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Hundreds of manufacturing companies and supply chain experts from Northern Ireland are set to travel to Dublin this week for the 2024 National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition at RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin.

Following this major event, the same organisation will bring the Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition to the Titanic Exhibition Centre in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in September 2024.

Incorporating a comprehensive conference programme and an extensive exhibition area displaying the latest technological solutions and business services available, the 2024 National Manufacturing and Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will be held over two days on May 28 and 29.

The largest event of its kind in Ireland, the National Manufacturing and Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition serves as a national forum for manufacturers and operators involved throughout the associated supply chains from across Ireland to gather to discuss pressing issues facing Irish industry. 

As such, the Event successfully connects key stakeholders across the full spectrum of Irish manufacturing, including the food, drink, pharmaceutical, medical, chemical, life sciences and electronics sectors.

Accounting for almost a third of Ireland’s GDP and employing over 270,000 people, the manufacturing industry is crucial to the Irish economy and also helps to redress regional imbalances as more than 80% of operations are based outside of Dublin.

However, Irish and international manufacturers are currently facing serious challenges due to disruption to supply chains and markets caused by Brexit, the war in Ukraine, the situation in Gaza and the Red Sea region, and soaring energy, transport and raw materials costs. 

The Irish manufacturing industry and its associated supply chain are also trying to adapt to the disruptive changes generated by the digital revolution and the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’ (Industry 4.0).

 A new wave of advanced technologies is transforming the manufacturing landscape. These technologies include AI (Artificial Intelligence), IoT (Internet of Things), Cloud Computing, Digital Fabrication (including 3D printing), Big Data Capture, Advanced Automated and Autonomous Systems and Collaborative Robotics.

The 2024 National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will highlight the key trends and challenges facing the industry, while also offering practical solutions, as well as showcasing the latest innovations, developments in best practice and new technological advances.

The organiser of 2024 National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition, Dublin-based Premier Publishing & Events, is assembling an impressive line-up of manufacturing leaders, academics and government agencies who will engage in a stimulating blend of keynote addresses and debates. 

Visitors interested in improving the performance of their business can listen to case studies and technical presentations from leading global and local manufacturing experts, whilst also meeting with providers of cutting edge technology.

For instance, Professor Henrik Von Scheel, the originator of the fourth industrial revolution (industry 4.0) will examine the future of manufacturing in his presentation titled ‘Factory 4.0: Megatrends that shape the next decade’. Carlos Garcia Santiago, Head of AI Strategy at Irish Manufacturing Research, will discuss the changing interaction between humans and AI in the field of manufacturing during his presentation titled ‘Beyond automation: Human Wisdom in the AI Revolution’. Dr. Yasmine Daher, Project Manager CE at Irish Manufacturing Research, will aim to aims to demystify AI adoption for Irish manufacturers during his talk titled ‘AI-Driven Circularity: Insights & Opportunities for Irish Enterprise’.

Tristan McCallum, Technologist for Engineering and the Green Economy at IDA Ireland, will look at ‘How the Digital Transformation is benefiting Irish Industry’. 

Anne Bannon, Head of Healthcare & Life Sciences at AIB, will provide an overview of the manufacturing sector and the changing landscape around sustainability while explaining how AIB can assist customers in this area in her presentation –‘Supporting the decarbonisation of the Irish Manufacturing Sector’. Diana Vaz, Renewable Research Technologist at Irish Manufacturing Research, will consider ‘The Role of Renewable Energy Systems (RES) in the decarbonisation of industry’.

Adam Fox, Ireland & UK Business Development Manager at Swisslog, and Brian Cooney, Managing Director of KUKA Ireland, will deliver a comprehensive insight into the future of robotics in the logistics and supply chain industries and wider manufacturing circles during their chat titled ‘What is possible in the realm of autonomous systems? The answer, anything’.

Brendan McAuley, Director at the International Trade Institute, will look at ‘Changes in international trade and what they will mean for your supply chain’.

Engineering Industries Ireland (EII), the Ibec group representing the engineering manufacturing and services sector in Ireland, is the headline Sponsor of the annual Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition. 

As the industry membership body for engineering and manufacturing, Engineering Industries Ireland connects its members to expert knowledge, advice, and supply chain opportunities, supporting a thriving and sustainable sector to compete effectively on both national and world stages.

The National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition incorporates several complementary events – all under one roof. The co-located events include: the Automation and Robotics Event; the IOT & Industry 4.0 Expo; the Sustainability Summit; the Supply Chain & Logistics Expo; the High Tech Manufacturing & Precision Engineering Expo; the Digital Transformation in Manufacturing Event; the Pharma and MedTech Expo; and the Lean Productivity and Continuous Improvement Summit. The co-located events within the National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition are designed to show visitors how to harness new technology to improve their own business performance.

Free registration to attend the National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition is now open at https://www.manufacturingevent.com/register/ 

After last year’s tour of ‘Sense and Sensibility’, Hotbuckle Theatre Company are back with their unique style of adaptation of classic novels.

The virtuoso troupe have been entertaining audiences for over 12 years with their inventive interpretations of familiar texts and this June they are bringing ‘Pride and Prejudice’ to The Market Place, Armagh.

In this fast-paced, multi-role adaptation, Hotbuckle invites us to enter the world of the Bennets. From the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet to the proud Mr. Darcy, Hotbuckle’s rich characterisations abound in this latest piece by skilled writer Adrian Preater.

Full of humour and invention, this is storytelling at its finest, as we meet 5 sisters who deal with marriage, morality and misconceptions in unique Hotbuckle style.

This is Jane Austen as you’ve never experienced her before, so, Hutbuckle up for the carriage ride of your life!

‘Pride and Prejudice’ will take place at The Market Place Theatre, Armagh on Thursday 6^th June. Tickets can be booked online at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

Emerald Park Officially Opens Tír Na nÓg!

Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters.  €22 million euro investment in Co. Meath.  Over 65 rollercoaster enthusiasts from around the world travel to Ashbourne, Co. Meath

Rollercoasters include 5 thrilling upside down experiences.

Today, Tuesday 21^st of May, Emerald Park officially opens its first fully themed and immersive land, Tír Na nÓg. Home to Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters, ‘Na Fianna Force’ and ‘The Quest’, Tír Na nÓg promises to be a world-class entertainment destination located in Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

The opening of Tír Na nÓg marks a substantial investment of €22 million at the theme park and zoo. A first of its kind in Ireland, the 6.5 acre site will include three new attractions called Na Fianna Force, The Quest and The Celtic Dreamer. The new land will also include new food outlets, retail spaces, and an entrance that will create real excitement and wonder with Irish mythology and fantasy theming across the site.

Over 65 rollercoaster enthusiasts have travelled from around the globe to Ashbourne, Co. Meath to be the first to experience these thrilling coasters which will offer an unparalleled rush for thrill-seekers seeking the ultimate adrenaline fix!

As part of the development, Emerald Park commissioned a number of local suppliers for the theming of Tír Na nÓg. The fully themed and immersive land includes over 30 swords, 70 shields, 120 arrows, 70 spears and 15 bows hand crafted by local Blacksmith of the Boyne Valley, An Gobha, from Bohermeen, Navan, Co. Meath. Over 500 mature native Irish tress will be planted across the site with a further 50,000 plants used to create a wild natural landscape, while over 400 tonnes of shotcrete and 2,400 tonnes of concrete were used to create various mythical themed towers and buildings across the land.

This seven-year project stands as a testament to the vision of Emerald Park’s late founder, Raymond Coyle. This ambitious development embodies Coyle’s unwavering commitment to innovation and creating a theme park and zoo that would compete with its international counterparts.

Managing Director, Charles Coyle of Emerald Park, said, “We are thrilled to unveil Tír Na nÓg after seven years of dedicated work and innovation. This new addition to Emerald Park is not only our commitment to creating unparalleled experiences but also a landmark in amusement park attractions with Europe’s longest intertwining coasters right here in Ashbourne, Co. Meath”.

“The opening is a testament to the enduring legacy of my late father and founder of Emerald Park, Raymond Coyle who I know would be so proud of our team today and would have enjoyed all the madness and fun of our opening day. We look forward to welcoming guests to explore and immerse themselves in the magic of our first immersive land – Tír Na nÓg“.

Book your tickets now from www.EmeraldPark.ie

Instagram – @emeraldparkireland

Facebook – @emeraldparkirl

Tiktok – @emeraldparkireland

Pictured is Managing Director of Emerald Park, Charles Coyle at Tír Na nÒg

Today, Tuesday 21^st of May, Emerald Park officially opens its first fully themed and immersive land, Tír Na nÓg. Home to Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters, ‘Na Fianna Force’ and ‘The Quest’, Tír Na nÓg promises to be a world-class entertainment destination located in Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

The opening of Tír Na nÓg marks a substantial investment of €22 million at the theme park and zoo. A first of its kind in Ireland, the 6.5 acre site will include three new attractions called Na Fianna Force, The Quest and The Celtic Dreamer. The new land will also include new food outlets, retail spaces, and an entrance that will create real excitement and wonder with Irish mythology and fantasy theming across the site.

Over 65 rollercoaster enthusiasts have travelled from around the globe to Ashbourne, Co. Meath to be the first to experience these thrilling coasters which will offer an unparalleled rush for thrill-seekers seeking the ultimate adrenaline fix!

As part of the development, Emerald Park commissioned a number of local suppliers for the theming of Tír Na nÓg. The fully themed and immersive land includes over 30 swords, 70 shields, 120 arrows, 70 spears and 15 bows hand crafted by local Blacksmith of the Boyne Valley, An Gobha, from Bohermeen, Navan, Co. Meath. Over 500 mature native Irish tress will be planted across the site with a further 50,000 plants used to create a wild natural landscape, while over 400 tonnes of shotcrete and 2,400 tonnes of concrete were used to create various mythical themed towers and buildings across the land.

This seven-year project stands as a testament to the vision of Emerald Park’s late founder, Raymond Coyle. This ambitious development embodies Coyle’s unwavering commitment to innovation and creating a theme park and zoo that would compete with its international counterparts.

Managing Director, Charles Coyle of Emerald Park, said, “We are thrilled to unveil Tír Na nÓg after seven years of dedicated work and innovation. This new addition to Emerald Park is not only our commitment to creating unparalleled experiences but also a landmark in amusement park attractions with Europe’s longest intertwining coasters right here in Ashbourne, Co. Meath”.

“The opening is a testament to the enduring legacy of my late father and founder of Emerald Park, Raymond Coyle who I know would be so proud of our team today and would have enjoyed all the madness and fun of our opening day. We look forward to welcoming guests to explore and immerse themselves in the magic of our first immersive land – Tír Na nÓg“.

Book your tickets now from www.EmeraldPark.ie

Instagram – @emeraldparkireland

Facebook – @emeraldparkirl

Tiktok – @emeraldparkireland

The largest air show on the island of Ireland will make an action-packed return to Causeway Coast and Glens this September with a spectacular aerobatic performance from Airbourne Pyrotechnics.

The NI International Air Show 2024, organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, will welcome spectators to the seaside town of Portrush on Saturday 7^th and Sunday 8^th September for two days of aviation attractions and family fun.

To mark the return of the hugely popular event, it is moving to a new location along the coast starting from Ballyreagh Golf Course to West Bay in Portrush, offering visitors panoramic views and a chance to get prime viewing of the attractions in the sky.

The support of title sponsors, Spirit AeroSystems and Thales, leading names in the global aerospace engineering sector, marks an exciting development for the flagship event as thousands of visitors are expected to enjoy the ground and air displays.

The fast and furious Typhoon will appear on both days, demonstrating its rip-roaring power with a collection of jaw-dropping manoeuvres, along with the Battle of Britain Memorial trio of Spitfire, Lancaster and Hurricane performing their mesmerising flypasts.

Along the breathtaking coastal route, a wide range of captivating and family friendly activities will expand the entertainment offering to include an array of vintage aircraft, live music, trade stands, fun zone, artisan food markets, and arts and crafts stalls.

The exciting STEM Village sponsored by Matrix will make a welcomed return and bring together world-class local employers and education providers. These exhibits, located at Ballyreagh Golf Course, are aimed at inspiring young people to consider a STEM orientated career with interactive, fun and engaging displays and tasks.

Launching the NI International Air Show 2024, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Steven Callaghan, said: “I am thrilled to see the return of our beloved Air Show once again, following a five-year absence.

“It is one of the biggest highlights of our tourism calendar, offering fantastic aerial displays and a host of family-friendly entertainment on the ground.

“I am particularly excited about the new location this year, which will provide visitors with the best possible viewing experience as they enjoy the spectacular aerial acrobatics.”

For more information visit www.airshowni.com or NI International Airshow on  Facebook or Twitter.

Council is delighted to announce the return of the newly rebranded Rathlin Sound Festival.

Due to take place between May 24^th and June 2^nd, the 10-day festival celebrates the people, culture and heritage across Ballycastle and Rathlin Island.

Council is collaborating with Ballycastle Community Development Group and the Rathlin Development and Community Association to bring you this hugely popular celebration.

Inspired by the Rathlin Sound – the body of water connecting Rathlin Island to the Ballycastle mainland, the programme is packed full of activities on the dry-land and in the sea.

Visitors can look forward to a diverse programme of live music performances, ‘have a go’ activities, crafts, talks, wild cookery demonstrations and a number of artisans from the Naturally North Coast and Glens Market.

The festival offers something for everyone, whether you want to find out more about traditional boat making, enjoy some family fun on the beach or have a go at paddle boarding.

To add to the expanding festival, a new addition this year is the music stage in Ballycastle on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May, which will host a variety of local music performers.

Some examples of what the festival offers include blessing of the boats, traditional coracle boat making, colourful kite display and a sand sculpture demonstration on Ballycastle Beach.

In anticipation of the festival, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Steven Callaghan, said: “I am delighted to see this illustrious festival return. It has long been one of the highlights of our calendar and I am looking forward to seeing many of the talented craftsmen, musicians and artisans that we have in our Borough.”

The full programme is available on the website by visiting www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/whats-on/rathlin-sound-festival for the latest updates, or contact Ballycastle Visitor Information Centre on 028 2076 2024.

Please note, details are subject to change due to tides and weather conditions, so visitors are advised to follow the Festival’s Facebook (@RathlinSoundFestival) and Twitter (@RathlinSoundMF) channels for the most up-to-date announcements.

From incredible gothic architecture, contemporary art spaces, fascinating museums, bustling high streets and fantastic shopping centres, Glasgow has it all.

And, thanks to Stena Line, a day trip to Scotland’s biggest city has never been easier.

The Swedish-owned ferry company is inviting customers to leave their cars, and cares, at home and enjoy a hassle-free, coach trip to Scotland.

Crossing the Irish Sea in just two hours and 15 minutes, passengers can relax, unwind and enjoy the unrivalled style and comfort of Stena Superfast.

Your holiday starts the second you set foot onboard and those seeking instant relaxation are invited to take a dip in the Jacuzzi or enjoy some time out in the sauna at the Pure Nordic Spa, where day-trippers are also entitled to 20% off all treatments.

On arrival in Cairnryan, guests will travel via coach, to the heart of their destination and, when it’s time to leave, brought back to the ferry.

It really couldn’t be simpler, all that is left for you to do is to plan how to spend your day.  To help, Stena Line has compiled a list of family-friendly adventures you can enjoy in Glasgow.

Glasgow Cathedral

• One of the most famous sites in Glasgow, this stunning 12^th century gothic cathedral is not to be missed. Deep inside the Cathedral’s crypt you’ll find the tomb of Saint Mungo, the patron saint of the city and the man credited with founding the city in the sixth century.

George Square and the City’s Chambers

• Named after King George III, the square was a muddy hollow until the 18^th century when it began its transformation into what it is now – an insta worthy example of a stunning public space that’s not to be missed!

Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery

• Soak up some culture at Scotland’s oldest public museum – the Hunterian museum – with collections spanning arts, sciences and humanities. The entire collection of the Hunterian is recognised as an outstanding example of a collection of national significance and of fundamental benefit to the life and culture of Scotland.

Shop ‘til you drop in Glasgow City Centre

• Discover Glasgow City Centre’s vibrant shopping – from the pedestrianised Buchanan Street featuring all the big names you’d expect, the stunning selection of jewellers and diamond merchants in Argyll Arcade and the Instagram-worthy canopy of Royal Exchange Square you’ll find all you want in Glasgow!

Stroll in the Botanic Gardens

• Running alongside the River Kelvin, Glasgow’s botanic gardens are an ideal place to finish your day trip, take a walk or just sit on a bench and admire the beauty of over 9,000 different plants across 20 hectares of landscaped garden and tropical glasshouses.

Start your day with a great value meal from the Taste Restaurant and bag yourself a bargain in the Onboard Shop where you’ll also receive a £5 off shopping voucher if you spend at least £30.

Or simply relax and unwind in The Living Room or upgrade your trip and enjoy the luxury of the Stena Plus Lounge or the Hygge Recline Lounge.

Prices start from just £29 per adult and £25 per child for a return trip to Glasgow and take place on selected Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year.

For more information visit www.stenaline.co.uk/special-offers.

Looking for some inspiration on how to entertain your family this Spring? 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

The area of Lisburn & Castlereagh has an array of activities guaranteed to be enjoyed by all and create memories that will last a lifetime!

 

Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes:

Take the family on an unforgettable adventure and experience like no other at Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes. Best known for their popular Alpaca Trekking, where you and your family will have the opportunity to get up-close and personal and enjoy scenic peaceful countryside treks alongside these incredible animals!

High Rise Indoor Adventure Park:

Get your hearts racing and bodies moving at High Rise Indoor Adventure Park! With 24 exhilarating indoor climbing challenges as well as a range of soft play and sensory rooms providing entertainment and enjoyment for families of all ages!

Find out more by visiting: www.visitlisburncastlereagh.com

 

~ Maritime Belfast Trust launches Go the EXTRA Mile, a public celebration of the Maritime Mile ~

Belfast’s Maritime Mile is set to host a year of events and activities as Go the EXTRA Mile officially launched on Saturday 18 May.

Delivered by Maritime Belfast Trust, the charity responsible for preserving and promoting Belfast’s maritime heritage, Go the EXTRA Mile is an invitation to local people and visitors to discover more of the city’s historic waterfront and enjoy an extra mile welcome from local attractions, venues, restaurants and cafes along the way.

With over 30 events over the next 10 months, Go the EXTRA Mile is an invitation to immerse yourself in history (stand in the bottom of the Thompson Dry Dock), get active (try some Irish dancing on the Titanic Slipways), be more sustainable (ditch the car and hire a Belfast Bike), meet new people (become a volunteer) or try something new (after hours at a museum).

People going the extra mile will also be able to take part in seasonal spectacles with events planned throughout the year. Aligned to the Belfast 2024 cultural programme free Boat Building workshops kick off the festivities in Titanic Hotel Belfast on Saturday 18 May, Sunday 26 and Monday 27 May from 11am – 2pm. These workshops are open to all, whatever your age or skill level. Delivered in partnership with PS2, the workshops are part of the Water Works project, Belfast largest Boat Building experiment.

Go the EXTRA Mile will include the return of the hugely successful Sundays on the Mile. Taking place on the last Sunday of the month between 12pm and 5pm, from May through to September, Sundays on the Mile will offer free musical performances across a mix of genres. Complementing their historic locations, artists will range from professional musicians to buskers, jazz musicians to string quartets, opera to traditional music. Stops include Hamilton Dock next to SS Nomadic, Sailortown, AC Hotel on City Quays and RiverBox at the Titanic Slipways. To kick off the programme, join us at 12 noon on Sunday (19 May) at SoundYard, located on Queen’s Quay close to the Odyssey and Abercorn Marina. To hear NI Opera’s lead soprano Mary McCabe and Roving Out a lively, foot-tapping, hand-clapping folk band.

Kerrie Sweeney, CEO of Maritime Belfast Trust said: “Developing and showcasing the Maritime Mile and all that it has to offer to both locals and visitors is important to help position Belfast as an attractive international destination.

“Our campaign will help attract an expected 1.5 million people to Belfast’s Maritime Mile between now and March 2025. With such a variety of events available, there will be something for everyone to help them go that extra mile and celebrate the fantastic location and talent we have on our doorstep and learn about the importance of preserving our rich heritage.”

For full details and to download your very own copy of the Go the Extra Mile guide visit maritime-mile.com. Make sure to tell us how you are going the Extra Mile and join the conversation on Maritime Mile Facebook and Instagram using #MaritimeMile.

Link to Guide – https://bit.ly/3K54fqA