Northern Ireland ing to what young people months, with half (50 per People in Scotland and she will be made available at now will be made avail- to identify and address the themselves have to say as cent) responding that their was part of the team which appropriate junctures. For able to the appropriate problem, but there is much an essential part of under- awareness had not changed. undertook the Youth Justice example, at the end of the authorities.” that we still do not know, standing the world they live However, two-thirds (66 Review in Northern Ireland. call for evidence strand of Speaking after the Min- and need to know if we are in and the situations they per cent) did agree that tree “As is normal practice, the Inquiry, when evidence ister delivered his state- to understand its nature and face.” disease and pests were serious issues that need to be tackled. Poots Urges Support To Alzheimer’s Those quizzed in Northern Ash dieback, lesions on the bark, by Mike Ireland generally fared bet- Ryder ter, with 72 per cent having Healthcare Workers Directly breakthrough heard of ash dieback and they didn’t know. However, cases. 73 per cent agreeing to the half of those in the UK and Since the discovery of ash Affected By Typhoon Haiyan ‘turning point’ importance of tackling tree encouragingly 70 per cent dieback in England last au- The discovery of the first chemical pests and diseases. While in Northern Ireland recog- tumn the disease has spread Health Minister Edwin Poots has urged everyone in the HSC the local response is more nised that planting a wider quickly throughout the UK, to prevent the death of brain tissue in optimistic, the Trust recog- variety of native trees would with now over 600 cases in and independent health care sectors to proactively support a neurodegenerative disease has been nises that continued effort help protect our trees and total. In Northern Ireland, co-workers who have families directly affected by Typhoon hailed as the “turning point” in the fight is needed to raise awareness woodland. 90 premises have been Haiyan. against Alzheimer’s disease. throughout the UK. The Woodland Trust is confirmed positive – 87 of The Minister has ap- people affected by this bers affected by this The charity is now high- tackling ash dieback and More work is needed to said: “This finding, I sus- these are recently planted pealed to the sector to devastating storm. natural disaster so far lighting a number of ways other diseases by ensuring sites, with three in nursery develop a drug that could be pect, will be judged by his- help provide any practi- “We have a duty of away must be very that members of the public that from 2014 all trees it environments. taken by patients. tory as a turning point in the can help tackle ash dieback plants and provides will Find out more on the cal assistance such as care to provide support distressing. I know But scientists say a result- search for medicines to con- – and the many other threats have a detailed provenance Woodland Trust’s website counselling or extraor- and practical assist- that many people from ing medicine could treat trol and prevent Alzheimer’s to our trees and woods. and be UK or Ireland- www.loveitorloseit.org.uk dinary leave that may be ance to the Philippino Northern Ireland will Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, disease.” The Trust also asked the sourced and grown. It is Members of the public are required. community in NI who want to show their sup- Huntington’s and other He told the BBC a cure for public whether they knew also working with partners asked to report any signs of The Minister said: “I have helped sustain port to the people of the diseases. Alzheimer’s was not immi- of ways to help protect including the Forestry Com- ash dieback and other tree am deeply saddened by healthcare here over the Philippines and I would In tests on mice, the nent but: “I’m very excited, trees and woodland against mission and National Trust disease to the Department the loss of life and ex- last number of years. urge all staff within the Medical Research Council it’s the first proof in any the risks of tree disease on the ‘ObservaTREE’ of Agriculture and Rural tensive damage caused Without their commit- HSC and independent showed all brain cell death living animal that you can and pests. Thirty-three per project to make use of Development. by Typhoon Haiyan in ment and dedication sectors to proactively from prion disease could be delay neurodegeneration. cent of the UK respondents citizen scientists across the Telephone 0300 200 7847 the Philippines. Our many services would not support their co-workers prevented. “The world won’t change and 14 per cent of Northern country to help identify and or email afib.planthealth@ thoughts and prayers go have been sustainable. who are directly affected Prof Roger Morris, from tomorrow, but this is a land- Ireland respondents stated verify potential tree disease dardni.gov.uk out to the millions of “To have family mem- at this time.” King’s College London, mark study.” North Down Advertiser Page 30 Issue 92 - December 2013 Minister marks World Ministers announce roll Mental Health Day Advice and guidance is available to help pupils deal with out of Community Family a range of issues that may affect their emotional health and wellbeing. Speaking on World young people and pro- “Counselling makes an Support Programme Mental Health Day, vide help and information important contribution Education Minister John on where they can turn to supporting a young Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry recently announced the roll out of the O’Dowd said: to for advice on dealing person’s emotional health Community Family Support Programme to 720 families across Northern Ireland with Junior Ministers “World Mental Health with issues such as bully- and helps tackle barri- Day is significant in raising and child abuse.” ers to learning which Jennifer McCann and Jonathan Bell. ing public awareness of Mental health issues can result from personal The Community Fam- cessfully piloted earlier family support workers to the inspiration, motiva- DEL will be working in mental health problems. can affect anyone of any trauma; stress; bullying ily Support Programme this year. It is one of six address the health, social, tion and confidence to partnership and collabo- It is also an opportunity age. Experience indi- and child abuse. Pupils (CFSP) is an initiative designated Delivering economic, educational, have a new start and be ratively with a network to focus on prevention cates that if children and experiencing stress or from the Department for Social Change Signature employment and train- positive role models for of statutory, voluntary by building coping skills young people are feeling emotional problems may Employment and Learn- Programmes. ing issues that impact other young people in the and community organisa- in children and young stressed or worried they find it difficult to reach ing’s (DEL) ‘Pathways Minister Farry said: on their daily lives. The community.” tions to support families people. may not do as well in their potential and a to Success’ Strategy “As part of delivering programme will be deliv- The programme will with specific needs to “My Department has school. listening ear can make a designed to support par- the social change frame- ered by support organisa- also provide one to one access a range of services a role to play in sup- In addition to schools’ great difference.” ents and prevent younger work, I can announce the tions in the heart of the employment advice and specialist provision porting young people as pastoral care pro- Concluding, the Minis- family members from up-scaling of the Com- community and a family and mentoring to fam- to get families the help they progress through grammes, the Depart- ter said: “The title of the falling into the Not in munity Family Support learning component will ily members and supports they need at the earliest the education system and ment of Education ‘iMatter’ programme puts Employment, Education Programme to support be an integral part of them with job search, CV intervention. that is why we produced also provides access to a particular emphasis on or Training (NEET) cat- 720 families in the com- the provision aimed at writing, interview tech- For more information the ‘iMatter’ programme professional counselling each of us as individuals egory. A key focus of the munity across Northern enhancing parenting and niques and presentation and contact details for which contributes to the support that is available and the content focuses building of resilient emo- for young people in post- on the importance of hav- initiative is also to assist Ireland.” family life skills.” skills. Family members the Community Family tional health and wellbe- primary school during ing a balanced life that is NEET young people to “During the 26-week “This programme will also be able to com- Support Programme visit ing among pupils. The difficult and vulnerable centred on being happy, re-engage with education, programme, families will will provide disen- pleted short accredited http://www.nidirect.gov. resources focus on topics periods in their lives. whole and emotionally training or employment. receive assistance from gaged young people training courses and work uk/community-family- which are of concern to The Minister said: healthy.” The programme was suc- professionally qualified and their families with placements. support-programme. Mondays Most Popular Rights Day to Quit Smoking of all Smokers are most likely to think about kicking their habit on Mondays, according to a new study, and this finding may help should be boost the effectiveness of anti-smoking campaigns. For the study, the inves- highest on Mondays. The in English for information Diego State University. dependent on the day of days may be an effective tigators monitored online number of searches on about quitting smoking “Popular belief has been the week.” and easy-to-implement respected searches about quitting Mondays was 25 percent were 11 percent higher that the decision to quit Study co-author Joanna campaign.” Justice Minister David Ford has met smoking that were con- higher than the combined than on Wednesdays, 67 smoking is unpredictable Cohen, director of the Further research is need- with business representatives to discuss ducted in English, French, average number of search- percent higher than on or even chaotic,” Ayers Johns Hopkins Institute ed to learn more about the Chinese, Portuguese, Rus- es on Tuesday through Fridays and 145 percent said in a university news for Global Tobacco Con- reasons for these findings the impact of the recent disorder on sian and Spanish world- Sunday. higher than on Saturdays, release. “By taking a trol, suggested that “cam- and how they could help trade in Belfast. wide between 2008 and This pattern was consist- the results showed. bird’s-eye view of Google paigns for people to quit boost quit rates, Ayers During the meeting with the NI Independent Retail Trade 2012. ent across all six languag- These findings may lead searches, however, we find may benefit from shifting said, but the immediate Association, the Belfast Chamber of Trade and Commerce The results showed that es, according to the study, to changes in the way anything but chaos. In- to weekly cues. We know message for smokers is and Pubs of Ulster, the Minister said that while he recognised people searched about which was published Oct. health officials and provid- stead, Google search data it takes smokers many straightforward: “If you’re the right of people to protest peacefully, others, including quitting smoking more of- 28 in the journal JAMA ers design anti-smoking reveals interest in quitting quit attempts before they a smoker, just remember: businesses and the police, also have rights which should be ten early in the week, with Internal Medicine. programs, said study lead is part of a larger collec- succeed, so prompting Quit this Monday. Every- respected. the number of searches On Mondays, searches author John Ayers, of San tive pattern of behavior them to try again on Mon- one else is doing it.” David Ford said: “During our discussions today it was made clear to me that businesses throughout Belfast have been severely impacted due to recent disorder in A rgentine scientists tap the city. I understand their concerns. Businesses are the O ’Neill discusses lifeblood of a vibrant city and they have had to operate in very difficult trading conditions over a sustained period. “While I recognise the right of people to protest peacefully, cow burps for natural gas in my mind, I am clear that businesses also have the right to rgentine sci- known as burps, or “erup- native,” he told Reuters. trade peacefully just as police officers, who are delivering fishing opportunities entists have tos” in Spanish - are then Each head of cattle community policing, have the right to carry out their role free found a way to processed to separate emits between 250 and from attack. A “There is no justification for the violence we have transform the gas created methane from other gases 300 litres of pure methane by the bovine digestive such as carbon dioxide. a day, enough energy to witnessed.” for 2014 system into fuel, an in- Methane is the main keep a refrigerator run- David Ford continued: “Belfast has seen many dark times Fisheries Minister Michelle O’Neill has met with fishing novation that could curb component of natural gas, ning for 24 hours. and we should all be proud to see the city it has become in industry representatives at Parliament Buildings, Stormont greenhouse gases that used to fuel everything Argentina is one of recent years. It is beautiful, vibrant, diverse and has been cause global warming. from cars to power plants. the world’s top beef ex- identified as a must see destination in tourist guides. Indeed, to discuss priorities ahead of the December Fisheries Council Using a system of “Once you get it com- porters, with around 51 during the World Police and Fire Games, I met people who negotiations on fishing opportunities for 2014. valves and pumps, the pressed, it’s the same as million heads of cattle. loved their time in Northern Ireland and were full of praise for The December Fisher- the proposal has been I expect that the Council experimental technique having natural gas,” said Gases emitted from those the city of Belfast and its people. “ ies Council is one of the held back pending up-to will oppose effort cuts developed by Argentina’s Guillermo Berra, head of animals account for 30 Turning to the future, David Ford said: “There will be no most significant events date scientific advice. as it did last year and I National Institute of Ag- INTA’s animal physiology percent of the country’s easy or simple solution to the issues we face. If Northern Ire- of the year for the local However, I expect the will fully support that ricultural Technology group. total greenhouse gas emis- land is to move forward we need to work together as a society fishing industry as it de- initial quota proposal position. A halt in ef- (INTA) channels the di- “As an energy source it sions, according to INTA, and tackle underlying issues in order to secure a shared future termines the amount of to be lower than this fort cuts is a feature of gestive gases from bovine is not very practical at the with methane having 23 with tolerance at its heart. fish the fleet can catch in year’s, but prawns will proposals for a revised stomach cavities through a moment, but if you look times the global warming “The Haass talks are the forum through which we need to the year ahead. certainly be our number Cod Recovery Plan, but tube and into a tank. ahead to 2050, when fossil effect as carbon dioxide. seek agreement on flags, parades and the past and I am a committed to the process and finding resolution for the sake of Minister O’Neill said: one priority. a revised Plan has yet to The gases - which oth- fuel reserves are going to “This is also a way to everyone, including businesses, in Northern Ireland.” “It was very useful to “During the meeting be adopted by Europe.” erwise are commonly be in trouble, it is an alter- mitigate that,” Berra said. meet with industry rep- I highlighted that any The meeting also pro- resentatives to exchange increases in quota will vided an opportunity F arry commends 1,000th management and views on the European have to be backed up to touch on other chal- Commission’s propos- with sound scientific lenges facing the fish- leadership training participant als for fish quotas and evidence to assure the ing industry. Minister Employment and Learn- management and leadership came the 1,000th person to and Leadership Develop- ment’s management and lead- agree what priorities we Commission that the O’Neill said: “We also ing Minister, Dr Stephen programmes for local busi- receive a fully funded place ment Programme (MLDP) ership training programme. should focus on in the stock will be fished had a useful exchange of Farry, has commended the nesses and social economy on the Department’s suite of and the INTRO Graduate The offer of 100% funding lead up to the December sustainably in line with views with the industry 1,000th person to be awarded enterprises. management and leadership Programme. The courses aim was a huge bonus, and we Council. their requirements.” about what we need to a 100% funded place on the The Minister met with training programmes since to develop management and hope see the bottom-line ben- “As usual the propos- The Minister added: do together to make sure Department for Employment Megan Hamill from JHF the start of April 2013. leadership competency in efits in the near future.” als are a mixed bag. “On fishing effort, the that industry is profitable and Learning’s manage- Enterprises, an ice-cream The Department’s manage- Northern Ireland. Further information on There is a welcome Commission has once and sustainable in the ment and leadership training and coffee shop based in ment and leadership suite of Jonathan Foster, Managing the Department’s suite of proposal for an increase again proposed a cut long term. We all want a programmes. Holywood, who attended the training courses comprises Director of JHF Enterprises, management and leadership in the Irish Sea herring which potentially reduc- more confident industry In April 2013, Minster New2 Accelerate course in of the Management Analysis said: “I am delighted to have programmes can be found at: quota but for our most es the number of days at that is prepared and able Farry announced there would September. and Planning (MAP) Pro- the opportunity to train my http://www.nibusinessinfo. important stock, prawns, sea available for fishing. to invest in its future.” be a package of 100% funded In doing so, Megan be- gramme, the Management staff through the Depart- co.uk/madenotborn. Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 31 “Curves has transformed my life Farry Addresses and given me the confidence to do The European things I never thought possible” Employment Forum Curves announces the finalists of its Curvette of the Year 2013 competition Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry Curves, the UK’s lead- changes and join Curves. e x t r e m e l y recently addressed the European Employment Forum in ing fitness and weight- Jeanette loves work- well to Brussels. loss centre for women ing out in a female-only reach the fi- The forum theme young people to either High level skills are is proud to announce environment and the sup- nal stages of was entitled: ‘Revers- miss out on opportu- critical for all of our that Jeanette Barnes a portive staff at Curves the competi- ing trends and creat- nities to consolidate economies, as are the member from Curves have helped Jeanette tion and we ing jobs for young their skills and training creation of modern Newtownards, has won to realise that she can are so proud people – encountering through the practical systems of appren- second place in the an- lead a full and active of her, she life transitions and experience that comes ticeships and youth nual Curvette of the Year life without children. has worked what difference will from employment. training. competition. Curves has helped Jean- so hard to the youth employment “Young people The Minister con- This is the 2nd year in a ette in so many ways; achieve her package make?’ face these challenges cluded: “My top prior- row that a member from her overall health has goal, her Addressing delegates against the backdrop ity is to build the right Curves Newtownards has improved and she now story em- on the issue of youth of a fast changing opportunities for all won the Northern Ireland understands how to lose bodies what unemployment and labour market across our young people so competition and has Jeanette Barnes weight and keep it off. the Curves young people who are Europe. Skills needs that no young person come 2nd in the overall before her Her renewed sense of woman is all Not in Employment, have changed with soft is left behind. All our transformation UK competition. self-confidence has im- about - with Education or Training skills and customer young people must Beating hundreds of proved her relationship determina- (NEET), the Minis- facing skills becoming be supported on their hopefuls to come second, 14/16. with her husband, who tion and ter said: “We are all increasingly important. career journey with op- Jeanette, 48 joined six Jeanette’s weight gain is incredibly proud of her s u p p o r t , facing the twin chal- It is also vital that we portunities to provide regional finalists from was gradual, a lavish transformation. it really is Jeanette has lost over 5 ½ lenges of driving up enthuse and inspire them with the neces- p o s s i b l e across the UK for an all- lifestyle and comfort On being a finalist in stone since joining Curves skill levels to meet the our young people to sary skills and experi- expenses paid, glamor- the competition Jeanette to reach eating over the years to in September 2012 and has demands of the mod- study STEM courses ence to gain jobs and ous Curvette experience says: “I owe so much your health, help her deal with some slimmed down from a size 28 ern, knowledge-based, and consider STEM help grow the local at Champneys Henlow. personal challenges in to Curves. The team at weight-loss to a size 14/16. global economy and to careers. economy.” To reward her incred- life the weight just kept Newtownards has helped and fitness maximise levels of par- “My Department’s During the two day ible achievements, Jean- going on. Jeanette hadn’t me transform my life goals and turn your life personal one to one ticipation in the labour strategies, programmes visit to Brussels, the ette has also received realised just how much and taught me a differ- around.” coaching, diet, exercise market. and services ensure Minister also met with a shopping spree at La weight she had gained ent, healthy way to live. Burning up to 500 and motivation. “Youth unemploy- Redoute, a photoshoot until she looked at pic- I’m so proud of every- calories in a session, the *Please see www. young people are given a range of stakeholders experience courtesy of tures taken on her 25th thing I’ve achieved and Curves 30-minute circuit curves.co.uk for more ment is much more of all the support neces- to discuss employment Venture Photography and Wedding Anniversary I couldn’t have done it is a proven programme details. a challenge than ensur- sary to make these issues including Com- a subscription to Woman and was embarrassed without them!” of strength training, For more informa- ing that our citizens are transitions in life. We missioner Andor, the magazine. by how she’d let herself Commenting on the cardio and stretching tion please contact given the opportunity also have to ensure EU’s commissioner for Jeanette joined Curves go. Her 50th Birthday results and Jeanette’s suitable for women Ashley Harris at Entice to fully participate in that we are providing Employment, Social in September 2012 and was approaching and the story, Pam McMinn the of all ages and fitness Communications society. It is also a a range of pathways Affairs and Inclusion, has since lost over 5 ½ thought of being 50 and owner of Curves in New- levels. Curves are cur- Tel: 020 8959 3656 challenge to our com- for young people into and senior Commission stone, slimming down a size 28 spurred Jean- townards and Bangor rently launching Curves Ashley.h@enticecom petitiveness, in that further and higher edu- Education and Culture from a size 28 to a size ette to make some real says: “Jeanette has done Complete which includes munications.com we cannot afford our cation and into work. and Research officials. Forty One Local Learners Bound For Skills Show In Birmingham Forty one learners from across Northern Ireland are competing in the national finals in 20 skill areas at the Skills Show in Birmingham. The Skills Show, Learning Minister Dr national and world level encourage young people which took place from Stephen Farry said: “I and I am hopeful that and adults to be ambi- 14 to 16 November 2013 wish every competitor this will continue in tious in their pursuit of at the NEC, is the UK’s the best of luck. It takes Birmingham.” skills to the highest level largest skills and careers hard work, determina- The highlight of the and taking part enables event and celebrates the tion and a high level of Show is the WorldSkills competitors to build on importance of skills to skill to compete against UK National Competi- their skills, test their economic growth. Dur- the UK’s most talented tion Finals which take knowledge against their ing the three days of apprentices and learners. place in 70 skills areas peers and showcase their the Skills Show, forty “Events like this ranging from floristry to potential to employers. one Northern Ireland showcase the high mechanical engineering. Winners from the learners competed with levels of talent we pos- Northern Ireland’s com- Skills Show will have 800 of the UK’s most sess and celebrate our petitors will be compet- the opportunity to com- talented apprentices excellent standards of ing in 20 skill areas pete to qualify to take and learners in front of teaching and learning. ranging from car body part in WorldSkills 2015 100,000 visitors to be Northern Ireland enjoys repair and plumbing to which will be taking named the UK’s ’best’ in an impressive track hairdressing, caring and place in Sao Paulo, Bra- their skill area. record at skills com- popular music. zil, from 11 to 16 August Employment and petitions at regional, Skills competitions 2015. McCausland Announces £2.4Million To Help Transform Comber Town Centre Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has announced a £2.4million public realm scheme for Comber Town Centre. The scheme encom- Making the announce- strategy ‘Envisaging the welcomed the confirma- passing High Street, The ment, Minister McCaus- future of Comber’. tion of funding. He said: Square, Bridge Street, land said: “This represents “I know from the success “This investment by DSD Bridge Street Link, a significant investment by of public realm schemes and the Council will trans- Killinchy Street and Castle the Northern Ireland Ex- in other towns, that this form the visual appear- Street will reinvigorate ecutive and Ards Borough investment will make a ance of the town centres, Comber, creating a unique Council. The scheme has significant contribution to enhancing their appeal as and uniform identity for been designed to bring the improving the fortunes of places to visit and shop, the town centre. The de- maximum benefit to all of the town centre. This fund- with the associated posi- sign concepts were devel- Comber’s residents and ing demonstrates my on- tive economic impact. I oped in partnership with to make the town centre going commitment to the look forward now to see- Ards Borough Council, much more attractive to regeneration of Comber.” ing the designs developed and, community and busi- visitors. This scheme is Mayor of Ards, Coun- and finalised and to work ness representatives. a fundamental part of the cillor Stephen McIlveen, beginning.” North Down Advertiser Page 32 Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down SWEET DREAMS FOR MLA welcomes NEWTOWNARDS European YOUNGSTER THANKS TO Circuit of NEW SPECIALIST BED Ireland Rally Disabled Newtownards youngster Daniel Smyth is now sleeping safely thanks to a specialist bed North Down DUP MLA Gordon Dunne has welcomed the donated by Marks & Spencer and Newlife Foundation for Disabled Children. inclusion of the Circuit of Ireland Rally in the 2014 European The four-year-old has an a positive impact it has the efforts of M&S in help- undiagnosed genetic condi- had on his lifestyle. Our ing to improve the lives of Rally Championship. tion which presents with se- partnership with Newlife disabled and terminally ill he MLA and keen vere Global Developmental is not only great for the children within the local Tmotorsports enthusiast Delay. His condition means environment, as it means no community and across the joined with Event Director that Daniel has no speech waste goes to landfill, but UK. Equipment that costs Bobby Willis, Rally Driver or mobility and requires it also helps to improve the from hundreds to several Marty McCormack and assistance with all activities lives of disabled children thousands of pounds really DETI Minister Arlene Fos- of daily living. Although he by providing much-needed can revolutionise lives. We ter for the announcement at can roll and sit unaided, he specialist equipment.” are very grateful to every- Stormont. has no saving reflexes and M&S has worked in part- one involved, and would Enterprise, Trade and very little understanding of nership with the Newlife encourage other groups and Investment Minister Arlene his environment, so he can charity for the last seven individuals to keep fund- Foster said: easily hurt himself. years to recycle returned raising to help us make a Daniel attends a specialist products – in keeping with difference.” “It is a wonderful coup Newtownards youngster Daniel Smyth for the ‘Circuit of Ireland school part time but, de- its commitment to send Newlife is the UK’s lead- 2014’ to be selected as a leg spite his vision and hearing head raised, which helps means Daniel doesn’t hurt no operational waste to ing children’s disability of the 2014 European Rally being monitored regularly, reduce reflux. It’s so much himself when he moves landfill by 2012 as part of charity that works closely Championship. Bobby Willis, Marty McCormack, Gordon it is unclear how much he better than having to put around. He used to wake Plan A, its eco and ethical with families to provide a “There is huge interest in Dunne MLA and Minister Arlene Foster can see or hear. He has a books under one end of a himself really easily when programme. range of services and essen- this new series and the event restrictive diet due to a cot – he just used to slip he banged his arms and legs Newlife sells the major- tial equipment for children will help raise the profile rosport’s 125 million sub- ship here in Northern Ire- severe reflux which means down to the bottom end. on the sides of the standard ity of the donated products with disabilities and life- of Northern Ireland to TV scribers. As well as being land. The ‘Circuit’ is a won- he wakes up several times As he continues to grow the cot. Not waking so early in the Newlife Superstore limiting conditions across audiences across Europe. able to watch high profile derful event which is known a night. The specialist bed profiling features also make and so often means that he in Cannock and recycles the UK. Tourism Ireland will also be drivers battling it out, view- throughout the world and it donated by Newlife helps it much easier to get him in is not as tired when he goes the remaining items to Since the M&S grants pulling out all the stops to ers will see the spectacular is great to have this event to ensure he has a safe en- and out of bed. to school, so he is more re- raise money for disabled scheme was launched in capitalise on the opportuni- landscapes and beautiful restored to its full glory. An vironment in which to sleep “We are seeing a real dif- sponsive than before.” children. October 2010, it has helped ties that the rally will create. scenery that Northern Ire- event like this is a fantastic and prevent injury. ference. He now goes off to Simon Lucas, M&S Head Sheila Brown OBE, to specifically fund 147 “Through a well estab- land has to offer.” spectacle and will bring a Daniel’s mum Claire sleep by himself at bedtime of Region for Northern chief executive of Newlife pieces of essential equip- lished working relationship North Down DUP MLA real boost to tourism and the Smyth said: “Having this instead of having to be Ireland said: “Being able Foundation added: “Our ment totalling more than with Eurosport, Tourism Gordon Dunne added: local economy whilst also specialist bed has made nursed to sleep. He really to provide the equipment partnership with M&S £400,000 for disabled Ireland has ensured several ‘I am delighted that we are helping to put our country things so much better. The loves the secure environ- to Daniel is extremely re- benefits hundreds of chil- children across the UK, stages of the event can be going to have a round of the on the global map for all the profiling feature means ment the bed gives him. warding for the M&S team dren and their families. It with the partnership helping seen across Europe by Eu- European Rally Champion- right reasons.’ Daniel can sleep with his “Having a padded bed and it’s great to hear what is very encouraging to see hundreds more since 2004. Health Minister recognises the vital work of Housing Minister calls carers at Dementia Achievements Conference Minister Edwin Poots recently presented the awards at the Northern Ireland Dementia Achievements on housing sector Conference at the Stormont Hotel in Belfast. The awards are a celebra- ments in the care of people sectors, and to all the car- carers, to those working in to tackle the future issues tion of innovation and good living with dementia, and ers out there who provide the statutory and independ- that go hand in hand with to help design a new practice. They are designed their carers and families. the support that most of us ent sectors, delivering care living with dementia.” to recognise organisations “There have been a could not to people living and driving innovation and The NI Office of the and individuals who have number of awards presented with dementia. The work improvements. Dementia Services Devel- worked to improve the today, and I would just like that you all do is vital.” Minister continued: “The opment Centre operates as model for housing quality of life of people to congratulate the winners The awards provide an work done by you individu- a branch of the Dementia with dementia. The awards in each category. Your rec- opportunity to celebrate the als, and by organisations Services Development Housing Minister Nelson McCausland has called on the are run by the Dementia ognition is most certainly important work undertaken such as the Dementia Serv- Centre, whose aim is to pro- wider housing sector and tenant groups to offer their views Services Development deserved. to support people with ices Development Centre, mote awareness and high on the design of a new model for social housing in Northern Centre. “I would also congratu- dementia. The winners and has helped drive dementia standards of care for people Speaking after the presen- late all those who were nominees are involved in into the consciousness of with dementia. They have Ireland. tations, Minister said “Eve- nominated and extend my activities that have made the public, the media and been supported by both the The Minister ad- enables investment in velop the best possible ryone here today is worthy thanks to all those dedicated a difference to the lives of those in government. We Department and by Atlantic dressed more than our communities. This solution for Northern of praise. We are here to staff members, both in the people with dementia, rang- will continue to strive for Philanthropies for the last 150 stakeholders at an is not a short term aim. Ireland. A model that celebrate your achieve- statutory and independent ing from volunteers and further improvements and five years. event in Belfast recent- Any new model must meets both the exist- ly, including Assembly have a positive impact ing and future housing Regular Exercise members, Housing As- on Northern Ireland needs of our citizens Lost dentures, loose eyeball sociations, the North- and be sustainable for and one which truly ern Ireland Housing many years to come. enables our communi- Prevents Depression Executive and various “In the past few ties to prosper. It has among sick-day excuses While prior research has found that exercise goes a long A heavy turkey dinner “These are funny ex- ple said they used sick days way in boosting your mood, a new scientific review suggests housing, staff and months I have vis- never been my inten- caused one worker to sleep planations, but employee to see a doctor, including that regular activity can even prevent episodes of depression. tenant representative ited regions of Great tion to develop a model through his shift. Another absence is a fairly seri- one employee who called Researchers from the University of Toronto analyzed more groups. The event aims Britain where work to in isolation and one said his false teeth flew out ous issue for employers,” in because his “fake eye than 26 years’ worth of research on the subject, finding that to present best practice deliver a step change of the key purposes the car window as he was said Patricia Purdy, vice was falling out of its sock- low levels of physical activity, such as walking and gardening to a range of stakehold- in the delivery of social of today’s event is to driving along the highway. president of core benefits et,” according to the report. for 20 to 30 minutes a day, can ward off depression in people ers allowing them to housing is already tak- stimulate discussion These were just two of with Chicago-based Pacific One third of respondents of all age groups, regardless of one’s individual predisposition offer their views. ing place. I am keen and gather views. the imaginative excuses Resources, an employee said they used sick days toward depression. Speaking at the event, that those lessons are “There is much to be employees gave bosses absence management because they just didn’t Findings, announced recently appeared online in the Ameri- Minister McCausland shared with my of- done over the coming can Journal of Preventive Medicine. when calling in sick last company. feel like going to work. said: “From the outset ficials and the hous- weeks, months, and Researcher George Mammen, a Ph.D. candidate working year, according to a study On average, employee One said he was “too of this process I have ing sector here, so we even years. I am con- released recently by absences account for 35 grouchy from quitting under the helm of study coauthor Dr. Guy Faulker, says that the findings come at a time when mental health professionals made it clear that I can develop our own fident that by working CareerBuilder, the jobs percent of an employer’s smoking” to go to the of- have no preconcep- Northern Ireland mod- together we can create website. base payroll, Purdy said. fice that day. are searching to expand their approach to mental health beyond writing prescriptions. tions or predetermined el. To this end I have housing structures that Nearly a third of the When someone doesn’t “While some employ- “We need a prevention strategy now more than ever,” he outcomes. asked leading figures in support the provision 5,500 workers and manag- come to work, bosses have ers may be flexible with said. “Our health system is taxed. We need to shift focus and ers who took part in the to pay overtime to workers how employees use their “My housing re- the housing field from of social and afford- look for ways to fend off depression from the start.” form programme is other jurisdictions to able homes, in thriving online survey admitted to who do, sometimes pay sick days, 16 percent say He adds: “It’s definitely worth taking note that if you’re cur- taking sick days when they replacement workers, and they’ve fired employees for about establishing a share their experiences communities where rently active, you should sustain it. If you’re not physically housing model that is at this event. people are proud to were not in fact ill, which absorb the costs of lower calling in sick with a fake active, you should initiate the habit. This review shows prom- experts said costs busi- productivity, she said. excuse,” CareerBuilder ising evidence that the impact of being active goes far beyond tenant-focused, that The Minister con- live.” nesses money. Only 24 percent of peo- said. the physical.” is sustainable and that tinued: “I want to de- Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 33 Does Your Child Struggle with School Work? Get Frustrated Easily? Have Difficulty Getting to Sleep? Learning Breakthrough Can Help! The Learning Break- into the shower now by an educational psy- through Programme can, a child aged 7 who chologist who discov- which is giving chil- had never smiled now ered that, even though dren and adults with laughs and has friends he was very bright ADHD, Dyslexia and and children who were with an IQ of 121, his Autism the chance to locked inside a ‘bub- spelling range was that unlock their potential ble’ can now process of a seven year old and has been brought to and understand eve- his reading and com- N. Ireland by a local rything that is going prehension was at the mum after her own two on around them – life level of an eight and a boys’ lives were trans- is no longer scary, too half year old, confirm- formed by it. loud, feels annoying or ing her suspicious that Susan Steele from smells funny etc. he had dyslexia. N e w t o w n a b b e y Incredibly children Susan paid to have watched her two boys struggling with ADHD each of her boys as- struggle with school no longer require sessed and then en- and home life for years medication. Their par- rolled them in the pro- before finding what ents have noticed after gramme for one year. she says proved to be a a while that the child Since then they haven’t miracle. is the calmest one get- looked back. When her One of her sons had ting into the car after youngest son had com- dyslexia and the other school or no longer pleted the programme, ADHD, but both no ‘runs too fast’ in their Susan brought him longer have any symp- head in the evenings. back to the educational toms after taking part They can gradually psychologist to be re- in what is a simple reduce their medica- assessed. After a year to follow, year long tion with their GP’s of doing the exercises programme, which in- advice and eventually his spelling was just volves doing no longer need it! eight months behind specialist exercises Susan told us “The and his reading was up twice a day for just 15 children I see every to the standard for his minutes. day are very bright but age which was 11 and The exercises are they just can’t prove a half. The comment designed to strengthen it on paper or socially read, he is overtaking the neural pathways etc. They are often others in the ‘race’ (in which control balance, written-off as being other words his stand- focus and coordina- bold, lazy or cheeky. ard scores had not just tion. These elements Tragically a lot of the progressed in line with are underdeveloped in children I see think his age). children with various they are stupid – noth- Said Susan: learning difficulties, ing could be further “I always knew I making school work from the truth. They couldn’t sit on this and family life very are bright stars who miracle I had seen in difficult. try 10 times harder my own children and When the pro- than other children and that I had to make it gramme, which her achieve a worse result available to other fami- boys followed, pulled in many cases.” lies.” Now the pro- out of Northern Ireland Susan explained how gramme is established, a few years ago, Susan she came across the she offers a free as- felt compelled to do programme and what sessment which takes something to bring it inspired her to intro- two hours and will back and make it avail- duce it here. “My first confirm if the child or able for other families. child was never out of adult will benefit from She launched Learn- the naughty chair in the programme She ing Support Serv- nursery and through- explains how it works: ices NI part time three out school I was con- “We use a unique, years ago and two stantly being called adjustable balance years ago, gave up into the headmaster’s board, bean bags and her well paid job of office because of his various balls which 26 years as a finan- behaviour. He couldn’t are supplied within the cial advisor to run concentrate and was kit. Full support for the programme full easily distracted. He the year is included time. She has recently was a fussy eater and in the one off cost of moved to 1 Merville couldn’t sleep. £720.00. This cost is Garden Village, New- “He hated homework not per child, it covers townabbey and now and would have done the whole family. trades as ‘Learning anything to get out “The exercises are Breakthrough.’ She has of doing it. I asked designed to help the recently enrolled her in Primary five if he brain process informa- 200th child on the pro- could have ADHD but tion more efficiently. gramme and says the was told he hadn’t. We The changes in all the results for those who didn’t know then what children who have have been through The problems he was deal- been through the pro- Learning Breakthrough ing with.” gramme have been Programme have been It was when her old- remarkable.” dramatic. est son went to second- To book a FREE con- Every dyslexic child ary school and was sultation please call the who has completed still struggling that office on 02890 364 it has gone on to be Susan went online and 000 or mobile 07790 moved up to the top discovered an exercise 245 145. stream in their school. programme. On read- You can also email She has seen autistic ing about it, she also your enquiries to su- children whose parents identified symptoms of [email protected] were told they would dyslexia in her young- Watch our 5 minute never talk start con- est boy who was 10 video on the website – versing normally. Chil- and a half at the time. www.LBreakthrough. dren who couldn’t get She had him assessed co.uk North Down Advertiser Page 34 Issue 92 - December 2013 New Model Year SUBARU OUTBACK, THE Alfa Mito Now On CROSSOVER PIONEER, GETS A Sale In The Uk MAKEOVER AND DIESEL AUTO The 2014 Alfa MiTo has gone on sale in UK offering Launched in Europe in 1996, the original Subaru Outback pioneered the ‘Crossover’ concept, customers higher specification, revised interiors, subtle combining the comfort, interior space and superior on-road handling of a family estate with the off-road styling enhancements and even more advanced technologies, capability and ground clearance of a sports utility vehicle. including the UconnectTM five-inch, colour touch-screen Upgraded for the 2014 body-coloured cladding in instrumentation – includ- For the exterior there Further highlights include infotainment system as standard equipment and the addition model year, Subaru engi- place of the previous itera- ing the addition of a liquid are new 17-inch gunmetal front fog lights, pop-up of the new 105hp TwinAir engine to the range. neers have now realised tion’s black plastic. crystal instrument cluster alloy wheels, along with headlight washers, heated further improvements to Buyers now have a wider display and new materials body-coloured bumpers, mirrors, rear window de- Externally the 2014 fort and throttle response, wheels; cruise control; the Outback, enhancing the range of colours to choose for a number of dashboard body-coloured power fold- fogger with timer, front and MiTo benefits from a can be adjusted via Alfa rear parking sensors and car’s handling characteris- from – including two new elements. Black metallic ing door mirrors (with side window defrosters, new, chromed front grille; Romeo’s trademark ALFA a front centre arm rest, tics with revised suspension colours: Deep Sea Blue panels bring about a more integrated LED indicator and a windscreen wiper de- titanium grey headlamp D.N.A. three-mode se- while “Sportiva” includes components and the latest Pearl and Dark Grey Metal- modern and premium ap- repeaters), and matching icer function. and tail lamps surrounds; lectable driving mode sys- 18-inch QV sports alloy incarnation of Subaru’s Inside, the new SX model tinted rear windows and a tem. Where fitted, ALFA wheels; a QV steering Vehicle Dynamics Control. provides the Outback sports rear bumper, as well SDC adaptive suspension wheel and hand-brake The model also features a with a wealth of useful as a revised colour palette and ALFA TCT transmis- lever (trimmed in black revised design for both the equipment. Audio and that now includes a new sion settings are also leather with green interior and exterior. cruise control functions “Matte Magnesio Grey” adjustable via the ALFA stitching); satin-effect However the most sig- are present on the leather- nificant change for the trimmed steering wheel, finish. D.N.A. system. exterior highlights and Outback is the introduction while new sports seats at The interior is thor- The model line-up has special badges. The high- of a new powertrain pair- the front are heated to pro- oughly revised with new been streamlined with four performance QV adds red, dashboards, upgraded trim levels now available: ing. A world first, Subaru vide extra comfort when four-piston Brembo brake engineers have combined the weather turns cold. plastics and a new Ucon- Sprint, Distinctive, Sporti- callipers, SDC active sus- nectTM five-inch, touch- va and Quadrifoglio Verde the popular 2.0-litre Boxer For further comfort and pension system, bespoke diesel engine with a Line- convenience of driver and screen infotainment (QV). In addition to the sports seats with uprated artronic CVT (continuously passengers, dual-zone au- system with voice recogni- features listed above, all upholstery and special QV variable transmission) – tomatic air-conditioning, tion, Bluetooth, steering models are equipped with wing badges. bringing improvements in Bluetooth® hands-free wheel remote controls, Start& Stop; air condition- The MiTo engine range driveability, fuel economy system, audio system with USB/Aux ports and op- ing; a leather-trimmed now comprises five turbo- and emissions while also USB connectivity and a tional satellite navigation. steering wheel and gear charged engines, all with widening the car’s appeal VGA centre display with A comprehensive array knob; electric windows Start&Stop as standard - immensely. rear vision camera are all of traction, braking and and mirrors; seven airbags; three petrol and two diesel With the new engine and The Subaru Outback present. stability control systems is front fog lamps, a rear units. The 0.9 TwinAir gearbox combination the New speedometer and rev standard on all Alfa MiTo spoiler and alloy wheels. Turbo engine benefits from 2014 MY Subaru Outback counter dials feature in the models and these systems, “Distinctive” highlights a 20hp boost in perform- will return 44.8 mpg and lic – while larger fog lamps pearance and feel, while in- colour-coded door handles. Outback’s upgraded instru- along with steering ef- include 17-inch alloy ance - now 105hp - which 166g/km CO2 on the com- and the addition of a gloss struments within the cock- Silver roof rails and a roof ment binnacle, while a one- translates to a 0-62mph bined cycle. black finish to the front pit have been moved to spoiler are other exterior touch lane change facility time that’s 1.1 seconds The Outback line-up has headlamps give the car improve user-friendliness. accents, while a power-slid- has also been added which faster than the previous received a visual upgrade, greater road presence than The 2014 MY Subaru ing glass sunroof (with sun- activates the indicators to before. The alloy wheels 85hp version. Despite the refreshing the vehicle’s Outback 2.0D Lineartronic shade) and UV protected flash three times. looks. Emphasising the now have a gunmetal finish variant will feature a new front, side and rear glass Additional features of additional performance, Outback’s sense of tough- as standard. trim level, the SX. High also feature. Self-levelling leather interior and satellite the MiTo TwinAir remains ness and its ability to tackle The upgraded cabin of levels of standard equip- automatic HID headlamps navigation are available impressively efficient, with all roads and conditions, the latest Outback features ment are featured inside and rain sensing wipers add as dealer fit options if the a combined fuel economy the latest model features clearer and more modern and out. convenience for the driver. customers wish to upgrade. figure of 67.3 mpg and CO2emissions of just 99g/ km. The 1.4 TB MultiAir BMW i3 electrifies The 135hp (available with a manual or the Alfa TCT twin dry clutch transmission) and the 1.4 TB Sunday Times Top 100 Cars MultiAir 170hp QV engine complete the petrol line- The BMW i3 has collected its first accolade in the UK even before it goes on sale in November, having up, while the diesel range topped the Electric and Hybrid Car category in The Sunday Times Top 100 Car list. consists of the 1.3 JTDM-2 85hp and the 1.6 JTDM-2 Lauded for its holistic highly competative cat- hybrid BMW 120hp powerplants. approach to electric car egory. Published on Sunday i8 sports car. Prices for the 2014 ownership and genuine 20 October, the supplement The BMW i3 appeal, not just to those highlights the 100 best cars is BMW’s first Alfa Romeo MiTo start looking for an electric car, on sale, as judged by The f u l l y - e l e c t r i c at £14,350 for the 105hp the BMW i3 trumps the Sunday Times Driving edi- production car TwinAir Sprint. competition in this new but torial team. It will be avail- and is due to go able to all digital subscribers on sale in the at thesundaytimes.co.uk and UK in late 2013, from Monday 21st October priced from on Driving.co.uk. £369 a month or Commenting on the £25,680 OTR. BMW i3 The Sunday Times Meanwhile, the Driving team concluded: BMW i8 will go “BMW has bided its time on sale in the UK while others took their in 2014 priced at first tentative steps into the £99,845 OTR. electric car market. The The new electric car from BMW, the i3 Like the i8, the brilliance of the i3 comes BMW i3 features not in revolutionary battery an all-aluminium technology for there is none, electric.” BMW i cars are confirmed chassis combined with a but by being a car someone The new BMW i3 is the for production, the fully- passenger cell made entirely might consider buying first model to launch within electric BMW i3 megac- from carbon-fibre-reinforced for reasons other than it’s the BMW i range. Two ity vehicle and the plug-in plastic. As well as the vehicles themselves, BMW i will encompass a range of premium services for mobility aimed at optimising the use of parking spaces, charging infrastructure, ‘smart’ navigation systems, intermodal route planning and access to other BMW vehicles on an ‘on-demand’ basis. BMW is the first premium vehicle manufacturer to offer such a comprehensive ownership package sur- rounding electric mobility. Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 35 Ballyrobert Celebrates REFRESHED MERIVA BOXES CLEVER WITH NEW DIESEL ENGINE Vauxhall’s Meriva will come of age with a new look and class-leading Euro-6 Arrival Of Vauxhall’s New diesel engine when the model goes on sale in the UK next month. Launched in 2010, the ance from the new Meriva A separate pricing an- Meriva goes on sale, with second-generation Meriva has also been improved, nouncement will be made first customer deliveries in Insignia Line-Up turned the compact MPV the 1.6 CDTi model ac- next month when the new January 2014. class on its head, with celerating from 0-60mph Vauxhall’s highly-acclaimed New Insignia range are arriving in Bangor and its clever FlexDoors in 9.1 seconds, nearly a Newtownabbey, and Ballyrobert is inviting motorists to discover more about this system – rear-hinged second quicker than the rear doors which allow a 1.7 CDTi, thanks to its new model line-up. 20 per cent larger open- additional 6PS and 20Nm The new range offers new ing for passengers – and of torque. The Meriva’s design, greater cutting-edge FlexSpace system, which petrol engine range (1.4 equipment, significantly im- allows rear passengers a 100PS, 1.4T 120 & 140PS) proved engines and a more variety of different seating remains and is now fully engaging driving experience combinations. Euro-6 compliant. on-the-road. It comprises a The Meriva now gets a Like all Vauxhalls, the five-door Hatchback, four- new grille, chrome accents Meriva comes with Life- door Saloon and Sports that frame the front fog time Warranty, which of- Tourer estate, alongside lamps and newly-designed fers first owners peace of an all-new, range-topping, headlamps with an ‘eagle- mind for as long as they SUV-inspired Country Tour- eye’ graphic. For the first own the car, up to 100,000 er variant and a high per- time, LED daytime run- miles. formance VXR Supersport; ning lights and LED tail the fastest car available in lights are available as an the UK for under £30,000. option. Complementing Order banks are open the design revisions are and prices now start at just new optional 18-inch alloy £16,279, which is nearly £2,000 less than the entry wheels. level vehicle of the outgo- Fresh from its launch in ing line-up. With its clas- the Zafira Tourer, Vaux- sic lines, fine styling and One of Vauxhall’s New Insignia Line-Up hall’s all-new 1.6 CDTi premium design, Vauxhall’s diesel engine is now avail- New Insignia range is likely control. Customers can also refinements. be ordered from Ballyrobert able in the Meriva. The to appeal to families, busi- enjoy full smartphone com- SUV-inspired Country and deliveries are already Euro-6 compliant engine, ness users and company car patibility alongside a DMB Tourer arriving. First orders for the which is already setting drivers alike. (Digital Media Broadcast) An all-new rugged, SUV- Insignia Country Tourer are a high benchmark in the What’s more, motor- radio across the range. inspired Insignia Country expected to arrive in Bangor industry for efficiency ists will benefit from a Customers of the retailer Tourer has been added to and Newtownabbey in Janu- and refinement, produces completely re-designed with sites in Bangor and the New Insignia range ary 2014. 136PS and 320Nm of centre console and instru- Mallusk can also take and promises an attention- The New Insignia range torque at 2,000rpm, yet ment cluster and improved advantage of the New In- grabbing drive. This also comes with Vauxhall’s achieves a remarkable control-functionality. signia’s four new engines, competitively priced, top Lifetime Warranty, offering 64.2mpg combined and Superior as standard including: a 98g/km 120PS of the range new model is first owners complete peace 116g/km of C02 emis- The New Insignia range and 140PS 2.0 CDTi; an all- based on the Sports Tourer of mind for as long as they sions. This equates to a 10 comes with a long list of new 1.6 SIDI 170PS Turbo variant of the Insignia but own the car, up to 100,000 per cent improvement in high-level equipment as petrol; and a new 250PS 2.0 offers advanced all-wheel miles. economy/emissions over standard, including an all- SIDI Turbo petrol, alongside drive capability alongside To discover more about the 1.7 CDTi, which the new infotainment system the Insignia’s existing die- tougher styling. Priced the new range or to find your new unit replaces. incorporating Bluetooth, sel units, which have also from £25,349 on-the-road nearest retailer just go online Diesel engine perform- alloy wheels and cruise benefited from a series of the New Insignia range can to www.ballyrobert.co.uk. MINI Now With Exclusive Frozen Black Metallic Paint Finish MINI is extending its program of exterior paint finishes for current models to include an exclusive new variant. Frozen Black metallic finished separately in the paint is now available as a paint finish Frozen Black limited edition colour for metallic. Due to the labour the top of the range MINI intensive process used to Countryman and MINI apply this exclusive body Paceman models. This in- colour during production novative paint which has it is limited to a restricted a textured, shimmering number of cars. matt finish, gives the car Frozen Black metallic a striking and expressive is of the same high qual- appearance. The new ity as the other paint fin- colour and finish is avail- ishes available for MINI able for the MINI Cooper in terms of abrasion resist- Limited edition Frozen Black metallic paint S Countryman, MINI ance and colour fidelity. Cooper SD Countryman, The finish is completely MINI Cooper S Paceman, dure, which involves not base layer for grip and weather resistant and car MINI Cooper SD Pace- just innovative technol- corrosion protection, the wash resistant, however man, MINI John Cooper ogy but also a high level colour layer as well as the hand washing does require Works Countryman and of manual craftsmanship, clear lacquer finish which special care as spot clean- MINI John Cooper Works is now being applied for has added silicates to cre- ing of the surface using Paceman. the first time by Austrian ate the matted impression wax or polish can leave The Frozen Black metal- production partner Magna as well as the velvet effect an unwanted gloss effect. lic paint finish is created Steyr in Graz where the which can be seen and felt. For this reason the BMW using a complex manufac- MINI Paceman and MINI Attached exterior parts Group offers care products turing process exclusive Countryman are produced. such as the model-specific developed specially for to the BMW Group. This The special surface treat- front and rear aprons and treating the Frozen Black special painting proce- ment encompasses the the exterior mirror caps are metallic paint finish. North Down Advertiser Page 36 Issue 92 - December 2013 Integrated education supporters celebrated at the House of Lords Baroness May Blood, Campaign Chair of the Integrated Education Fund, welcomed around 120 guests to the House of Lords recently for a dinner celebrating the crucial role played by the Fund’s supporters around the world. Sponsored very gen- schools. Carrickfergus. erously by the Carson The party was ad- Donors were joined by family, the London event dressed by Kathleen a number of politicians was a chance to thank the Gormley, Principal of and senior diplomats as stalwart friends who as- Hazelwood Integrated well as past pupils of sist the IEF in our work College, and by Chris- integrated schools. Sup- to help make integration, topher Madden, who is porters travelled from not separation, the norm a former pupil of Ul- far and wide to enjoy the in Northern Ireland’s idia Integrated College in celebration and Baroness Blood took the opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of the many steadfast friends of the Fund who had not been able to make the journey on this occasion. Declar- ing that the IEF would continue to campaign at a crucial time in Northern Ireland, Baroness Blood said: “We have had 100 years of separate education. We In the picture is South Down MP Margaret Ritchie (l) with Irish know it will not change Ambassador to London Dan Mulhall and Sir Richard Needham at overnight but change the recent dinner hosted by Baroness Blood at the House of Lords to has started and mark celebrate integrated education. my words – change will come. We will continue will provide a vision for get there.” an excellent dinner and to provide the evidence a better education system The event, in the Chol- a fine view, from the ter- that public opinion is on based on integration and mondeley Room of the race, of the Guy Fawkes’ the side of change...We a road map as to how to House of Lords, included Night fireworks. Minister Welcomes Report Into Safeguarding For Children And Vulnerable Adults Culture, Arts and Leisure Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed a report by the Committee for Culture Arts and Leisure looking at gaps in child protection and safeguarding across the sector. Speaking during a the Assembly, the Min- children and vulnerable across my Arms Length debate on the report at ister said: “Making sure adults can have a safe Bodies, we are commit- and secure environment ted to continuing our is of paramount impor- work to develop and im- tance and is an issue we prove our safeguarding do not treat lightly. systems. “Participating in our “Protecting children sector should be a posi- and vulnerable adults tive experience, that’s is the responsibility of why it’s important that all of us therefore I sup- all activities take place in port the committee’s a safe environment free emphasis on promoting from the possibility of a collaborative and co- any form of ill-treatment. ordinated approach on “In the Department and this issue.” Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 37 Local company get results thanks to educational partnership In a bid to boost its competitiveness and product range, a local manufacturing company have joined forces with their Further Education College which it said will allow them to explore new product design possibilities, enter new markets and streamline their production processes. Thanks to an edu- standards. we can help local com- cational partnership SERC Principal and panies fast-track their between South East- Chief Executive Ken ideas to product crea- ern Regional College Webb commented: tion and production.” (SERC) and family run “SERC recognises that SERC offer a wide transport manufacturer, innovative product ide- range of solutions to Motorsport Trailers, the as are an important part meet the specific train- company have benefited of growing the local ing needs of your or- from SERC’s engineer- economy and we rec- ganisation. To find out ing expertise. ognise that not all com- how your business can Working alongside the panies have the capital get results from SERC Ballygowan based com- to invest in equipment. please visit our website pany, SERC produced a By enabling companies’ at www.serc.ac.uk/ range of comprehensive access to equipment and getresults or call us on 3D Computer Aided expertise at the College 0845 600 7555. Design drawings for their range of bespoke Get Results: SERC Principal and Chief trailers, which combine Executive Mr Ken Webb with Paul McCartan a living and garaging from Motorsport Trailers, examining the area for cars, bikes, comprehensive 3D CAD drawing which SERC quads or karts – and all have produced for the company. in a single chassis. On completion of the which were compiled hensive drawings are will act as a blue print project, Motorsports using SERC’s sophis- currently being used for further builds to Trailers were presented ticated software appli- by the company in the ensure their products with 3D evaluations cations. The compre- building process and conform to industry Donaghadee set for £2.4million facelift Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has announced a £2.4million public realm scheme for Donaghadee. The scheme covering Ards Borough Council. ment to the regenera- of the town centres, the Shore Street, New The scheme has been tion of Donaghadee.” enhancing their appeal Street, Bridge Street, designed to make the Mayor of Ards, as places to visit and the Parade and High most of Donaghadee’s Councillor Stephen shop, with the associ- Street areas of the town natural assets and McIlveen, welcomed ated positive economic will help transform beauty, and to make the confirmation of impact. I look forward Donaghadee, creating the town centre and funding: “This invest- now to seeing the de- a distinct and harmo- seafront much more ment by DSD and the signs developed and nious image for the attractive to both locals Council will transform finalised and to work town. The design con- and visitors as a place the visual appearance beginning.” cepts were developed to shop and spend in partnership with time. Ards Borough Council, “This investment community and busi- will make a significant ness representatives. contribution to improv- Making the an- ing the fortunes of the nouncement, Minister town by attracting McCausland said: visitors to the area and “This represents a encouraging private considerable invest- sector investment. This ment by the Northern funding demonstrates Ireland Executive and my ongoing commit- North Down Advertiser Page 38 Issue 92 - December 2013 Tony McCoy Hurdles Christmas Costs Into History Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has congratulated Tony McCoy, who recorded Less In Ards career win number 4,000 recently. Christmas doesn’t have to cost the earth, with the help of the annual The jockey, who Towcester on Moun- The Minister said: national hunt calendar, was born in Money- tain Tunes to reach the “On the 26 March, including the Chel- retail discount voucher scheme for Newtownards, run by Ards glass, won the 3.10 at landmark. 1992, a 17-year-old tenham Gold Cup, Borough Council and Newtownards Chamber of Trade. Tony McCoy rode Le- Champion Hurdle and gal Steps to victory in Grand National. In a Designed to encour- Thurles. It was the first sport where falls are age shoppers to visit win of a career that inevitable and injuries and spend in their local would grow into one common, Tony has town centre this Christ- of the most successful also endured broken mas, the voucher book- in sport. With today’s bones, dislocations and let contains money off milestone, Tony’s hospital stays. coupons and special achievements stand as “What has endeared offers from 78 different legendary in the his- him to fans both here retailers in the town, tory of horse-racing and across the world including fashion out- – both in Ireland and is that he has ac- lets, restaurants, cafes, internationally. cepted triumph and takeaways, opticians, “Tony has been disappointment with hair and beauty salons, champion jockey in modestly, humility and sports, craft, and inte- each of the last 18 good grace. rior design shops. years. To reach the “Now, Tony is judged The number of retail- pinnacle of any sport by the standards he ers offering discounts is commendable, but sets himself. His place has grown steadily and to stay there for almost in Irish and interna- has been welcomed two decades is quite tional sporting history by Mayor of Ards, remarkable. was assured long ago Councillor Stephen “Tony’s career in- and his achievements McIlveen: cludes wins in the continue to be an inspi- “The voucher book- biggest races in the ration for us all.” lets have been very successful over the past number of years and the Council is delighted that even more retailers have signed up to take part this Christmas. The scheme boasts benefits for shoppers and retailers alike during these challenging economic times, offering money off Christmas shopping, which we all know can be costly, as well as encouraging trade in the town centre”. “I’m very pleased Promoting the Christmas discount shopping booklet produced for that the positive part- Newtownards are: (L-R) Heather Lavery, Sheldon Galleries, Chris nership between the Tedford, Molly Brown’s, Mayor of Ards, Councillor Stephen McIlveen Council and our local and Leigh Nelson, Specsavers and President of the Chamber of Trade. traders continues and hope to see more people use the booklets to pick up a bargain, and help reduce the The 2013 Christmas cost of their Christmas Voucher Booklets are shopping”. being delivered to local Voucher booklets homes and can also be were first introduced picked up at participat- back in 2008, when ing retailers and from the Chamber of Trade the Council offices so and the Council began be sure to support your a campaign to promote local retailers this fes- the town as a prime tive season by using shopping destination the vouchers and noth- to encourage both new ing beats saving your- and existing shoppers self a small fortune at to visit the town centre. this costly time. Issue 92 - December 2013 North Down Advertiser Page 39 Gender balanced Listening to Music Eases Pain: Study workforce is good More than 40 percent of people say listening to music can help alleviate pain, with songs by Elton John, Robbie Williams and Simon and Garfunkel among the favourites, a new UK survey out recently said. for business Music seems to have an are: lifestyle changes such as even bigger impact for 1. Bridge Over Trou- moderate exercise and Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry recently addressed young people at an event younger people, with two- bled Water (Simon and relaxation,” said Andrew organised by the Institute of Civil Engineers to mark ‘Tomorrow’s Engineers Week’. thirds those questioned Garfunkel) Mawhinney, a Lloyds he event at Our (STEM) industries that we enthuse and in- “My Department is evant STEM subjects. aged 16 to 24 claiming it 2. Angels (Robbie Pharmacy pharmacist and TLady and St in Northern Ireland spire our young people, continually working To do this, we must helps them manage pain, Williams) pain expert. Patrick’s College in entitled ‘Address- both boys and girls, to with employers to cre- ensure that young peo- according to the study by 3. Albatross (Fleetwood “After speaking to many Knock coincided with ing Gender Balance study STEM courses ate innovative new ple are aware of the di- Lloyds Pharmacy group. Mac) people who are living with the ‘Tomorrow’s Engi- – Reaping the Gender and to progress to opportunities in areas verse range of careers Pop music is the most 4. Candle In The Wind pain, we were interested neers Week’ campaign, Dividend’ report was employment in STEM such as Data Analytics, options available here popular genre for suffer- (Elton John) to learn just how many which took place also launched at the industries. Research Software Testing and in Northern Ireland.” ers, helping to alleviate 5. Easy (The found music beneficial.” pain for 21 percent of Commodores) David Bradshaw, a Re- across the UK recently. event. indicated that a gender Cloud Computing. Over 80 Year 10 pu- people, followed by clas- An estimated 10 million search Assistant Professor The campaign aimed Referring to the re- balanced workforce “Traditionally, more pils from Our Lady and sical 17 at percent and people in Britain experi- at The University of Utah to change perceptions port, which indicated delivers benefits for boys than girls have St Patrick’s College then rock or indie at 16 ence some pain most days, Pain Management Center of engineering careers that STEM posts con- both the employer and studied these subjects Knock, Lagan College percent. Lloyds Pharmacy said. said: “People in pain amongst young people stitute over 11% of the employee. and worked in these and Grosvenor lis- The company is cur- The company based its should try to find some ac- particularly women, workforce in Northern “The sectors that will areas. However, in or- tened to speakers from rently trying out the use research on responses tivity to get fully engaged their parents and Ireland with men out- lead economic growth der to have the size and Schrader, the Institute of music within the pain from over 1,500 people in. teachers. numbering women by in Northern Ireland quality of the future of Civil Engineers and relief service it provides. living with persistent pain. “Listening to favourite A report investigating nearly three to one, include the ICT sector, workforce we need, it multinational engi- The survey found that “There are lots of dif- music is excellent for the gender bias within Minister Farry said: “I Agri-food sector and is important to encour- neering and consult- the top five most helpful ferent ways of manag- that because it can in- Science, Technology, welcome the launch of Advanced Manufactur- age all of our young ing services company songs selected by people ing pain, not only with volve both thoughts and Engineering and Maths this report as it is vital ing sectors. people to study the rel- Atkins. living with persistent pain medicines but also with feelings.” Translink will Affordable Warmth pilot a roaring success Housing Minister Nelson McCausland has visited one of the Affordable Warmth not be privatised scheme pilot teams in Cookstown. Transport Minister, Danny Kennedy has said that he will not support any plans to The Affordable Warmth my Department. The Af- ronmental science gradu- the energy efficiency of privatise Translink. pilots are currently un- fordable Warmth pilot is ates who are carrying out low income households.” The Minister was re- Northern Ireland is going success.” strongly support. The derway in two areas in a unique approach deliv- the surveys.” The Department for sponding to an Assembly from strength to strength. Turning to the Commit- fact is that a large part Northern Ireland. The ering energy efficiency He added: “Having Social Development motion on the Committee Passenger journeys are tee’s proposals for com- of the Ulsterbus network first one is in Mid Ulster improvements to homes met the project officers is working in partner- for Regional Develop- rising at significant rates petitive tendering and and parts of the Metro council cluster of Cook- in small concentrated and team co-ordinator ship with the councils ment’s Inquiry into and last year alone rail franchising of the exist- network are unprofitable. stown, Magherafelt and areas using a targeting involved in the Mid involved and the local Comprehensive Transport journeys were up by ing network the Minister Translink uses profits Dungannon and the sec- tool which has been de- Ulster pilot, I was very Housing Executive of- Delivery Structures. 800,000 and bus jour- said: “I must say I was from the well-used routes ond one in Newtownab- veloped by the University impressed with their ded- fices to target and deliver Danny Kennedy said: neys by 300,000. In fact very surprised by these to cross subsidise the un- bey Borough Council. of Ulster. This targeting ication and enthusiasm. energy efficiency im- “I was very disappointed I expect passenger jour- recommendations. It is profitable routes, many of The pilots involve a team tool identifies those Project officers have car- provements to house- that this report was sub- neys to increase by over important that the Com- which are in rural areas. of Project Officers call- homes most at risk of fuel ried out almost 1,100 sur- holds most affected by ject to media comment one million this year, mittee explain the differ- “What’s more, while it ing at people’s homes to poverty. veys so far and are well fuel poverty in the area. before the Assembly had potentially exceeding 80 ence between privatisa- may be worthwhile for complete surveys to see “The pilot schemes in on target, having called Householders in the a chance to debate it. million. tion and franchising. In private operators to gain if they qualify for energy Mid Ulster and New- with hundreds of house- two pilot areas can find Headlines such as ‘pri- “Reviews of punctual- the 2011 Transport Act, some cost savings in the efficiency improvement townabbey have been a holders to date in both out more information on vatisation of Translink’ ity, reliability and cus- which was passed by the short-term through reduc- measures. success. The pilot will these areas to achieve this the Affordable Warmth cause concern and anxie- tomer performance show Assembly, a clause was ing staff numbers and During his visit to the offer energy efficiency impressive success rate. scheme by contacting ty for staff, particularly in that Translink is meeting included that most public pension provision, in the Mid Ulster cluster team, measures and energy “The results of this the following numbers: these times of economic the standards set for it. transport services would long run this could be dif- the Minister said: “Tack- advice to over 1,200 pilot project will shape 028 86762205 for the uncertainty. With so many positives, continue to be provided ficult to sustain because ling fuel poverty is a key householders and has the Department’s future Mid-Ulster Pilot and 028 “It is important to note it is important that we by NITHC/Translink. of the number of unprofit- priority for the Northern created employment and approach to tackling fuel 90340140 for the New- that public transport in continue to build on this “This is something I able routes.” Ireland Executive and experience for nine envi- poverty and improving townabbey pilot. R Tully Plumbing and Heating Need help with gas installations and repairs? gas conversions, central heating installations, un- Look to R Tully Plumbing and Heating. With free derfloor heating and much more. estimates on request, they can look after all your When it comes to gas installation and repairs, plumbing needs! experience is vital. The leaks, or even explosions, Having been in the business for many years, R are the result of bad gas work. 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