Author: whatsonni

Businesses across Northern Ireland will be able to enhance their productivity and digital capabilities through a new Digital Transformation Programme, which has been announced today. 

The Digital Transformation Programme is designed to support over 1000 businesses across Northern Ireland to improve their productivity by incorporating digital technologies into their businesses and will be delivered through a range of workshops and one to one mentoring. Invest Northern Ireland has allocated over £860,000 of funds, with councils contributing £216,000, to support the Programme which will be delivered by all 11 councils.

Making the announcement Kevin Holland, Invest NI’s CEO said: “COVID-19 has strongly reinforced the importance of digital technologies and has significantly accelerated the shift to digital for businesses across Northern Ireland. The new Digital Transformation Programme will provide a platform for businesses to understand the digital options, which are available to them, plan the next steps in their digital journey and create value for their customers in an increasingly competitive economy.

“The collaborative nature of this Programme is exceptional and is a Northern Ireland wide effort across all 11 councils to support Northern Ireland businesses to drive an increase in productivity through digital transformation. The workshops will show Northern Ireland businesses how they can adopt existing and proven technologies to help them transform their business models, improve productivity and create value for customers and will appeal to businesses in all sectors including manufacturing, retail, tourism, hospitality and construction.”

The Programme, which will be rolled out in summer 2021, will also offer almost 200 businesses with the highest potential for digital transformation an opportunity to be selected for one to one digital innovation mentoring. The mentoring will explore how their business can adopt digital technologies to deliver transformational change with the completion of a Digital Acceleration Plan. 

Jacqui Dixon, of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, which is the Council administering the Programme said: “The Councils are delighted to have secured this funding from Invest Northern Ireland. Delivery of the Digital Transformation Programme is strategically significant for the region.

“It will accelerate the adaptation of technology by SME’s to improve productivity and shows the determination of Northern Ireland’s eleven councils and Invest NI to re-build the economy through partnership. The Programme will equip and guide businesses to develop Digital Acceleration Plans with the support of public sector.” 

The Digital Transformation Programme is part funded by Invest Northern Ireland and the European Regional Development Fund under the Investment for Growth & Jobs Northern Ireland (2014-2020) Programme.

Belfast Book Festival makes a welcome return from 10 – 13 June with an online programme of live events for book lovers, covering everything from love and politics to Cinderella as a zombie! 

Presented by the Crescent Arts Centre, highlights of the festival include Annie Macmanus (BBC Radio 1) unveiling her debut novel ‘Mother, Mother’ which is set in Belfast; Ian McElhinney (‘Derry Girls’) and literary biographer Roy Foster exploring the work of Seamus Heaney; Glenn Patterson (‘The Northern Bank Job’) in conversation with author Conor O’Callaghan; Colm Tóibín (‘Brooklyn’), reading from ‘Queer Love: An Anthology of Irish Fiction’ and a special recorded performance fromthe official poet of the 2012 London Olympics, Lemn Sissay.  

For up and coming writers and poets, there will be discussions with industry professionals from the worlds of poetry, prose and publishing about how to get your work seen and heard, and the lucky winners of the Mairtín Crawford Awards for Poetry and Short Story 2021 will also be announced. 

This year’s festival covers a wide variety of themes – including feminism, grief, family, disability, sexuality, body image and the care system – and features writers based in Ireland, the UK, Germany, France and the United States.

Setting the scene for this year’s Belfast Book Festival, Sophie Hayles, Chief Executive of the Crescent Arts Centre which programmes and manages the event, said:

“One of the silver linings of the past year is that many people have rediscovered a love of reading in lockdown.  This year’s Belfast Book Festival embraces that spirit with a superb line-up of writers, poets, authors, thinkers and doers.

This year’s event will have a really open and interactive feel, with tickets being priced at either £3 or free and audience members being able to ask questions of their favourite writers.  Our guests will join us virtually while our event hosts will stream their discussions live from the Crescent.”

Multi-award winning author and Belfast Book Festival patron Lucy Caldwell returns with short stories of love, loss and exile in her new collection, ‘Intimacies’, in the company of fellow author Louise Kennedy (‘The End of the World is a Cul de Sac’) andactor and journalist Mira Sethi (‘Are You Enjoying’).  

Offering an enthralling dissection of love, commitment, power and privilege in contemporary Hong Kong, Naoise Dolan will discuss her debut novel ‘Exciting Times’ in the company of author Joanna Walsh (‘Seed’) and chair, journalist John Self. 

Over 90 poets, authors and playwrights – established, emerging and first-time – have come together to create ‘Her Other Language: Northern Irish Women Writers Address Domestic Violence and Abuse’, an anthology which aims to raise the ongoing issue of domestic violence and abuse, and shine a spotlight on women’s writing. Editors Ruth Carr and Natasha Cuddington will introduce the project and host readings from six of the contributors. 

Born in County Longford, but now based in Berlin, Adrian Duncan is a visual artist who originally trained as an engineer.  This man of many talents will join author Wendy Erskine to discuss his debut collection of short stories, ‘Midfield Dynamo’.  

In Northern Ireland’s centenary year and in a turbulent time for unionism, two of our most respected political journalists – Susan McKay and Amanda Ferguson – come together to discuss Susan’s new book, ‘Northern Protestants: On Shifting Ground’.  Featuring over 100 new interviews with people including Toni Ogle, Dawn Purvis and Sammy Wilson,  the book covers a range of social justice issues and campaigns, particularly the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights. 

If you’d like a little bit of escape after all that reality, ‘Magical Realism in Modern Literature’, a partnership with Dublin Book Festival, features an enviable line-up of panellists including Jan Carson (‘The Fire Starters’), Deirdre Sullivan (winner of the An Post Irish Book Award for Young Adults 2020) and Cathy Sweeney (‘Modern Times’), with writer, spoken word performer, journalist and broadcaster Peter Murphy in the chair. 

Our stories about ourselves are one of the main things that define us, but what about the stories of children in care?  In partnership with Barnardo’s NI, ‘Understanding Our Stories, Understanding Ourselves’ looks at the psychological nature of storytelling, with guests who have either personal or professional experience of the care system: poet Lemn Sissay, journalist Alex Kane and psychologist Dr William Coman. 

There are events for younger audiences too, with children’s author and poet Joseph Coelho reading from his deliciously creepy take on Cinderella – ‘Zombierella’ – while the team from Young Adult literary journal ‘Paper Lanterns’ will discuss ‘Writing the Teen Voice’. 

Best-selling author Elizabeth McCracken (‘Here’s Your Hat What’s Your Hurry’) has been a great influence on poet and essayist Molly McCully Brown and her new work ‘Places I’ve Taken My Body’, so we thought we would bring them together to have a chat about it, with chair, broadcaster Marie-Louise Muir. 

Women’s bodies in Ireland have been a topic of debate for generations.  Author and poet Doireann Ní Ghríofa (‘A Ghost in the Throat’) and writer and podcaster Sophie White (‘Corpsing: My Body and Other Horror Shows’) write about the subject with aching honesty and humour and join chair, journalist Aine Toner, to share their experiences. 

In addition to the June event, Belfast Book Festival is also planning a number of year-round events, featuring artists including author Bernard MacLaverty, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Paul Muldoon and Elizabeth Day, presenter of the hugely popular podcast, ‘How to Fail’.Further details of these events will be announced soon. 

For full Belfast Book Festival programme details and to book tickets – priced either £3 or free – visit www.belfastbookfestival.com 

The Belfast Book Festival is supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Belfast City Council. 

Add a touch of glamour to your getaway

From the cities to the countryside to the coast, Northern Ireland offers stunning 4 star and 5 star accommodation – each redefining luxury in its own way with an abundance of outdoor activities, shopping, adventure and history around every corner. 

If you’re looking for sophisticated short city breaks in particular, you are guaranteed to find that touch of luxury in Northern Ireland, even on a budget. After all, we deserve some quality time with our friends and family, so what better way to treat ourselves than planning an indulgent pampering trip, while supporting our local tourism industry and rediscovering Northern Ireland’s giant spirit.

If you would like to add a sprinkle of glamour or a dash of urban razzle-dazzle to your getaway, here are some of the ritziest city spots in Northern Ireland.

Belfast’s Bright Lights

5* Merchant Hotel

While its former life as Ulster Bank HQ may set off an array of banking metaphors and idioms, let’s vault over those and talk about how the Merchant Hotel (5*) has a dazzling mix of Art Deco chic and Victorian pomp that will leave you awe-struck. This hotel’s stunning luxury spa, fine dining menus and glorious afternoon teas will confirm this as the best escape plan ever planned. High above, you can use the rooftop gymnasium and enjoy panoramic city views as you work out. And with the Cathedral Quarter on your doorstep, your will find yourself in the heart of the city. https://www.themerchanthotel.com/

5* Fitzwilliam Hotel

Awarded Five Stars by the AA, The Fitzwilliam Hotel is a super-elegant masterpiece located beside the Grand Opera House. With 146 fabulous guestrooms and suites, incredible food, a much-loved bar and exceptional  service, this hotel is booming with elegance as the design redefines what hotel chicness is all about. https://www.fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.com/

4* Malmaison Hotel

This one-time seed warehouse is one of Belfast’s landmark buildings, just a short walk to Titanic Quarter, Cathedral Quarter and Victoria Square. This intimate hotel boasts 62 individually designed bedrooms with all the Malmaison ingredients – including plasma screen TV and DVD/CD player, drench showers, naughty nibbles and exclusive toiletries. In addition, there are two rock n roll ‘Samson and Goliath’ suites with free standing baths, gas fires, Bose sound systems and even a purple baize pool table in the Samson suite. A bright and stylish brasserie serves classic French bistro style cooking and locally inspired dishes. https://www.malmaison.com/locations/belfast/

4* Grand Central Hotel

If you’ve a head for heights, and a taste for luxury, how about a stay in Northern Ireland’s tallest hotel?  The most recent addition to the Belfast hotel scene, it is based in the Linen Quarter and comes complete with a Bistro, Seahorse Restaurant and 23rd floor rooftop cocktail bar, The Observatory.  It is the highest bar in all of Ireland with views across Belfast and beyond. The art deco nods, high ceilings and sense of space add a distinctive drama. https://www.grandcentralhotelbelfast.com/

Harrison Chambers of Distinction

The Harrison Chambers of Distinction Belfast are restored, landmark Victorian merchants’ residences dating from 1879 designed to serve the culturally curious traveller. Each of the 17 rooms combines pieces collected by owner Melanie with the very best facilities that the 21st-century traveller demands and expects. Huge bay windows, antique furniture, sumptuous velvet curtains and bathtubs in the bedrooms combine elegance with underlying mischief and tongue-in-cheek humour lurking beneath. Eccentric curios and surprises await to delight around every corner. https://www.chambersofdistinction.com/

5* Rayanne House

Venture to the Belfast suburbs for the best balance between city centre access and room to move. The Victorian elegance of Rayanne House (5*) in Holywood is a boutique 10-bedroom gem and private restaurant with spectacular views over Belfast Lough. Its ‘Titanic Menu’ has achieved global renown; a nine-course recreation of the dinner served to the First Class passengers on board the great Belfast built ship. https://rayannehouse.com/

Behind the Derry~Londonderry Walls

4* Bishop’s Gate Hotel

This listed building built in 1899 boasts stunning Edwardian architecture which has been sensitively restored in homage to its rich heritage. An iconic landmark with a unique history, the hotel is an intimate urban oasis featuring 31 luxurious guestrooms, fitness area, The Wig and Gown Champagne Bar and Restaurant and the Hervey Library. You will follow the footsteps of some illustrious visitors to the hotel, among them Winston Churchill, Field Marshall Montgomery and poet W.B. Yeats. https://www.bishopsgatehotelderry.com/

4* Shipquay Hotel

Overlooking the Old City Walls and Derry’s famous Guildhall, this Grade 2 listed building is luxurious and intimate. With 21 bedrooms, many with views over the city’s famous landmarks, delicious food and wine in the restaurant and moreish cocktails in Lock & Quay Bar, Shipquay oozes personality, character and style throughout. https://www.shipquayhotel.com/

*All accommodation featured has been through Tourism Northern Ireland’s certification process and hold the We’re Good to Go industry standard which shows they have agreed to comply with Covid-19 safety guidelines.

For more information on great places to visit when it is safe to do so, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.

Visitors should be sure to check availability directly with each provider and to be aware of each venue’s cancellation policy when booking.

Dog-friendly accommodation offerings Northern Ireland

With staycations on the horizon this summer what could be more ‘pawfect’ than embracing Northern Ireland’s Giant Spirit with your four-legged friend coming along for the journey?

During the past year, more people than ever have been welcoming some furry friends into their family, with a surge in the number of puppies being bought across Ireland. For many of these pups, this year’s staycation will be their first time staying away from their home and owners may be fretting about the logistics of taking short breaks with their beloved pets.

Across Northern Ireland visitors can find warm and welcoming pet-friendly accommodation. From private dog cabins to special dog treat menus, to an array of walks and trails to explore, destinations across Northern Ireland are ‘ruff’ and ready to welcome guests and their four-legged loved one.

Discover Northern Ireland has put together the ultimate list of dog-friendly destinations for all the family to enjoy.

County Antrim

Dunamoy Cottages & Spa (4*), Ballyclare

• Dunamoy cottages are hand-built stone cottages, renovated from 200-year-old farm buildings nestled between Ballyclare and Ballymena on the Causeway Coast. These self-catering cottages comes with living area, TV, Freeview, DVD, bathroom with bath and shower attached, fully equipped country kitchen and dining area. For timeout for you, check out their luxury spa offering.   https://www.dunamoy.com/

Fullerton Arms (4*), Ballintoy

• Voted NI Dog-friendly Bar of the Year in 2016 and 2017, this guesthouse, bar and restaurant where old meets new is no stranger to a wagging tail. Fresh decor, decadent menus and casual yet friendly table service. With three of its ten deluxe bedrooms designated dog-friendly, this comfy, modern guesthouse appreciates that your pet is part and parcel of your holiday experience and stock tasty dog treats behind the bar for post-walkies rewards. The Fullerton Arms is also in an ideal location for exploring Game of Thrones® locations and Ballintoy Harbour. https://www.fullerton-arms.com/

County Armagh

Ballydougan Pottery Courtyard Cottages, (4*), Portadown, 

• At Ballydougan Pottery Courtyard Cottages there are a number of cottages to choose from – Bramley Apple Cottage, Wheat Loft Apartment, Gaskins Grove, Dobsons Corner and Potters Cottage – all of which are pet friendly. There’s on-site pottery where you can try your hand at throwing a pot or two – can you resist throwing a food bowl for your four-legged friend? Located in a quiet, rural area convenient to Lough Neagh, there are also opportunities for dog walking at nearby Craigavon Lakes. http://www.ballydouganpottery.co.uk/cottages/

Belfast

AC Hotel Belfast (4*)

• Bring up to two pets per bedroom to this riverside city centre hotel and enjoy contemporary bedrooms with thoughtful touches of luxury such as king size beds and Nespresso coffee makers. Explore Belfast on foot or paw with Titanic Belfast, City Hall, and the shops of Victoria Square a short walk away. Why not visit dog-friendly bars such as Pug Ugly’s or the Dirty Onion? https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bfsac-ac-hotel-belfast/

County Down

Gracey’s Barn, (4*), Newry

• Gracey’s Barn offer luxurious and comfortable self-catering accommodation a stone’s throw from the beautiful Mourne Mountains & Slieve Gullion. There’s a two-bedroom refurbished barn for you, and a separate utility for your pet to sleep adjacent to your rooms, as well as generous private parking, a fully contained garden for your dog to roam freely, and a BBQ area. Babysitting can also be arranged on request and there is availability for additional sleeping facilities with a double sofa bed. http://www.graceysbarn.co.uk/

County Fermanagh

Ashbrooke House (5*), Enniskillen

• Who says a five-star Georgian House and a four-legged friend can’t mix? Located on the 1000-acre Colebrooke Estate with endless walks and trails on offer as well as art courses, horse riding, yoga retreats and a decadent hot tub for guests. Ashbrooke House presents self-catering and catered accommodation options, sleeping 16 in eight luxurious bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. This discreetly private stately home is surrounded by beautiful landscape with rolling hills and a charming river. https://www.ashbrookehouse.com/

County Londonderry

Beech Hill Country House, (4*), Londonderry

• Beech Hill Country House Hotel, gloriously situated between woodland, lakes and tranquil well tended gardens, and just a short distance from the Walled City of Derry, is famed for its warm welcomes and fine food. With a dedicated pet policy best suited to the most well-behaved (and adorable) pets, you can bring your cat or dog to stay in their spacious suites and they can roam around 32 acres of woodland freely. There’s even a cheeky Pawsecco or Doggy Beer on arrival, along with a special blanket, treat and water bowl just for your pet. Dog grooming and a pet walking service are available for an additional fee. https://www.beech-hill.com/petpolicy

County Tyrone

Finn Valley Cottages, (4*), Strabane

• Finn Valley self-catering cottages range from one bed to four bed lodgings, are tastefully decorated throughout, accessible for guests with limited mobility and offer a long list of amenities from BBQ area to playroom. Each cottage has a self-contained utility room perfect for your pet. With hillwalking and trails through the Sperrin Mountains, there are plenty of outdoor pursuits to keep your dog entertained and exercised. The cottages have fabulous views and easy access to local facilities like fishing (salmon and trout in Rivers Finn and Mourne), cycling and golfing for your peaceful, rural based holiday. https://finnvalleycottages.com/cottages/

*All accommodation featured holds the We’re Good to Go industry standard which shows they have agreed to comply with Covid-19 safety guidelines.

For more information on great places to visit when it is safe to do so, visit www.discovernorthernireland.com.

When planning and visiting, please check visitor guidelines and opening times with individual providers and always follow current COVID-19 travel restrictions, available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/coronavirus-covid-19.

GUY Martin when interviewed by the BBC Northern Ireland has confirmed he intends to be at this year’s Armoy Road Races which highlights the high regard the top riders have for this testing three-mile road race.

Bill Kennedy MBE Clerk of the Course at the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club said he was thrilled to hear the news. He said, “Guy Martin has always been a great supporter of the Armoy Road Races and raced at Armoy up until 2015, thereafter he occasionally competed in classic and classic superbike races.

“We know that Guy would love to be back at Armoy and riding in the Classics race, but we also understand that his diary this year is pretty packed, including trying to achieve 300mph on a motorbike amidst a few projects the timing of which we believe have not been confirmed yet.

“Like all things Guy, until he’s on the boat and heading to Armoy, or even driving into the paddock, just before the races, we’ll not know for sure. However, his intention to race at the 2021 Armoy Road Races will be a great boost for the spectators and the Club.”

Guy who won the Torquetronix Superbike Race in 2015 for Tyco-BMW Motorrad Racing has previously said “It’s a right well organised meeting” and he “always tries to fit the Armoy in” but if he does race this year, he’ll be racing in the Senior Classics as opposed to racing in the Superbike or Open Races.

Bill continued; “To date, we are doing very well for race entries but we’ve some time yet. All entries are required to be in by the closing date Monday 28^th June 2021. Likewise, our spectator passes, which we launched last month, due to the pandemic restrictions are also going well. We know that there are many keen to attend the event, and also keen to understand the restrictions but the only thing I’ll say, particularly in this ever-changing world, is that the Club will be doing its very best to run these races and do so, safely.

“We understand there are lots of questions and to that end we have a frequently asked question page, where we address riders and spectators’ questions as best as possible. We’ve less than three months to the races and circumstances could very well change again – we’ll just have to wait and see.

“What I do know is that everyone is behind us, we’ve been working on the course already and we are finalising sponsors as I speak, although I think that’ll take a few weeks longer. There’ll be racing in Armoy on Friday and Saturday, the 30^th and 31^st July and the likes of Guy Martin in the mix is very welcome news indeed.”

For more information visit www.armoyroadraces.com or search for ‘AMRRC’ on Facebook or follow on twitter @ArmoyRoadRaces.

15 April – 8 May 2021

VIEW THE SHOW

Online at gallery545.com – always open

Open at Gallery 545 at Blick Studios, 51 Malone Road, Belfast BT9 6RY – on

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 10.30am-5.30pm from 30 April

(30 April, 1, 6, 7, 8 May, no booking required)

EVENTS

Virtual Tour Live on Instagram @gallery545online – Saturday 24 April, 2-2.30pm

Meet the artist at Gallery 545 – Saturday 1 May, 2-4pm

‘Wander Lands’ features award-winning artist Lisa Ballard. It presents her recent body of work, a series of atmospheric paintings inspired by landscapes she encountered in Ireland and around the world and her emotional response to them.

Ballard depicted enthralling distant or closer views of beautiful natural scenes. Leaning towards abstraction, but holding on to figurative elements, the paintings are a journey taking the viewer to towering mountains, majestic glaciers, rocky deserts, trees on hills and along sea coasts. While recollecting memories of countries she visited, the artist was drawn to the temporal in the landscape, and she captured in her works her experience – visual and emotional, of being in that moment and place. Ballard used the landscape to explore her fascination with colour and light. She intuitively played with brighter and more subdued hues, and applied washes, oil and spray paint to recreate the colours observed under the light of a particular time of the day or season. She also evoked the feelings arisen in her by the landscapes and their atmospheres – a sense of peace and calmness or animated liveliness.

The paintings were created through and reflect this artistic process – a series of diverse evocative semi-figurative natural scenes, all with a unique colour palette and light, suggesting joyful or serene moods, but also expressing the pleasure of the act of painting.

This solo exhibition is curated by Francesca Biondi, Art Director at Gallery 545 in collaboration with Lisa Ballard.

Artworks can be viewed and purchased online, at virtual private viewings or in person at Gallery 545. For enquiries, contact Francesca hello@gallery545.com / +44 7960 130414.

More online – a video tour and an interview with the artists are on the exhibition page.

Visiting the exhibition in person at Gallery 545 from 30th April when restrictions are eased. We would be delighted to welcome you at Gallery 545! There will be measures in place because of Covid-19 to keep visitors safe. The number of people allowed at the same time in the exhibition space is limited to 6. When visiting the exhibition, please wear a face mask /covering, adhere to social distancing guidelines, and leave your contact details for tracing purposes. Any updates about Covid-19 measures will be published on the exhibition page on our website. Unfortunately, there is no disabled access to this venue. https://gallery545.com/blogs/exhibitions/lisa-ballard-solo-exhibition.

About Lisa Ballard

Lisa Ballard lives and works in Belfast. She is an Associate Member of the Royal Ulster Academy, has exhibited extensively in Ireland and further afield and has won awards for her artistic achievements. Her paintings have been purchased for numerous private and public collections including those of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Ireland’s State Collection.

About Gallery 545

Gallery 545 is an online and pop-up gallery specialising in contemporary art of Northern Ireland and offering a special selection of affordable art works and fine art prints created by talented artists based here. The gallery celebrates the creativity of emerging and more established artists across the region and supports their practice providing a curated platform where they can showcase and sell their works. Having an online presence, but also pop-up exhibitions, the gallery brings art to a wide range of people with different tastes and budgets who love contemporary art, and makes it easier for them to access, discover and collect art works.

Find more information about Lisa Ballard and Gallery 545 at https://gallery545.com/.

Sunday 20 February 2022

Tickets on sale this Friday at 9am

In the 45th year since the release of his album “Spanish Train and Other Stories”, we are proud to announce that Chris will be embarking on an epic tour with his band to promote his brand new album “The Legend of Robin Hood.”

The tour, taking place in early 2022, will compromise of an entire performance of the new album plus many of his greatest hits. 

Tickets on sale this Friday at 9am:

www.waterfront.co.uk

www.ticketmaster.ie

www.cdeb.com

www.facebook.com/cdebofficial

Full Irish tour:

• Killarney, INEC: 15 February
• Cork, Opera House: 16 February
• Galway, Leisureland: 18 February
• Belfast, Waterfront Hall: Sunday 20 February 2022
• Dublin, Olympia Theatre: 22 February

Dog owners can now sign up for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Green Dog Walkers Scheme as part of its campaign against dog fouling.

The national initiative aims to tackle the ongoing anti-social problem by encouraging and supporting responsible dog ownership.

The scheme is free to sign up to and all participants will receive a Green Dog Walkers pack which includes branded dog leads, collars and poo bags.

It also encouraged dog owners to act as ambassadors by sharing spare poo bags with people who might need one for their pet when out and about.

Welcoming the scheme, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Alderman Mark Feilding said: “I am pleased to launch this new initiative as part of Council’s commitment to addressing the problem of dog fouling which exists across the Borough.

“Through its practical assistance and awareness-raising I hope we can start to see improvements. We are calling on our local dog owners to work in partnership with us to protect both our environment and our communities from this hazardous and anti-social behaviour.

“I would like to thank all our responsible dog owners who already play their part by cleaning up after their dog and I would encourage people to pledge their support to the Green Dog Walker Scheme by signing up now.”

If you would like to become a Green Dog Walker please email your name and address to greendogwalker@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk.

All those who sign up will receive a Green Dog Walker collar and lead for each licenced dog they own along with a keyring torch and approximately 50 branded poo bags. You can find out more information on our website at https://www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/live/health-and-built-environment/licensing/green-dog-walkers-scheme

Discover Northern Ireland serves up great self-catering options

It’s a land of stunning coastlines and dramatic countryside and the people are some of the friendliest you will meet. But you won’t need an epic trek to enjoy epic fun in 2021, with Northern Ireland on the doorstep.

Northern Ireland has amazing places to stay, from world-class luxurious five-star hotels to welcoming guesthouses, warm and cosy B&Bs and quirky one-off unmissable venues which have the potential to make your staycation a memorable one.

But if self-catering is what you’re after, then there are hundreds of places to choose from. In Northern Ireland, you can find adventures of all sorts, and self-catering can be the simplest and best-value way of giving you the freedom to come and go as you please.

Discover Northern Ireland has compiled a list of excellent self-catering options which have all the ingredients for the perfect staycation. Keep an eye out for the “We’re Good to Go” mark, Northern Ireland’s industry standard for tourism and hospitality businesses that are committed to operating safely so you can enjoy a visit with total confidence.

5* Willoughby Place, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh 

Willoughby Place is a 5* self-catering townhouse in the heart of Enniskillen. Built in the 1800s, the Grade II listed property has been the subject of extensive renovation to provide luxurious modern accommodation, whilst preserving its original Georgian layout and stunning period features. The house boasts three bedrooms comfortably sleeping up to six people in a mix of super king and double rooms. Features include a large reception room with an open fire and a modern well-equipped kitchen, which leads out through French doors into a charming south-facing courtyard complete with BBQ facilities. Furthermore, rather uniquely for a townhouse, the property has facilities to host a boat, and there is a public jetty at the nearby Round ‘O’, which is less than 200m away. www.willoughbyplace.co.uk  

5* Largy Coastal Apartments, Carnlough, County Antrim

This is luxury self-catering accommodation with magnificent sea views located in the second of the nine Glens of Antrim.  The three apartments are set in one and a half acres of gardens and woodland with a log cabin, a picnic area and a BBQ for outdoor dining. There is also a hot tub on the patio next to the log cabin for when you would like some relaxation.  The large spacious bedrooms are all ensuite, a modern kitchen is fully stocked with essentials while a welcome pack is provided for all guests. Offering garden or sea views, Largy Coastal Apartments has a terrace, along with a private beach area and a short walk into Carnlough town. www.largycoastalapartments.com

4* Ballygally Holiday Apartments, Ballygally, County Antrim

Set in five acres of a designated area of natural beauty opposite Ballygally beach, this is a family-run business which prides itself on high standards and a “home from home” environment. All apartments come with WiFi, a washer/dryer and widescreen TV, just some of the creature comforts on offer here – not to forget the safe play area for children on site. The business has won a host of tourism awards and all the essentials are provided. From here you can stride out on foot for a walk in the Antrim Glens themselves or take to four wheels and embark on the Causeway Coastal Route. www.ballygallyapartments.com

4* The Captains Cottage, Cushendall, Ballymena, County Antrim

The Captains Self Catering Cottage is a quaint but traditional-style cottage situated in a quiet location in Cushendall. This holiday home features a garden, BBQ facilities and free private parking as well as a fully equipped kitchen and large living area. This unique cottage features two bedrooms – one double (ensuite) and one twin that converts to a king size. Only a few minutes’ walk to the beach and village, this stay is perfect for a short family trip. https://discovernorthernireland.com/accommodation/the-captains-cottage-p725171

4* Fools Haven, Carrickfergus, County Antrim

This gem of a thatched cottage, with a historic blue plaque is over 250 years old with a strong Titanic connection. Fools Haven is where two local children, orphaned by the Titanic tragedy, were brought up. They had been sent to live there with their Aunt, when their father sailed on board the Titanic as an engineer on that fateful maiden voyage to New York in April 1912. Sleeping five with a fully modern kitchen while the outside space has a wooden BBQ hut, and a children’s playhouse, both set in a private garden. Guests receive a complimentary hospitality basket on arrival, celebrating locally sourced, quality award-winning foods. www.fools-haven.com  

4* Finn Valley Cottages, Strabane, County Tyrone

The Finn Valley luxury holiday homes in the rural location of Tyrone are surrounded by natural beauty looking out onto the Donegal hills. There are four great options to choose from, all include a wood burning stove, a free pool table and games room.  A stone’s throw away from River Mourne and River Finn where there is fantastic salmon and trout fishing, Finn Valley is also a great halfway point between Derry~Londonderry & Omagh. www.finnvalleycottages.co.uk  

4* & 5* Spice Cottages, Dungannon, County Tyrone

Four beautifully furnished and equipped cottages which have been recently converted from a former 150-year-old stone barn on a 40-acre site. They offer comfortable family sized accommodation in modern surroundings sleeping six to eight people. The kitchen/dining area is exceptionally well appointed and equipped while there is an outdoor BBQ area, new games room with table tennis facilities and various options for families and children including a stair gate, highchair, cot, kids outdoor play area and welcome pack. www.spicecottages.com

5* Scott’s Barn, Magherafelt, County Londonderry

Scott’s Barn is a luxurious country retreat situated at the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains, in the heart of Mid-Ulster. The 400-year-old Barn was restored in 2009 in keeping with its traditional style whilst incorporating all modern conveniences, including under floor heating, plasma digital TV, power shower and dual powered cooker. Sleeping five, the Barn has a luxurious open plan living, kitchen and dining area as well as its own private entrance, courtyard, and gardens where visitors can relax and enjoy. Nearby facilities include hill walking, fishing, cycling and golfing. All guests will receive a welcome pack on arrival and there is a courtyard with free parking. www.scottsbarn.co.uk  

4* Custom House, Newry, County Down

Opened in 2020, the Custom House building in Newry is just one hour from Belfast. With an unrivalled rooftop city centre location, luxury styling and superior amenities, the two bed apartments sleep four and includes kitchen, laundry room, smart TV & broadband, free parking, private balcony and room servicing and CCTV. There is plenty to explore within walking distance, such as shops, restaurants, shopping centres and much more. https://discovernorthernireland.com/accommodation/custom-house-apartments-p748481

5* The Bakers Cottages, Seaforde, County Down

Once a former bakery and fully refurbished in 2019, many of the original site features have been sympathetically restored, including the Bakers Hole well. Three beautifully furnished bedrooms sleeping six, the cottage offers views of the Mourne Mountains and the rolling fields with easy access to Belfast. The cottage is newly refurbished with WiFi throughout, wood burning stove, smart TVs with complimentary Netflix in all rooms, free standing bath in bathroom and fully equipped kitchen.

There is a private hot tub house that seats six people with a fridge, wood burning stove and bath robes/slippers provided. Sliding glass doors open out to a patio with outside seating and large lawn. A fully equipped play park will keep the kids entertained while you enjoy a BBQ looking out over the spectacular views or toast marshmallows over the fire pit. www.thebakerscottages.co.uk  

4* Clonlum Cottages, County Armagh

Clonlum Cottages are located at the foot of Slieve Gullion, on the doorstep of Ireland’s Mountain of Mystery. In these three newly refurbished cottages, guests can cosy up in front of a wood-burning stove to unwind after a day breath-taking mountain views and hikes. Snug, modern, luxuriously furnished abodes that sleep up to four people per cottage, at Clonlum guests can enjoy the BBQ and firepit area as well as privacy in its secluded setting away from main roads. This family-friendly staycation spot in south Armagh is surrounded by beauty and attractions such as Killeavy Castle, Camlough Lake and Carlingford village. www.clonlumholidaycottages.com

Northern Ireland’s Giant Welcome will be here for you to discover when the time is right to travel. For more information visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

For the latest government guidelines on COVID restrictions, visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/coronavirus-covid-19

Digital World Premiere: 8 April Available on-demand until 17 April 8pm to 8.45pm.

“The living have a way of haunting the dead” – Gilly Campbell   It is 1973 and Daughter is born to an unwed single mother from Downpatrick but who was her father? 45 years later she begins the journey to find out and discovers that the Derry man is not at all what she expected.

‘Father The Father’ was born out of Gilly Campbell’s need for catharsis in documenting her thoughts, feelings and questions surrounding the search and discovery of her father after 45 years of not knowing who he was, never mind meeting him.   At once sad and hopeful, this is just one story from the dark ages of secrecy that surrounded “illegitimate” children in Ireland. Giving a voice to those who are its legacy, this is a deeply personal tale of one woman’s relationship to her father and the questions she has always wanted to ask him.

Not an ode, but rather a woman taking ownership of the past, her identity and ultimately, her father.   Abigail McGibbon (Sadie, A Streetcar Named Desire, Everything Between Us (Irish Times Best Supporting Actress)) stars in this one-woman play brought to you by the award-winning Prime Cut Productions (Removed, Red, Scorch) and the MAC. Watch the digital world premiere online at 8pm on Thursday 8 April and on-demand until 11:59pm on Saturday 17 April.  

Filmed live in the Upstairs Theatre at the MAC.   How to book for and watch the Digital World Premiere, 8pm 8th April Click the BOOK NOW button and select Thursday 8 April as your date Select the price you wish to pay for your ticket using our ‘pay what you can’ model Follow the basket process through login and payment.

Remember to enter your mobile number if you wish to receive a reminder text link for the show Following booking, you will receive a confirmation email You’ll receive your link to watch the Digital World Premiere via email within 24hrs of show start time Click the link a few minutes before 8pm on Thursday 8 April, where the show will count down and premiere from 8pm – sit back, relax and enjoy from the comfort of your own home You will receive a separate link on Friday 9 April to watch the show on-demand until Saturday 17 April