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Sundance Film Festival among leading film industry reps set for Belfast

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Leading film industry decision makers from the UK, Ireland, Europe and the US are set to descend on Belfast this summer for a crucial networking opportunity at the Docs Ireland Marketplace.

On Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd June, leading international documentary representatives will be in attendance at the event at 2 Royal Avenue.

Now in its sixth year, the Docs Ireland Marketplace is steadily growing and attracting some of the biggest names in the global documentary film industry to meet local filmmakers and hear their pitch.

A hub for funding, sales and distribution of documentaries in Ireland and globally, the market is springboard for domestic talent, as well as welcoming international submissions.

The deadline to submit projects is Friday 19th April at https://docsireland.ie/industry/marketplace/

  • Autlook Film Sales
  • CAT&Docs
  • Conic Films
  • Documentary Association of Europe
  • Dokufest Kosovo
  • DR Sales
  • e u ROPE Doconsultancy
  • Fifth Season
  • Film Harbour
  • Finnish Film Foundation
  • INDOX Films
  • Java Films
  • Lightdox
  • Met Film Sales
  • Nordisk Panorama
  • POV
  • S4C
  • Sarajevo International Film Festival
  • SBS
  • Screen Ireland
  • Sundance Film Festival
  • SVT
  • Swedish Film Institute
  • SWR
  • TG4
  • Thessaloniki Documentary Festival
  • True/False
  • Wildcard Distribution

And more to be confirmed.

Pictures from last year’s Docs Ireland Marketplace

The Docs Ireland marketplace is the only marketplace dedicated to documentary on the island of Ireland. Docs Ireland provides an outlet for filmmakers to pitch their project through carefully matched meetings organised by the festival’s industry team. Previous projects have gone on to screen and win awards at Sundance, Hot Docs, IDFA, LFF, Venice and Telluride, with Chloe Abrahams’ The Taste of Mango going on to win the British Independent Film Award (BIFA) for Best Debut Documentary.

Docs Ireland Head of Industry, Roisín Geraghty commented: “We are excited to welcome leading industry delegates from the Irish and international documentary industry players to Belfast this June to participate in the fifth Docs Ireland project marketplace. The marketplace continues to go from strength to strength each year, providing an opportunity for filmmakers to meet one-to-one in carefully curated meetings with decision makers and consultants from the world of non-fiction.”

Docs Ireland is supported by Northern Ireland Screen through the Department for Communities, Belfast City Council, Screen Ireland and BFI/Film Hub NI, and is proudly sponsored by TG4, BBCNI and Yellowmoon.

Pictures from last year’s Docs Ireland Marketplace

Transport Through the Ages

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North Down Museum recently opened a new exhibition, ‘Trains, Boats and Planes’, exploring and celebrating modes of transport through objects from the museum’s collection. The museum’s collection possesses a wealth of paintings and artefacts relating to transport and the curated display is a celebration of the movement of people by rail, sea and sky.

Visitors can see an array of artistic interpretations of magnificent vehicles, from the Coronation Scot train to the de Havilland Rapide aircraft flying over Bangor, to tall ships and warships in Bangor Bay. Many of the items have been put on display especially for the exhibition, offering a unique opportunity to view them.

Highlights include paintings by Bangor-born artist Norman Whitla and original travel and tourism posters that were issued by British Railways to promote Bangor in the 1950s.

Speaking about the exhibition, North Down Museum’s Manager, Arlene Matthews, said: “This exhibition highlights the huge impact that transport has made in shaping the history of our borough. Transportation has facilitated the growth of industry and opportunity in our towns and villages and continues to play an essential part of our daily lives.”

‘Trains, Boats and Planes’ is open in North Down Museum’s Long Gallery until Sunday 16th June. Admission is free.

For more information, visit: www.andculture.org.uk.

Jonathan Magee, Museum Assistant and curator of North Down Museum’s new ‘Trains, Boats and Planes’ exhibition, pictured with ‘Rapide’ over Bangor, a painting by Bangor-born artist Norman Whitla.

Four Star Pizza Calls on NI Public to Nominate Their 999 Heroes

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Four Star Pizza is calling on the Northern Ireland public to nominate members of the emergency services that they feel they have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their job.

The ‘call to action’ comes on the back of the popular Irish-owned pizza chain’s sponsorship of the prestigious 999 Hero award at this year’s Spirit in Northern Ireland Awards, an annual awards ceremony that honours inspirational people from across Northern Ireland.

Four Star Pizza CEO, Colin Hughes, who hails from Lurgan in County Armagh, said: “We are very proud to sponsor this year’s 999 Hero award and would urge everyone in Northern Ireland to show their support for our amazing emergency services by nominating anyone they feel has gone that extra mile in carrying out their already vital work.”

“While there can only be one winner of this very special award, we at Four Star Pizza see it as a salute to all those individuals and teams who, on a daily basis, selflessly serve our communities and show such bravery in the face of adversity to help save lives.

“As a company deeply rooted in local communities, with franchises in towns across the island of Ireland, we offer our heartfelt gratitude, on behalf of all our customers and staff, for our emergency services’ extraordinary acts of courage and sacrifice, and we are honoured to help celebrate their resilience and unwavering dedication.”

‘They are the true embodiment of heroism and, as an honest company always striving to be better, their stories serve as beacons of hope and inspirations for us all.”

Last year’s 999 Hero award was won by all-volunteer canine search and rescue charity K9 Search and Rescue NI for the bravery shown by its handlers and rescue dogs in proving certified search and victim recovery canines for coastal, urban, rural and disaster response.

Other award categories at the Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards, in partnership with Ulster Bank, include Unsung Hero, Charity Champion, Caring Spirit, Community Hero, Eco Champion, Young Carer, Overcoming Adversity, Spirit of Health, Spirit of Education, Spirit of Youth and Spirit of Sport.

A star-studded line up is expected to attend the ceremony which will be hosted by UTV’s Pamela Ballantine and Cool FM’s Pete Snodden at the Culloden Estate and Spa in Cultra on Friday 14th June.

Last year’s event was supported by a host of famous faces, including Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody, singer Tony Christie, Hollywood actor Ciaran Hinds, entertainers Christopher Biggins, Linda Robson, Debbie McGee, plus Oscar winner James Martin and Emmerdale stars Natalie Ann Jamieson and Dominic Brunt.

Anyone wishing to nominate a member of the emergency services for the 999 Hero award, sponsored by Four Star Pizza, should send an email to spiritofniawards@sundaylife.co.uk, proving some information on the person(s) they are nominating and why they deserve to win.

Closing date for nominations is Sunday 12th May. 

Four Star Pizza CEO Colin Hughes, Director of Marketing Sean Scott and Director of Operations Ciara Kellett are calling on the Northern Ireland public to nominate members of the emergency services that they feel have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their job.
Four Star Pizza CEO Colin Hughes is calling on the Northern Ireland public to nominate members of the emergency services that they feel have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their job.

Belfast to Welcome Little Amal with Free Family Events This May

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Free tickets are now available for a series of free family events in Belfast from Thursday 16th May to Sunday 19th May to welcome world-renowned creative project ‘Little Amal’ – a signature event in Belfast City Council’s Belfast 2024 programme.

‘Little Amal’ is a striking 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee who represents all children fleeing war, violence and persecution.

Presented by The Walk Productions, in association with Handspring Puppet Company and local partner ArtsEkta, she will arrive in Belfast by boat on Thursday 16th May – the first stop in a unique all-island collaboration.

Following her visit to Belfast, Little Amal will make her way to Newry, Mourne and Down where she will cross the border before finishing her journey in Dublin, with details of events to welcome her in these locations to be announced in due course.

The Belfast portion of her visit will be the first major event for Belfast 2024 – the city’s biggest ever creative and cultural celebration, which is now well underway with projects, activities and workshops encouraging residents to get creative over the next eight months.

Just like her previous visits to New York, London and other locations, Little Amal’s itinerary during her Belfast stay will be shaped by community input, led by Arts Ekta and Belfast-born creative director Des Kennedy, who are delivering the programme on behalf of the council.

Her spectacular arrival, via the River Lagan, will be followed by a free outdoor performance at Custom House Square (Thursday 16th May, 7pm-8pm, doors closed 6.30pm) where Little Amal will be met by the Seahorse and the Wolf – two ancient heraldic symbols of Belfast. They will take her on a time-travelling journey through the city’s history in a unique show, co-created with local residents, brought to life by a cast of professional and community performers and featuring music from acclaimed composer Neil Martin.

On Friday 17th May, after a busy day spent meeting with community, school and faith groups and exploring the city, including some of the city’s peace walls, Little Amal will seek sanctuary in St. Anne’s Cathedral. It will be the venue for an evening of original music and art as the cathedral is transformed into a celestial world, with community choirs, local musicians and performers delivering a united message of hope to help Little Amal feel at home (performance 8pm-10pm, doors closed 7.45pm).

Artists have worked with refugee women and community groups to create a handmade patchwork quilt, featuring over 100 individual designs, which will be gifted to Little Amal before she beds down for the night. Following a bedtime story, the cathedral will come alive for ‘Amal’s Dream’, an immersive projection show showcasing original music from leading artist Katie Richardson.

Tickets for both the Custom House Square and St. Anne’s Cathedral shows are available to book now at artsekta.org.uk (limited to four per person).

On Saturday 18th May, Little Amal will travel to C.S. Lewis Square in east Belfast (7pm-8.30pm, doors closed 6.30pm), where she will step through the wardrobe to explore Narnia with Lucy and Mr Tumnus at a free outdoor show suitable for all ages.

Following ‘Do Not Disturb’ – a tree planting event on Sunday 19th May at Colin Glen Forest Park in the west of the city (11am-12pm, doors 10.30am), inspired by Ciaran Carson’s poem ‘Belfast Confetti’ – Little Amal’s final stop will be the slopes of Cave Hill (Beann Mhadagáin).

There, she will explore the city’s mythological roots at the Four Treasures of Tuatha (7pm-9pm). Visitors will enjoy drumming, music, dance and a fire ceremony as Tuatha Dé Danann – the people of the goddess Danu – come to life to offer Little Amal gifts of earth, air, water and fire to ‘protect’ Amal on her onward journey to Newry and Dublin.

Tickets for the C.S. Lewis Square and Cave Hill shows are also available to book now at artsekta.org.uk (limited to four per person).

All other public events in Belfast during Little Amal’s visit do not require a ticket to attend.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “This is a really impressive line-up of events, which combines grassroots, community-led activities with the very best of our local arts scene, to create a packed weekend of events, with something for everyone to enjoy.

“ArtsEkta and The Walk Productions have put together a vibrant, colourful showcase of Belfast which speaks to our city’s past and our shared stories, as well as our bright future and our growing diversity. I would encourage everyone to check out what’s available to enjoy as we welcome this spectacular event. Come along with your friends and family and be part of what promises to be a very memorable experience in this special year for our city.”

“Over the last number of months, we been working with residents and artists across the city to co-create a spectacular programme of events to welcome Little Amal in May,” said Nisha Tandon OBE, Chief Executive of ArtsEkta. “We are inviting everyone to join us in the celebrations, which will see every corner of the city come alive with music, dance, theatre and art to help Little Amal learn about Belfast’s people, stories and heritage.”

David Lan, producer of The Walks Productions, said: “I’m thrilled Amal will be visiting Belfast, Newry, Dublin and places in between. Wherever she goes, crossing borders, making new friends, bringing strangers together, she adds a little to the well-being of the world, even in these especially dark times.”

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Valeria Harte, stated: “We look forward to giving Little Amal a warm welcome to Newry, Mourne and Down as part of her inspirational journey between Belfast and Dublin.

“Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is delighted to be involved in this all-island initiative and for our residents to have the opportunity to hear Little Amal’s message of hope and empathy. We can’t wait for Little Amal to learn about our diverse community as she shares her story and will be sharing details of how and where to join in with ‘Walk with Amal’ in our district in the coming weeks.”

Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Daithí de Róiste, said: “Little Amal is a symbol of hope, goodwill and international human rights and we are delighted to show how warm an Irish welcome can be when she visits Dublin city this May.”

A wide range of free activities and workshops have been taking place across Belfast during March and April as part of the Belfast 2024 programme.

Among the other projects underway are The Hearth, a film-making project co-created with the people of Belfast; Wild Belfast, exploring the city’s unique and hidden biodiversity; 9ft in Common, looking at the potential of 202km of local alleyways and Roots, a cross-community production combining gardening and contemporary dance and centred on the city’s peace walls.

To learn more about Belfast 2024 opportunities coming up near you, visit: www.belfast2024.co.uk

Little Amal pictured in Staten Island, USA.
Little Amal pictured in Toronto, Canada.

New Immersive Visitor Experiences Showcase Belfast Maritime Mile’s Heritage

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Visitors and locals can experience Belfast Maritime Mile’s heritage in brand-new ways for free this week as part of the Belfast HUB-IN project.

Six local creative and digital businesses, artists and innovators were awarded £120,000 from Belfast City Council to collaborate with heritage organisations and communities and develop innovation prototype visitor experiences to animate and enrich the city’s iconic Waterfront.

Three of these experimental projects will be showcased this week and people can try out a range of experiences powered by artificial intelligence, augmented reality and virtual reality.

Chair of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, Councillor Christina Black, said: “HUB-IN is helping to nurture exciting new relationships between Belfast’s heritage and creative industries sectors, communities and businesses along the Maritime Mile, and supporting people to develop valuable entrepreneurial and digital innovation skills. It’s fantastic to see these proposals come to life along the Maritime Mile.”

Kerrie Sweeney, Chief Executive of Maritime Belfast Trust, added: “Maritime Belfast Trust is committed to delivering an iconic waterfront for Belfast. This project is where heritage and innovation collide – an outdoor Heritage Lab of unexpected surprises! It’s fantastic to see young creatives working with some of our oldest communities on innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality, to provide new ways to explore our rich maritime heritage and stories along Belfast’s Maritime Mile. This is only the start of a pilot initiative and we are looking forward to building on its success in the future.”

Today, Wednesday 10th April between 12pm and 3pm at the Linen Lounge, Belfast Metropolitan College, Titanic Campus, visitors can try out ‘Maritime Echoes: An AI Voyage to the Past’ developed by local innovator Darin Smyth. Using the power of AI and Unreal Engine 3-D software, pivotal historical figures from Belfast’s rich maritime past, including Mary-Ann McCracken, Lord Pirrie and William Ritchie will be brought to life.

Between 1.30pm and 4pm at the Dock Café, Titanic Quarter, visitors will get an exclusive preview of interactive 3-D virtual reality rooms developed by Flax & Teal in partnership with the Public Records Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI). The virtual reality experience will give people a unique perspective on the Belfast waterfront area’s evolution by showcasing the stories of past generations through images, video, audio and historic maps.

And this weekend between 5.30pm and 8pm on Friday 12th April and 12noon and 4pm on Saturday 13th April, visitors can call into St. Joseph’s Church, 9 Princes Dock Street, Sailortown, to discover ‘Memory Anchors’ – a collaboration between digital artist Katya Solomatina and the Sailortown Regeneration Group which aims to preserve the heritage and local stories of sailor town through interactive digital sculpture and storytelling. Visitors can see virtual art pieces developed using augmented reality and listen to stories created by the Sailortown community.

A new Treasure Hunt Quest will also run from Saturday 13th April to Saturday 31st August. Starting on Donegall quay, visitors can use their mobile phone to follow the route towards Sailortown and sicker hides virtual objects created by the Sailortown community.

The projects are supported by the Belfast HUB-IN (Hub of Innovation) programme developed by Belfast City Council’s City Innovation Office in partnership with the Maritime Belfast Trust, to explore how digital innovation can help to sustain, enhance and preserve the Maritime Mile’s rich and unique heritage.

For more information, visit: www.belfastcity.gov.uk/XRbelfast and www.smartbelfast.city

Chair of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, Councillor Tina Black is pictured with local innovator Darin Smyth and Jenna Crymble, Marketing and Digital Content Officer, Maritime Belfast Trust.

NI Primary Schools Invited to Embrace ESB Science Blast

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ESB Science Blast, delivered by the RDS, has opened applications for its 2024 event due to be held at the ICC in Belfast on Tuesday 4th June. The event is a free, all-Ireland, and non-competitive educational programme for primary schools, that involves the whole class investigating the science behind simple questions, such as ‘Is Weetabix a better glue than Pritt Stick?’ Classes then showcase their work at one of the three national events. Each class will be paired with a STEM expert to assess their investigation and share positive feedback.

The STEM-focused education programme for primary school children encourages critical thinking and collaboration in a fun environment. Primary school teachers of Key Stage 2 class pupils are invited to submit their applications before the deadline, Friday 12th April.

Recent research, conducted by the RDS, has found that over 98% of primary school teachers who participated in the 2023 event said it ‘increased students’ confidence and knowledge in STEM’, while 96% said that taking part ‘enhanced the science and maths curriculum in the classroom.’

Speaking at the launch, Niamh De Loughry, Deputy Chief Executive of the RDS Foundation, said: “In developing ESB Science Blast, we wanted an event that would be informative, inclusive and, above all, provide a really fun and engaging learning experience. Feedback from the schools involved over the last number of years shows that ESB Science Blast is delivering where it matters most, in the classroom, so I would encourage as many primary schools as possible from across Northern Ireland to register for this year’s event and really embrace the STEM challenge.”

Paddy Hayes, Chief Executive of ESB, added: “ESB Science Blast encourages the positive exploration of science, technology and engineering in primary schools and ESB is proud to work with the RDS on this unique initiative. I look forward to seeing the energy, the excitement, and the celebration of curiosity during ESB Science Blast, Belfast at the ICC in June.”

Conor Irving, P6 teacher from St Theresa’s Primary School, said: “We are really looking forward to participating in this year’s ESB Science Blast event. Being able to enjoy STEM subjects in such a fun and engaging way really helps our students appreciate how science and technology underpins so much of our daily lives.”

Firefighters Paul Murphy, Niamh McFaul and Martin Harris from Springfield Road Fire Station (Belfast) joined the P6 pupils to help work on their chosen project…Is Weetabix a better glue than Pritt Stick?

Belfast Lord Mayor Meets Young Entrepreneurs

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Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy has met with six early-stage entrepreneurs from the Good Friday generation taking part in a Young Enterprise NI (YENI) USA Connect mission to Boston and New York this week, funded by United States of America Embassy in the UK.

For over thirty years, Young Enterprise has developed young people’s entrepreneurial skills and ambition to support the entrepreneurial thinkers, leaders and founders of the next generation.

The Lord Mayor said: “It was a pleasure to meet these Young Enterprise Fellows before they embark on their trade mission to our Sister City Boston, and New York. They represent a brand-new generation of entrepreneurs here, who grew up in a more peaceful society, and are committed to building an inclusive, entrepreneurial economy here.

The delegation comprises:

Leon Gibson, board member of Friends of Young Enterprise Northern Ireland, a 501(c) organisation that supports Young Enterprise’s work through US links. From 18-21 years of age, Leon built several nightlife businesses, which continue to run and host over fifty-thousand attendees annually. Leon has since completed a business degree at Queen’s University Belfast and has been investing in deep-tech start-ups through the Creator Fund.

Dr Pragya Sharma, founder of Gran Lab, began her journey in Delhi, India, specialising in Biochemistry and Medicine. With a Doctorate focused on novel drug targets, she now leads Gran Lab in developing steroid-free dermatological solutions for adult psoriasis and paediatric eczema. Pragya is now in the process of bringing this to market and building a biotech export and has been supported through Belfast City Council’s business programmes.

Jordan Graham, founder of Sugar Snap, is a YENI board member and Ambit programme participant. Name-checked during the Presidential speech in Belfast to mark 25 years of the Good Friday Agreement, Jordan’s business is a food sector-specific marketing agency which provides strategy, design and content creation for successful local food eateries and larger clients.

Eva-Jayne Doherty is a community builder in the Irish start-up ecosystem. A committed supporter of entrepreneurs across the island, she has headed up national tech accelerators, pioneered programmes to inspire the emerging generation of entrepreneurs with Young Enterprise NI, and nurtured a community of founders to create scalable, investable businesses. Amongst her fractional support for start-ups, Eva-Jayne is currently working with the AwakenHub, a community of women founders in Ireland, and Regionally Ventures, a national investment service providing capital for regional growth.

Peter Gileece, founder of Vikela Armour, has developed a novel method of layering composite materials using a unique 3-D printing process to produce lighter, stronger and more personalised body armour/protective solutions and has already started taking orders from customers.

Maebh Reynolds, founder of GoPluggable, allows owners of home electric vehicle chargers to rent out their chargers to improve accessibility, affordability, and convenience for customers.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy has met with six early-stage entrepreneurs from the Good Friday generation taking part in a Young Enterprise NI (YENI) USA Connect mission to Boston and New York this week, funded by United States of America Embassy in the UK.

Belfast to Host Prestigious Oireachtas na Samhna Festival In 2025

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Excitement fills the air as Belfast gears up to welcome the prestigious Oireachtas na Samhna festival from October 29th to November 2nd, 2025. This historic event, known as the oldest Irish language and arts festival on the island of Ireland, is set to draw in crowds of up to 10,000 participants and spectators, marking a significant cultural milestone for the city.

Belfast City Coucil proudly announced the successful bid to host the event, highlighting the city’s vibrant Irish language community and its pivotal role in securing this prestigious occasion. Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, expressed his enthusiasm, emphasising the event’s potential to have a lasting legacy for generations to come.

“As a council, we are committed to celebrating the cultural significance of language, including Irish, to communities and highlighting the importance of ensuring languages are used, and nurtured, for both present and future generations.”

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy

Oireachtas na Samhna is a celebration of Irish language, arts, and traditions, offering a diverse program of events including competitions, debates, film screenings, workshops, and awards ceremonies. With all activities conducted in Irish, the festival provides a unique platform for individuals from Gaeltacht and non-Gaeltacht areas to come together, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for language and culture.

Belfast’s previous stint as host in 1997 adds to the anticipation, with the city poised to showcase its cultural richness once again. The event’s return promises to shine a spotlight on Belfast’s strengths, supporting local businesses, hospitality providers, and tour operators while highlighting the city’s appeal as a vibrant cultural hub.

Collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Department for Communities and Irish language organisations, has been instrumental in securing the event, underscoring Belfast’s commitment to promoting linguistic diversity and cultural heritage.

As preparations for the festival unfold, a comprehensive program of events is being curated, promising an enriching experience for attendees. Additionally, a dedicated team of Irish speaking volunteers will be enlisted to ensure visitors feel welcomes and supported throughout their stay in Belfast.

Representatives from Oireachtas na Samhna and Irish language organisations in Belfast join with the Lord Mayor of Belfast

Máirín Nic Dhonnchadha, CEO of An tOireachtas, expressed delight at the prospect of bringing the festival to Belfast, lauding the city’s exceptional facilities and unwavering support for arts and culture events.

“The quality of the venues and accommodation in the city is second to none, the support for large arts and culture events is progressive and far-sighted and we acknowledge the meticulous attention to detail of councillors and officials in ensuring the success of the bid. “

With over a quarter of a century since the festival last graced Belfast’s shores, anticipation is high for a vibrant and successful Oireachtas na Samhna in 2025.

As Belfast prepares to host this prestigious event, anticipation builds for what promises to be a celebration of Irish language, arts, and culture like no other.

 

By Natasha Nelson

Surfer Recalls Dramatic Rescue as RNLI Volunteers Celebrate 200th Anniversary

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Northern Ireland’s stunning coastline is not without its dangers, but thanks to the dedicated volunteers of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), countless lives have been saved over the past two centuries. Recently, these unsung heroes gathered at Belfast Harbour to mark the RNLI’s remarkable 200-year milestone, showcasing the ongoing commitment to safeguarding those at sea.

Among the brave crew members representing various lifeboat stations were Russell McGovern, Johnny Gedge, Jack Irwin, and James Gillespie from Bangor, alongside Phillip McNamara from Donaghadee, Molly Crowe from Portaferry, Andrew Lynas from Newcastle, and Mark McCullough from Kilkeel. These individuals embody the spirit of selflessness, volunteering their time to ensure the safety of others.

Image from Nigel Millard’s book The Lifeboat: Courage on our Coasts

The RNLI’s impact is staggering, with volunteer lifeboat crews and seasonal lifeguards collectively saving an astonishing 146,277 lives during the organisation’s storied history. In Northern Ireland alone, lifeboats have launched over 9,000 times, resulting in 1,535 lives saved and countless more aided in distress.

One such individual rescued by the RNLI is Matthew Best from Lisburn, whose harrowing surfing incident serves as a testament to the organisation’s unwavering dedication. Struggling in the water, Matthew’s life hung in the balance until RNLI lifeguard Annie Jagoe sprang into action, orchestrating a rescue that ultimately saved his life.

Matthew vividly recalls the moment his life changed forever on June 5th. While surfing with friends at Benone Beach, he suffered a severe spinal injury, leaving him paralysed from the shoulders down.

‘I knew straight away I had broken my neck, but I could still move my shoulders. It was at that point I thought this is it, and I thought about my family and my poor mum when she would get the news.’

Miraculously, with the help of a friend, he was brought ashore where Annie and her team swiftly intervened, stabilising him until medical help arrived.

Image from Nigel Millard’s book The Lifeboat: Courage on our Coasts

Following nine hours of spinal surgery and a gruelling rehabilitation process, Matthew defied the odds, eventually returning to the waves with Annie by his side. His remarkable journey from tragedy to triumph stands as a testament to the RNLI’s impact, providing hope and inspiration to all.

RNLI Trustee Paddy McLaughlin reflects on the organisations enduring legacy, expressing gratitude to those who have contributed to its success over the past two centuries.

‘It is an honour and a privilege to see and be a part of this lifesaving organisation as it reaches its bicentenary. For a charity to have survived 200 years based on the time and commitment of volunteers, and the sheer generosity of the public donating to fund it, is truly remarkable. It is through the courage and dedication of its incredible people that the RNLI has survived the tests of time.’

In commemorating 200 years of service, the RNLI not only honours its past but also inspires future generations to carry the torch of lifesaving into the next century and beyond. As we reflect on the RNLI’s remarkable journey, let us celebrate the countless lives and the countless more yet to be rescued, buoyed by the unwavering spirit of volunteerism and the power of the community.

 

By Natasha Nelson

Belfast Hosts Inaugural Food Tourism Connection Summit

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Belfast played host to the first Food Tourism Connection Summit. The initial instalment in a series of gatherings uniting chefs, food and drink producers, and distributors.

Organised by Belfast City Council in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the industry event at Waterman House on Hill Street aimed to bridge the gap between hospitality providers and food producers. Its goal was to cultivate collaboration and innovation within the local food supply chain.

Councillor Clíodhna Nic Bhranair, Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee; DAERA Minister Andrew Muir and Michelle Shirlow; CEO of Food NI.

This initiative aligns with the city’s commitment to becoming a sustainable tourism destination by supporting the circular economy, minimising food miles, and attracting visitors who contribute to the local economy.

Key figures at the event included Councillor Clíodhna Nic Bhranair, Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee; DAERA Minister Andrew Muir; Paul Kane, Director of Belfast Whiskey Week and vice-chair of the newly established Food and Drink Network; John McKenna, food writer with McKenna’s Guides; and Dr. JP McMahon, chef, restaurateur, and author. Businessman and restaurant critic Joris Minne served as the Master of Ceremonies.

Rock A Doodle Doo Belfast Hot Sauce

The summit also provided local food and drink producers and distributers with the platform to showcase their products and engage in networking opportunities.

Among the participating businesses were ShortCross Gin, Hinch Distillery, Belfast Coffee Company, Blackfire Artisan Food, Papas Mineral Company, Irish Black Butter, The Daily Apron Bakery, Rock A Doodle Do Belfast Hot Sauce, and Jackson Roze.

 

By Natasha Nelson

Waterside Hospital Staff Reunite for Inaugural Reunion

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On March 1st, former and current staff of Waterside Hospital came together for the institution’s inaugural reunion, marking a momentous occasion in its storied history.

With roots tracing back to its origins as the Derry workhouse in 1840, Waterside Hospital holds a special place in the hearts of many, culminating in its relocation to the Gransha site in 1991.

Hosted at the Waterfoot Hotel, the reunion brought together 56 attendees for an evening of reminiscence, laughter, and heartfelt connections. Against the backdrop of a fork supper, attendees enjoyed a musical performance by local talent Audrey McLaughlin, adding a nostalgic flair to the atmosphere.

Agnes Diamond, Diane Parkes, Helen Nutt, Bridie Murphy, Phil Gormley, and Mary Reid

Waterside Hospital transcended its role as a mere medical facility; it fostered a sense of community and familial bonds among patients and staff alike. Countless memories were made within its corridors, from organised outings to shared birthday celebrations.

For many nurses, Waterside Hospital served not only as a training ground but as a springboard for their careers, shaping their paths in healthcare.

The reunion serves as a tribute to the enduring spirit of loyalty and friendship forged over the years. As attendees gather to reconnect and reminisce, they carry with them the legacy of Waterside Hospital – a testament to the unbreakable bonds formed within its walls.

The reunion served as more than a nostalgic flashback; it was a reaffirmation of the lasting connections that persist well beyond the closure of the hospital.

 

By Natasha Nelson

Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission Celebrates 25th Anniversary

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On March 1st, the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC) commemorated its 25th anniversary. This commemorative event brought together stakeholders to reflect on the Commission’s legacy and future trajectory.

The event attended by over 80 individuals, including current and former Commissioners, representatives from public bodies, civil society organisations, legal firms, and international partners. The event served as a platform for reflection on past achievements and future aspirations.

Julie Patterson, Rebecca Stevenson, and Eilis Haughey

Established in 1999 following commitments made in the Good Friday Agreement, The NIHRC stands as the inaugural National Human Rights Institution in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

For a quarter of a century, the NIHRC has vigilantly fulfilled its mandate, advising governments, challenging incompatible laws, investigating systemic issues, and promoting widespread understanding of human rights.

In collaboration with its counterpart in Ireland, the NIHRC addresses human rights issues spanning both jurisdictions, a globally unique endeavour.

Chief Commissioner Alyson Kilpatrick reflected on the Commission’s accomplishments, emphasising the Commission’s accomplishments, emphasising its pivotal role in effecting transformative changes to protect human rights.

Emma Osborne, Emily Mills, and Jason McKeown

“Human rights were an integral component of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement and were recognised as vital in the efforts to address discrimination, inequalities, and build a reformed, peaceful, and just society. The Commission has had an important job to monitor, advise and challenge government in pursuing this vision.”

Despite progress made, challenges persist. Kilpatrick underscored the enduring importance of a robust and independent National Human Rights Institution, vital for safeguarding the rights of the marginalised and vulnerable society. 

“The measure of a Commission for the next 25 years will continue to be when it shines light on issues affecting those who are most marginalised and when it acts in defence of the most vulnerable people in society. At the same time, we must continue to champion the commitment of universal human rights for all.”

As the NIHRC enters its next quarter-century, its commitment to championing universal human rights for all remains steadfast.

By Natasha Nelson