Category: featured-3

Galgorm Partners with Natural Spa Factory to Unveil Cora Collection

Posted on by admin

Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s luxury, premier hotel renowned for its immersive experiences, has partnered with Natural Spa Factory to introduce the bespoke Cora Collection- an exclusive skin and hair brand featuring shampoo, conditioner, hand wash, hand lotion and body wash.

Aligning with Galgorm’s ethos, the Cora brand captures the spirit of the resort’s surroundings, encapsulating the natural beauty of the 450 acres of lush parklands. Nestled beside the majestic River Maine, the resort draws inspiration from the rhythmic flow of the water, and it is this inspiration that has given birth to the Cora product range.

Cora, the Irish word for weir, encapsulates the essence of the River Maine weaving a narrative that connects to the heart of Galgorm’s surroundings. The new brand encompasses the river, dancing over the weir with grace and power, embodying the dynamic harmony of nature. This energy is harnessed in each bottle of Cora, bringing the purity of the river straight to the bespoke range of exclusive products.

Designed with meticulous care, this product range is tailored for the flagship Galgorm and all properties within The Collection, including The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick and The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn. It will also be available in the facilities in Galgorm Collection’s Belfast city-centre restaurants Fratelli and Parisien.

In perfect harmony with a promise to natural, eco-conscious, and luxurious experiences, Natural Spa Factory is an independent business nestled amid the breathtaking beauty of Somerset and deeply woven into a tapestry of cultural and natural richness. Both Galgorm and Natural Spa Factory’s commitments to excellence are reflected in the creation of Cora, which has been exclusively designed to cater to the unique needs of Galgorm’s guests and visitors.

The Cora Collection is vegan-friendly and devoid of harmful chemicals, making it an eco-conscious choice for guests. From the captivating fragrance of botanical wonders to the inclusion of skin-loving ingredients like Meadowfoam Seed Oil and Shea Butter, Cora provides a sensory journey for both the skin and hair. What sets Cora apart is its universal fragrance – a harmonious blend of citrus fruit.

Tara Moore, Head of Spa Operations, emphasising the significance of this collaboration, stated: “Our partnership with Natural Spa Factory is a commitment to responsible luxury. Aligned with our sustainability ethos, Cora’s cruelty-free formulations embrace bio-based surfactants, upcycled ingredients and natural antioxidants. Cora not only revitalises one’s body and soul but also pays homage to the well-being of our planet.”

Galgorm Collection is committed to being fully carbon neutral by 2030, pledging to be the first premier hospitality group on the island of Ireland to go fully green. A refill system containing Cora products will replace individual mini toiletries in all hotel rooms and suites across The Collection, significantly reducing plastic waste.

Galgorm Collection is a major employer in the region and has a workforce of over 1,000 staff and in 2023, it also became the first hospitality group on the island of Ireland to achieve official ‘Great Place to Work’ certification based on exceptional employee experience.

Cora is featured in guest rooms, spas and bathrooms throughout The Collection, allowing guests to immerse themselves in luxury regardless of the property. For those seeking to extend the experience beyond their stay, the Cora products are also available for purchase at Galgorm’s boutique and available to purchase online at www.galgorm.com.

Galgorm and Natural Spa Factory Cora Collection Moisturising Body Wash.
Galgorm and Natural Spa Factory Cora Collection Soothing Hand Lotion and Cleansing Hand Wash.
Galgorm and Natural Spa Factory Cora Collection Hydrating Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner.

QUB Showcases The Vital Role of Arts in Conflict Resolution

Posted on by admin

Queen’s University Belfast has brought together world-leading academics and professionals for an arts and conflict resolution showcase in New York City, highlighting the vital role both play in promoting peace.

A one-day symposium reflected on the role played by artists throughout the peace process at the American Irish Historical Society. Speakers looked at those who use theatre, film and testimony to address the complex legacies of conflict that exist in Northern Ireland today.

Professor Anna Bryson from School of Law, Queen’s University Belfast was at the event and said: “A big takeaway from this event is the overlaps, tensions and shared learnings from academics and professional working in different areas. Theatre can amplify law, justice and reconciliation. Innovative theatre techniques can help us reach people about social justice, accessing these difficult concepts in a more authentic way.”

The playwright behind one of Northern Ireland’s most critically acclaimed plays, ‘Agreement’, Owen McCafferty also attended the showcase and said: “I think the arts succeed in telling the story of a society because they make it accessible. Whereas the thing itself that may seem distant, art can make it understandable; it can make it human.”

Queen’s later hosted a special performance of ‘Agreement’ as the Irish Arts Centre, preceded by an In Conversation with Queen’s alumnus and CNN correspondent Donie O’Sullivan.

Leading the showcase, Queen’s Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Sir Ian Greer, said: “Queen’s has always been a key arena for political debate, providing a safe environment for political leaders to have difficult and challenging conversations post-conflict. There are many learnings to be had, not only from experts in peace and reconciliation but also from those in the arts whose creativity to tell powerful stories can have a lasting impact on communities. It’s important as an academic institution, we look at these connected issues to better understand the complex legacies of conflict that continue to affect our communities and explore ways to share learnings on what is widely regarded as the world’s most successful peace process.”

Agreement Playwright Owen McCafferty, Director Charlie Westenra, Queen’s University President and Vice Chancellor Sir Ian Greer, Executive Director at The American Irish Historical Society Dr Elizabeth Stack and Queen’s University Dr Mark Phelan at the Post Conflict Stage and Screen in Northern Ireland symposium at the American Irish Historical Society.
Queen’s University Belfast Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer addresses audience at Irish Arts Center, New York City.

Little Amal to Join Lord Mayor’s Day Celebrations

Posted on by admin

Little Amal will be a special guest at a free family fun day on the lawns of City Hall on Saturday 18th May, hosted by Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy.

The giant puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl – the centrepiece of internationally acclaimed creative project ‘The Walk’ – is visiting Belfast from Thursday 16th to Sunday 19th May for four days of free family events as part of Belfast City Council’s Belfast 2024 programme.

After being crowned the ‘May Queen’ at Writer’s Square, Little Amal will lead a colourful parade of wildlife, nature and flowers along Donegall, Bridge and High Streets, into Donegall Place and towards City Hall, starting at 12.30pm.

Visitors to City Hall grounds can enjoy an afternoon of free family entertainment, from 12pm to 5pm, celebrating the city’s growing diversity.

Little Amal will feature in ‘Gulliver’s Egg-traordinary Tale’, a unique piece of free street theatre, created by Christina Nelson, which puts a new spin on Gulliver’s Travels and features magic, circus and music.

Families can also enjoy nature-inspired arts and crafts, henna tattoos, face painting and traditional games, and there will be live music and dance from Belfast Ukulele Jam and the South Asian Dance Academy, mummers The Wren Boys and African band Magwere. Also on offer are circus acts, walkabout performers and games and activities for older visitors as part of the council’s Age-Friendly Belfast programme.

Looking ahead to the day of events, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “During my year in office, I’ve been able to see first-hand how much Belfast is growing and changing and, as a mayor for all, I’ve been welcomed into every corner of our city.

“This is my chance now to give back and reflect back upon, as well as showcasing, the amazing talent, diversity and vibrancy our city has to offer and which I’ve been privileged to experience this year.

“I’m really excited to host Little Amal at City Hall as part of our celebrations – it’s going to be a packed afternoon of free and fun activities and everyone is welcome to come along and join in.”

Entry to the Lord Mayor’s Day event is free, with activities running from 12pm until 5pm. Capacity may be limited at times due to numbers within City Hall grounds.

For more details, visit: www.belfastcity.org.uk/lordmayorsday.

The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy, joins Dessie and Farrah Doyle, along with Arts Ekta performer Weihong, to announce details of his Lord Mayor’s Day event on Saturday 18 May, 12pm-5pm.

Anantara Spa: A New Dimension of Wellness and Relaxation

Posted on by admin

Experience the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation at the Anantara Spa at Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel.

With a commitment to providing bespoke treatments and a holistic approach to wellness, discover a sanctuary of tranquillity in the heart of Dublin’s vibrant Docklands. Open seven days a week, with flexible hours to accommodate busy schedules, Anantara Spa offers an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. A series of wellness journeys and unique experiences, including wild swimming and exclusive benefits, offers guests an unparalleled and holistic journey.

Featuring five elegantly appointed treatment rooms, a 23-metre infinity pool, and a thermal suite including jacuzzi, sauna and steam room infused with the soothing aroma of eucalyptus. Sophisticated yet minimalist interior design incorporates rich dark charcoal Kirkstone cladding and soft, deep grey tones, creating a sanctuary that feels worlds away from the commotion of daily life. Occasional bursts on vibrant colour enliven the atmosphere, offering an inviting contrast that inspires relaxation and facilitates a seamless escape from the stress of modern living.

Anantara Spa’s infinity pool.

Guests can also find serenity in a tranquil relaxation area to unwind post treatment. The fitness centre, equipped with Technogym machines, offers diverse workout options and personalised coaching sessions. Embracing Anantara’s Thai roots, the Sanskrit philosophy of ‘without end’ underscores the holistic wellness approach and bespoke spa treatments.

Treatments at Anantara Spa are infused with the spirit of ‘Nam Jai’, a core aspect of Thai culture that reflects sincere kindness and the act of helping others without expectation. This ethos permeates every aspect of the spa’s signature journeys, which are like ‘water from the heart’, designed to bestow profound relaxation and rejuvenation. Therapists create bespoke treatments to treat individual needs in harmony with two handpicked products; SEABODY, which unlocks the regenerative power of ocean algae sourced from the Irish Atlantic coastline and Elemental Herbology, an ethically-sourced line inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, centred around the five-element theory.

Anantara Spa’s relaxation area.

Paying tribute to the breath-taking landscapes of Ireland and a quintessential element of Irish culture, Anantara Spa guests are invited to embrace wild swimming as a form of exploration and therapy. Plunging into the natural waters, with its unbeatable mix of adrenaline and tranquillity, is a popular pastime in Ireland where numerous bathing spots can be found for swimmers of all abilities. For holidaymakers and business travellers curious to dip their toe into this thrilling world, Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel has curated a customisable Wild Swimming package to promote many benefits of this refreshing and invigorating activity.

The Marker Club:

A realm where exclusive access meets sublime indulgence. As a Marker Club member, each moment is tailored for pleasure – from private fitness sessions to exclusive experiences. Immerse in the Dublin community with quarterly social events and preferential access. A Marker Club membership is an invitation to a world were opulence meets authentic and personalised Irish hospitality.

For more information of The Marker Club, visit: www.anantara.com/en/the-marker-dublin/marker-club.

To book spa treatments or to contact the spa, call 01 687 5194 or email: spa.themarker@anantara-hotels.com.

One of Anantara Spa’s five treatment rooms.

‘Muldoon’s Picnic’ at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre

Posted on by admin

After a successful Irish tour in 2017, 2019, and again in 2022, as well as ten sold out seasons at the Irish Arts Center in New York, ‘Muldoon’s Picnic’ arrives at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre.

An omnium gatherum of poetry, prose and music, ‘Muldoon’s Picnic’ is a cabaret-style evening, by turns witty, exuberant and sophisticated, hosted by Pulitzer-Prize-winning poet Paul Muldoon, ‘the most significant English language poet born since the Second World War’. (Times Literary Supplement)

Each show on the tour has a bespoke mix of artists from the worlds of music and literature. The Market Place Theatre will be the venue for one of Ireland’s most beloved poets and recent TS Eliot Prize nominee, Jane Clarke. Jane will be joined by the sounds of composer and musician Colm Mac Con Iomaire, as well as internationally acclaimed author and Booker Prize winner, Anne Enright.

The title, ‘Muldoon’s Picnic’ refers to a popular 19th-century New York vaudeville act, which inspired the New York-based Irish poet, Paul Muldoon, to being hosting the carefully blended evenings of literature and music back in 2014.

Paul describes ‘Muldoon’s Picnic’ as a direct response to that ancient impulse to perform, to share, to make one’s own amusement. He said, “It’s one of our most basic instincts; to listen to a song, to listen to a poem. Even in this era when people have their noses stuck in their tablets, it still works.”

‘Muldoon’s Picnic’ will take place at the Market Place Theatre, Armagh on Wednesday 15th May at 8pm. Tickets can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

Lurgan Model Primary School Celebrates Becoming Integrated

Posted on by admin

The school community of Lurgan Model Primary School is celebrating after hearing the news that the Department of Education has approved their Development Proposal to transform to Integrated status. The school is one of 26 who have held positive parental ballots since 2019 and brings the number of Integrated schools in Northern Ireland to 72.

Lurgan Model Primary School is a well-established primary school, having educated children since 1863. The school building itself is listed as a building of great historical significance. When the school opened it was part of the ‘Model’ school system operating in Ireland at that time. As such, the school was established for all children, regardless of religion and was proudly non-denominational. This ethos was reaffirmed and strengthened when the school looked to start the process of Transformation to become an integrated school.

No school can become integrated without the consent of a majority of parents. Due to the evident parental demand in the Lurgan Model Primary School community, a democratic ballot was held in Summer 2022. The outcome of the ballot was that an overwhelming majority of 99% of the parents voted yes to the school submitting a Development Proposal to the Department of Education, including a Transformation Action Plan.

Almost two years after the parental ballot, Lurgan Model Primary School was delighted to get confirmation that the Development Proposal has been approved. The school continues to offer an excellent standard of education, as it has for over 160 years, educating around 180 pupils, who will now receive an Integrated Education.

Neil Campbell, Principal of Lurgan Model Primary School, said: “On Thursday 18th April 2024, we received written confirmation from the Department of Education that the Education Minister has approved our development proposal to transform to an integrated school from 1st September 2024.

“We are delighted at this news and thank the Education Minister for his decision. The Minister has ensured we can now plan for the beginning of the 2024/25 academic year with clarity and optimism, and we are grateful for his carefully considered approval.

“We would like to thank everyone who has supported our Transformation, especially our parents who voted overwhelmingly to formally begin this process in June 2022, the NI Council for Integrated Education (NICIE), the Integrated Education Fund (IEF) and the Education Authority’s Sectoral Support Team.

“Lurgan Model opened 161 years ago as an expressly non-denominated school for all children, regardless of religion. Our Transformation to controlled Integrated status reaffirms and strengthens our inclusive ethos as a school where all communities, cultures and backgrounds are welcomed and celebrated.

“Our little people who continue to cross our threshold every day will remain at the heart of all that we do. No matter the background they come from they will be cherished, valued and respected for who they are in an inclusive environment that nurtures empathy and understanding for everyone, in the hope of a better tomorrow.”

Tina Merron, Chief Executive of the IEF, said: “We congratulate the Board of Governors, staff and parents of Lurgan Model Primary School on their successful Transformation to integrated status. It has taken a lot of time, dedication and commitment from the entire school community to complete this process and become an integrated school. We look forward to welcoming Lurgan Model Primary School to the growing community of integrated schools across Northern Ireland.”

Roisin Marshall, Chief Executive Officer of NICIE, said: “Having worked alongside the Lurgan Model Primary School community, NICIE is thrilled that the Development Proposal to Transform to become an integrated school has been approved. We look forward to continuing to work with the school and supporting them on their Transformation journey.”

Almost every school in the country, apart from hospital and special schools, can apply to transform to Integrated status. The IEF and NICIE provide support and advice for parents, staff and Governors considering taking the first steps towards Integrated Education.

If you would like further information on Integrated Education and the process of Transformation, visit: ief.org.uk.

Pupils at Lurgan Model Primary School celebrating their successful parental ballot to Transform to Integrated status.

Augment the City Challenge Fund Now Open

Posted on by admin

The new Augment the City Challenge City Fund, led by Belfast City Council’s Innovation Office and funded by the Belfast Region City Deal, has opened for applications from local SMEs who wish to explore the future role of immersive technologies in visitor experiences.

Chair of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, Councillor Tina Black, said: “This new competition is going to bring together innovators from our creative industries sectors with our leading tourism organisations to explore how immersive technology such as augmented, virtual, and mixed reality will shape and enhance future attractions, including our highly anticipated Belfast Stories.

“Successful applicants will have the opportunity to develop and then showcase their innovative ideas and prototypes. And we’re providing state-of-the-art wireless digital connectivity to support companies to push the boundaries of what is currently possible with this technology.

“By working directly with innovators, the region’s tourism partners will be able to gain valuable insights which will help to inform the design and development of new visitor attractions.”

Professor Liam Maguire, Chair of the Belfast Region City Deal’s Digital Advisory Board and Pro-Vice Chancellor of Research at Ulster University, added: “Augment the City demonstrates a key aim of the Belfast Region City Deal’s digital pillar. It’s encouraging collaboration with some of our most exciting creative digital companies. And by doing so, it’s stimulating R&D investments in one of the region’s high growth sectors. Ultimately, such investment contributes to a more productive economy, while helping to ensure that new visitor experiences are better placed to harness digital technologies – and our visitors are more engaged.”

Minister for the Economy, Conor Murphy, said: “Today’s launch of the Augment the City Challenge Fund, funded by the Belfast Region City Deal, is excellent news. The fund offers a significant opportunity for businesses in Belfast and the surrounding region to receive crucial support to develop immersive 5G tourism products and visitor experiences which will help to enhance our tourism offering. This aligns with my economic vision which emphasises the pivotal role of investing in innovation to enhance productivity and to create good jobs. I look forward to seeing the positive impacts that the fund will deliver for the region.”

The Lord Caine, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, said: “The creative industries sector is an exciting and rapidly changing environment, and one that is crucial for the future needs of Northern Ireland’s tourism sector and economy.

“I am delighted that the Augment the City Challenge Fund, funded by the Belfast Region City Deal, which is being supported by the UK Government to the tune of £350 million, is now open. This funding will provide enormous support to local innovation businesses to develop their ideas and technologies to boost Belfast’s digital tourism. Through supporting local SMEs, we will help to ensure that Northern Ireland, as an integral part of the world’s 6th largest economy, is the best place in the world to invest and visit.”

The Challenge Fund competition is now open for applications at www.smartbelfast.city. Local businesses interested in applying for funding can find out more by registering for an online briefing event taking place this Thursday, 18 April 2024.

The Augment the City Challenge Fund is part of Belfast City Council’s XR Belfast programme which provides a range of funding, skills development and business support to people working in Belfast’s innovation and creative industries sectors to help build their capacity in using and exploiting emerging technologies.

For more information on Augment the City, visit www.smartbelfast.city or the Belfast Region City Deal, visit www.belfastregioncitydeal.co.uk

Ulster University – Virtual Production Studio.

Council Developing a More Inclusive City Through Belfast Business Promise

Posted on by admin

Over 40 organisations have now signed up to the Belfast Business Promise, embarking on their journey to become accredited and share good practice to help create a better, more inclusive city.

The initiative was launched yesterday, Thursday 11th April at Belfast City Hall, where participating organisations met to review progress made to date, and hear first-hand experience from Belfast Business Promise organisations including the Lighthouse charity; and Belfast Harbour and the Department for the Economy, who both celebrated achieving membership accreditation.

The Belfast Business Promise is designed to cultivate an ethos of responsible and inclusive business practices: fair pay, good jobs, and secure contracts. It also aims to create a community of businesses and organisations who want to hold themselves to high standards by adopting business practices which deliver added high value to society through employment, procurement and working in partnership with communities.

There are three membership tiers: Supporters, Members and Ambassadors.

Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy, explained: “The Belfast Business Promise is a key part of Belfast City Council’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable economic growth which is at the core of the Belfast Agenda, the city’s community plan. Organisationally, we’re well on our journey to achieve Member status and Ambassador status by autumn 2024.

“We know that there’s undeniable potential to deliver lasting positive social impact through a procurement policy which supports social enterprises, co-operatives and suppliers who have sound ethical practices.

“Belfast City Council became the first Real Living Wage council employer in February 2023. Our Social Value Procurement Policy also requires our contractors to pay the Real Living Wage to employees working on council contracts. We work with multiple contractors delivering major investment projects across the city, so this initiative will have a meaningful impact on Belfast’s workforce while so many navigate the cost-of-living crisis.

“We’ve made substantial progress, but so much more remains to be done. The Business Promise provides a strong platform for us to continue to work together, to deliver the city’s ambitions of becoming a truly inclusive and sustainable city.”

Department for the Economy Permanent Secretary, Ian Snowden, said: “The Belfast Business Promise aligns extremely well with the Economy Minister’s Economic Vision, which includes the goal of delivering good jobs for everyone. By focusing on issues like the Real Living Wage, ending the use of zero-hour contracts, flexible working arrangements and reducing exploitative employment arrangements, the Promise can help achieve that goal.

“The Minister’s Economic Vision also includes decarbonising the economy. Encouraging organisations to think about low or zero emissions technology, supporting the circular economy and creating climate action plans are just some of the areas where the Belfast Business Promise delivers forward thinking alignment with the Economic Vision.

“I would encourage businesses and other public sector bodies within the Belfast region to strongly consider this initiative.”

Jenni Barkley, Communications and Community Engagement Manager, Belfast Harbour, added: “We’ve found the Belfast Business Promise accreditation process very beneficial in giving us a roadmap and advice on how we as employers can support a more inclusive and sustainable Belfast.

“We’re committed to playing our part – and now we look forward to seeing many other businesses joining us so that together, we can help make Belfast a better place to live and work for all our citizens.”

Belfast City Council engaged with over 130 individuals and 30 businesses to co-design the Belfast Business Promise, which consists of eight key pledges. The pilot programme launched last April, working with 228 organisations to test and refine the model.

Key city partners Diversity Mark, Equality Commission NI, Labour Relations Agency, Social Enterprise NI and NOW Group provided specialist technical support and refined the accreditation process. Translink NI has recently joined and will help shape the approach to the core pledge to ‘Protect our environment’.

For more information and to register your interest, go to www.belfastcity.gov.uk/businesspromise

Councillor Paul Doherty, Belfast City Council, Chris McCracken, Linen Quarter BID, Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy, Jenni Barkley, Belfast Harbour and Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary, Department for the Economy, launch the Belfast Business Promise at Belfast City Hall.

Dr Sam’s Absolutely Flawless Roadshow

Posted on by admin

Belfast was the very first location for the landmark national roadshow event, Dr Sam’s Flawless Skin Tour.

Widely considered to be a beauty insider’s best-kept secret, Dr Sam Bunting is known as being one of the country’s leading experts in skin. The highly acclaimed dermatologist, who’s originally from Donaghadee, is famed for combining her expert knowledge of traditional dermatology with mainstream beauty through her work on TV and media, as presenter on TLC’s Extreme Beauty Disasters and her own dedicated YouTube channel. Regularly posting tips and tricks on how to get your skin back to its best and sharing her passion for myth-busting with her no-nonsense approach to skincare, Dr Sam has amassed an ever-growing legion of fans. Over 100 glamorous guests gathered at the Merchant Hotel for an evening with Dr Sam, which I was honoured to host. Delighted fans heard Dr Sam share her expert tips on the key to achieving individual skincare goals, the four steps to building your dream routine, and how to get get signature #GrownUpGlow. The Dr Sam’s Skincare line is now a complete, but compact, product range based on four pillars: cleanse, activate, hydrate, and protect. It targets global skin health with the right ingredients in the right combination at the right concentration to combat the signs of ageing and problem skin issues such as blemished, pigmentation, and redness.

If you’re serious about great-looking skin, head to drsambunting.com.

Nuala Meenehan
Girl About Town

To see more of our Girl About Town, check out our April issue of Ulster Tatler.

Photography by Ian Campbell.

Nuala Meenehan with Dr Sam Bunting.
Dr Sam Bunting pictured with family: Imran, Liz, Shel, Eleanor, Helen, Barry, Michaela and Sabah.
Dr Sam Bunting with her team at the Merchant Hotel.

Call to Seize ‘OpportUNITY’ to Fight Against Sectarianism and Racism

Posted on by admin

Former world boxing champion Carl Frampton joined the First Minister and Deputy First Minister today to encourage local groups and organisations to get involved in Good Relations Week 2024.

Good Relations Week 2024, co-ordinated by the Community Relations Council, will run from Monday 16th September to Sunday 22nd September with an anticipated programme of over 200 cross-community and multi-cultural events across the region.

The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘OpportUNITY’ which will showcase the action, enthusiasm and commitment of local groups and organisations in their daily efforts to foster positive community relations and promote cultural diversity across the region.

The anticipated mix of workshops, theatre productions, exhibitions, debates, and musical performances will aim to demonstrate the strength of communities working together to break down barriers and seize opportunities to make a difference by promoting peace and understanding.

Carl Frampton MBE, the former two-weight world boxing champion, said: “I’m delighted to be supporting the launch of Good Relations Week 2024. This year’s theme is a call to action for all of us to take the ‘OpportUNITY’ to continue working towards a brighter, more inclusive future where every voice is heard and valued.

“Throughout my boxing career, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to witness first-hand the unifying power of sport. I’ve seen communities come together, supporting one another regardless of background or belief, demonstrating that working together can indeed forge positive community relations.

“This experience has only reinforced my belief in the importance of celebrating the efforts of organisations and individuals that bring our communities closer together and help address important issues like sectarianism, racism, inequality, health and well-being, poverty and education.

“I encourage every individual, community group and organisation to seize this ‘OpportUNITY’ to make a difference by hosting an event during Good Relations Week 2024 and I look forward to seeing some of the amazing events and initiatives throughout the week-long celebration.”

The Community Relations Council is inviting registrations from local community groups, voluntary organisations, statutory bodies, businesses and local councils to host an event that aligns with the them of ‘OpportUNITY’ and showcase their outstanding good relations efforts.

Martin McDonald MBE, Chair of the Community Relations Council: “Good Relations Week 2024 is a call to action for all of us to work towards making a real and lasting difference by creating a future where inclusivity and diversity are not just celebrated but lived.

“This year’s theme emphasises the importance of co-operation and collaboration. It recognises the power of coming together, sharing our strengths and working as one to tackle the challenges that face us. It’s about creating spaces where dialogue flourishes diversity is celebrated and every individual can contribute to our collective progress in building a society where every voice matters.”

Jacqueline Irwin, Chief Executive of the Community Relations Council, added: “This year, with ‘OpportUNITY’ as our theme, Good Relations Week 2024 will showcase the creativity and dedication of local groups, organisations and individuals working together to break down barriers and deliver meaningful change in our society by fostering understanding and co-operation in every aspect of our lives – be it at home, in schools, in our workplaces, or in all the sports and recreation we enjoy here.

‘We will highlight the extraordinary achievements of the organisations dedicated to nurturing a shared future. It will be a chance for everyone to see and celebrate the impactful work and carried out daily across the region, and it will hopefully encourage wider participation and partnership in building a happier, safer society for all.”

For more information on Good Relations Week 2024, visit: www.goodrelationsweek.com

Pictured launching Good Relations Week 2024 is Carl Frampton MBE alongside Martin McDonald MBE, Chair of the Community Relations Council, Jacqueline Irwin, Chief Executive of the Community Relations Council, Syrian Dancer, Mar Decena, and Chinese Dancer, Weihong Tu.

Major Westminster Delegation Visits Forge Integrated Primary School

Posted on by admin

On Tuesday 26th March, Forge Integrated Primary School in Belfast welcomed a very special cross-party delegation of 20 MPs, including the Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn and the Shadow Minister Fleur Anderson, alongside South Belfast MP Claire Hanna and a number of local MLAs.

Forge is one of the longest established integrated schools in Northern Ireland, having opened in 1985 as a result of a determined effort by a group of parents. It now educates over 400 pupils in the primary and adjoining pre-school.

The special visitors were greeted by pupils and staff of the school, as well as former pupils now attending the nearby Lagan College. The young people we given the opportunity to engage with the delegation through a question-and-answer session.

Principal Neville Watson commented: “I was delighted to welcome this very special delegation to Forge Integrated Primary School today. Despite the school being closed for the Easter holidays, staff and pupils willingly gave up their time to come in and meet our special guests and I was delighted to have a few former Forge pupils join us too, many of whom have gone on to attend Lagan College for their post primary Integrated Education. A few pupils even travelled from as far away as Shimna Integrated College in Newcastle.

“Today’s visit was an opportunity to provide a glimpse into what Integrated Education is all about. There is no better way of doing that than engaging with the pupils directly. It never ceases to amaze me how comfortable and confident our pupils are when it comes to discussing what Integrated Education means to them.

“I am very conscious that Forge made the headlines recently as one of the ten Integrated schools that will no longer benefit through the Fresh Start capital programme. This was extremely disappointing news. However, Forge Integrated Primary School has proved its resilience when faced with setbacks over the years.

“Our focus has always been to provide an excellent shared learning environment where current pupils can thrive while maintaining a positive and forward-looking focus to delivering improvements, the new school project being one of many of these.

“While we deal with these setbacks, we will continue to work hard to make our school the best possible place for our children to learn and grow, so that they, in turn, can make Belfast a better place for us all, whether under an old roof or a new one.”

Paul Caskey OBE, Head of Campaign at the Integrated Education Fund (IEF), said: “The IEF was delighted to attend this morning’s event and to meet such a prestigious political delegation. It is important that representatives from across the political spectrum can have the opportunity to see and experience Integrated Education first-hand. Forge demonstrates how children and young people from all religious and cultural backgrounds can learn with and from each other. The IEF will continue to support this thriving Integrated school as it works to offer the best Integrated Education for all pupils and families in this community.”

Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn with pupils from Forge Integrated Primary School.
Alliance MLA Kate Nicholl, Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey, Shadow Secretary of State Hilary Benn, Forge Integrated Primary School teacher Denise Mahon, Forge Integrated Primary School teacher Julie Anne Foster and Alliance MLA Pauls Bradshaw.
Lagan College pupils with MP Yasmin Qureshi.
Hilary Benn and Fleur Anderson.
Westminster Delegation at Forge Integrated Primary School.

Sustainable Medium Business of the Year

Posted on by admin

Killeavy Castle Estate has been named Sustainable Medium Business of the Year at the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards 2024, which took place at the Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin on Thursday 21st March.

The awards celebrate individuals and organisations across the island of Ireland that demonstrate leadership, innovation, investment and ingenuity in the areas of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG).

This award win is testament to Killeavy Castle Estate’s outstanding contributions to sustainability in the hospitality sector.

Nestled midst the slopes of Slieve Gullion, Killeavy Castle Estate has pioneered the integration of hospitality and sustainability across its 365-acre estate since its inception. The estate’s dedication to eco-friendly practices since it opened its doors in 2019 has consistently led the way in green tourism, illustrating its commitment to sustainable operations.

The estate’s sustainable achievements include a comprehensible zero-waste food programme, a strict no single-use plastic policy, and extensive recycling initiatives, as well as investing in sustainable energy solutions throughout the hotel. Furthermore, Killeavy Castle Estate has embarked on an ambitious €1.5 million landscape restoration project in the surrounding Slieve Gullion are, demonstrating a profound commitment to environmental preservation and is on track to achieve its ambitious goal of reaching carbon neutrality by the end of 2024.

Owners, Mick and Robin Boyle, have been instrumental in driving the estate’s sustainability ethos. Their passion for conserving the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity, combined with a sustainable approach to estate management, has ensured that sustainability is woven into the fabric of everything the estate undertakes.

Accepting the award, Matthew Hynds, General Manager of Killeavy Castle Estate, said: “We are immensely proud to receive this recognition for our efforts in sustainability. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team here at the estate, and the visionary leadership of Mick and Robin Boyle.

“At Killeavy Castle Estate, we believe that sustainability is not just an initiative but a way of life. We are committed to continuing our journey towards a greener future, inspiring others in the hospitality industry to follow suit.”

For more information about Killeavy Castle Estate, visit: www.killeavycastle.com

Pictured receiving the award for Sustainable Medium Business of the Year at the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards L-R: Cristian Fierastrau, Operations Manager, Killeavy Castle Estate; Lorcan Allen, Business Editor, Business Post; Matthew Hynds, General Manager, Killeavy Castle Estate and Fidelma Boyce, Assurance Partner, PwC.