The Northern Ireland Executive has given the green light for further relaxation of Covid 19 restrictions from Monday 24 May, according to reports. As of Monday, hotels, indoor hospitality venues and visitor attractions will be allowed to open their doors for the first time in months, while up to 500 spectators will be allowed to […]
Arlene Foster to step down
The First Minister confirmed she was stepping down this afternoon, following challenges to her leadership.
Lynch to step down from Assembly role
“It has been an interesting and, at times, very challenging time in the Assembly.”
Parents speak out on return to school
IN LESS than two weeks, pre-school, nursery and primary school pupils in P1 to P3 will be making their long awaited return to school after Education Minister Peter Weir announced a phased reopening plan to begin from 8 March. However, parents have criticised Mr Weir’s decision, deeming it “senseless” as remote learning will come back […]
Lockdown restrictions extended until April
The Stormont ministers have agreed to extend the Covid19 lockdown restrictions until April 1. The current lockdown was planned until March 5 but Health Minister Robin Swann previously warned that these restrictions could be extended further. It is expected that a review of the measures will take place on March 18. The strict measures were […]
Students call to ‘not delay’ guidance on exams
WHILE the cancellation of all GCSE and ‘A’ level examinations has been a “relief” for many, anxiety remains rife with pupils “none the wiser” as to how they will be graded. With tight lockdown restrictions still in place, and the majority of pupils facing an extended period of remote learning, students at St Kevin’s College, […]
Protesters not sold on change of tack by mining company
NEWS the company hoping to drill for gas in Fermanagh has removed the ‘fracking’ element of its exploration licence application has been met with suspicion locally. However, the strong opposition shown in the Assembly last week to the issuing of any such licences has been warmly welcomed. Last week Finance Minister Diane Dodds, who had […]
‘Here we go again’ businesses brace for the worst
FOR Cocoon Health and Beauty owner Carmel McElroy, Stormont’s announcement came as a “knife through the heart.” Speaking to the Herald, the Lisnaskea business woman and mother-of-one revealed, “We were closed for four months and to think that now we are faced with at least another month is heartbreaking. “The short notice meant that myself […]
Pubs ‘unfairly treated’ for surge in cases
“It’s impossible to shift the blame onto them when in reality they have been closed since March.”
Theatres get go-ahead to reopen after lockdown
THEATRES and concert halls across the North have been given the ‘go-ahead’ to reopen after an announcement was made by Stormont last week. As doors reopened on Saturday, staff during the month of August will be able to return to work and make preparations for the return of live audiences and performers can start rehearsals. […]