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The team at JMK Solicitors and the staff at CRASH Services have donated a total of £46,024.48 to their 2024 charity partner NI Hospice and Children’s Hospice this December. Both businesses have thanked staff at both businesses for the incredible fundraising efforts of their entire team and their commitment to supporting NI Hospice and Children’s Hospice to allow them to provide specialist palliative care to the babies, children and adults living with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses and their families during the most challenging times of their lives.
Speaking on behalf of NI Hospice & Children’s Hospice, Corporate Fundraiser Kelly Roulston said “We cannot thank CRASH Services and JMK Solicitors teams enough for their generous support. Seeing the hard work, the two teams have put into raising such an amazing figure is truly inspiring and will help us to continue providing our essential palliative care services to those who need our help the most.”
The CRASH Services and JMK Solicitors teams are steadfast in supporting their chosen charity each year with a Charity Committee dedicated to organising fundraising events and initiatives. Throughout 2024 the committee organised participation in several events and challenges, including abseiling down the Europa Hotel, a breakfast morning, a lunchtime quiz, the 3 peaks hiking challenge, Hillsborough Running Festival and a Dragon Boating competition on the Lagan in September. Staff have also donated a regular amount each month from their salaries to the Hospice.
Jonathan McKeown, Chairman of JMK Solicitors and CEO at CRASH Services, expressed his gratitude to the work of the staff at NI Hospice and Children’s Hospice to support and care for babies, children and adults who are adjusting to life, living with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. He said, “Each year, our staff nominate a charity that is close to their hearts. This year our team felt it was important to concentrate our efforts on raising funds to support the crucial palliative care services of NI Hospice & Children’s Hospice. Over the past year, the collaborative efforts of JMK and CRASH personnel have raised over £46,000 through dedicated fundraising, participation in a wide raangfe of events as well as donations from their salaries. We hope this amount will make an impact to the important work the Hospice carries out in our communities.”
To find out more about NI Hospice and Children’s Hospice, how you can avail of their services, or to help in their fundraising efforts, visit www.nihospice.org
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Planning permission has been granted for an extension to the popular Bridge Bar in Newry. Known for its live music at weekends The Bridge is a busy venue on the Trevor Hill strip in the city.
Plans involves the erection of a ground floor extension and alterations to the existing licensed premises involving the re-configuration of some internal walls.
The extension area to the right of the front of the bar will be used as a seating area, a wheelchair WC and a servery servicing the outdoor beer garden.
Only minor changes will be made to the outward look of the bar situated within the Newry Conservation Area with an existing roller shutter door replaced with 3 wooden framed windows.
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Social enterprises are the heartbeat of our communities, driving innovation and creating positive social impact. To celebrate their contribution and build stronger connections, Fringe Coffee Co., Go Succeed NI and Newry and Mourne Co-operative and Enterprise Agency have organised a social enterprise Virtual 'Bus Tour' Networking Event for Thursday 16 January 2025 from 12:30 - 2pm
If you are a social enterprise and would like to take part please register at www.glistrr.com
The virtual visit will begin with a short tour of the Fringe Coffee Company roastery in Rostrevor 'Where the Mountains of Mounre Sweep Down to the Sea'. followed by a live discussion / Q&A session with Christa, Kadie and Bri the young American founders of Fringe Coffee Company.
Fringe Coffee Co. based in Rostrevor have a mission to create quality roasted coffee that helps empower people on the fringes of society. Locally through social initiatives and internationally through partnerships with sustainable living programs across the world!
This unique event promises to be an inspiring journey through the world of social enterprise, providing an opportunity to learn, connect, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference.
Listen to engaging stories from a local social enterprise about their journey, challenges, and successes. Use the event to connect with other social entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community champions to exchange ideas and forge valuable partnerships.
It's also an opportunity to discover creative solutions and strategies that are transforming communities and industries and learn new insights from a sectoral trailblazer that is driving social and economic change.
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Despite the closure of Veritas stores throughout Ireland this month, the Veritas store in Newry remains in business and will continue to trade from its location on The Mall in Newry. The last Veritas shop south of the border closed last Friday in Dublin.
The shop situated in the building that formerly contained The Newsroom bar is owned by Newry Cathedral Parish. It is very much a local shop despite having the Veritas connection. Manager Eugene McAlinden was in charge when it opened in 2012 and staff member at that time, Gail McGeeney is the current Manager. The popular Café Krem is also on site and is busy from early morning.
Gail explained "We've been here 13 years, and we're the last one left on the whole island. When we first opened there was ten Veritas stores in Ireland and now there's only one. There was also one in Lourdes but it has closed also."
The shop while initially concentrating on religious goods has branched out in recent years. They have Irish language cards, dual language books. Irish interest books and publications from local authors. Gail added "I think what sets us apart is that we have all these Irish gifts and religious gifts and wedding gifts, but we also have a lot of books as well. Spiritual, Catholic books, Bibles. We can personalise candles for your weddings, for your christenings, Holy Communion, Confirmation's coming up. We've a lot of lovely Irish words in frames down there from Wild Goose. Then you have all the basics, like candles, rosary beads etc."
Religious books include publications from Joyce Mayer and Joel Osteen as well as the more traditional material for the readings on Sundays and the Missals. There are plenty of Children's books themed towards religion, spirituality, kindness but also Irish based books for the kids.
It is hoped that the print part of the Veritas business will get back up and running in the next few weeks with talk of a potential buyer taking over.
Currently the shop is offering 20% of all Christmas stock. With St Brigid's Day, Candlemas Day and St Patrick's Day coming up and Communion and Confirmation on the horizon the staff will certainly be kept busy.
You can find Veritas at 40-41 The Mall in Newry.
Check them out at www.facebook.com
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Resonate Testing, a Newry-based engineering company, has marked a significant milestone with the launch of Ireland's first battery testing facility, representing a £475,000 investment that will create five new jobs.
The groundbreaking facility, which was officially opened during a visit by Economy Minister Conor Murphy, will provide certified lithium battery testing services for various industries, including eBikes, electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and the space and medical sectors.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Murphy praised the development as a significant boost for the region. "This pioneering new facility is a significant development for the north which will strengthen our position as a leader in advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and green technologies," he said. "The new facility will play a crucial role in supporting the growing demand for battery innovation and safety testing."
The state-of-the-art facility features an explosive and fireproof chamber, multiple battery abuse test rigs, a preparation area, and robust sensor equipment. The investment is expected to increase the company's turnover by 50% by June 2026.
Tom Mallon, Director at Resonate Testing, highlighted the significance of the expansion: "This new battery testing facility marks a significant milestone for our business, positioning us at the forefront of the rapidly growing rechargeable battery sector. Through mechanical and environmental testing, we can ensure product adequacy in the severest and most demanding environments."
The company's commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations, with plans already in place to generate 100% of its own energy. The investment has been supported by Invest NI, which has worked with Resonate Testing since its establishment in 2015.
The timing of this development is particularly significant, as the UK and Europe face increasing pressure for stricter regulatory testing of lithium batteries, especially regarding transportation via aircraft and courier services. This presents substantial opportunities for Resonate Testing to establish itself as a leader in this growing sector.
For more information about Resonate Testing and their services, visit www.resonatetesting.com
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Clanrye Group has launched a Get Work Ready programme for individuals who are unemployed and ready to enter the workforce or those who are currently employed but looking to enhance their skills and career prospects.
The programme is available across the Newry, Mourne, and Down Council area and offers essential IT training to help participants learn basic online skills, including setting up email accounts, creating CVs, job searching, completing online application forms, and even building a LinkedIn profile. Additionally, the programme includes a variety of workshops aimed at building confidence, improving communication, and preparing for interviews—helping to overcome the common barriers to employment.
Speaking on the programme Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Cllr Pete Byrne said: “Getting help from the experienced staff at the Clanrye Group can make a big difference in finding the right job. They understand what each person needs and can guide them in the right direction. NMD Labour Market Partnership would encourage you to get in touch to discover how Get Work Ready can assist you.”
The project is Funded by the Department for the Communities, Labour Market Partnerships (LMP)
Liam Devine, CEO of Clanrye Group, expressed his confidence for the programme: “We’re proud to launch Get Work Ready, a programme that truly meets the needs of our community. Whether you’re going into the workforce for the first time or looking to advance your career, this initiative provides practical, hands-on support to help you succeed. At Clanrye Group, we are excited to see the positive impact this programme will have across Newry, Mourne, and Down and we encourage individuals and employers to get in touch to find out how our team can help you today.”
To register your interest for the programme, call us on 028 3089 8119 or visit www.clanryegroup.com
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A significant new economic model has been launched that will help harness the benefits of the All-Ireland economy, Economy Minister Conor Murphy has announced.
The model, developed through collaboration between the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) and the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR), with support from Ibec, provides valuable insights into the north's economic landscape.
The initial findings highlight the importance of the all-island economy while demonstrating the north's vital connections across Ireland, Britain, and international markets.
The new model highlights our distinctive economic position - operating within the UK's fiscal system while maintaining EU Single Market access for goods under the Windsor Framework. This dual-market position, combined with participation in the Common Travel Area, creates unique opportunities for economic growth.
Projections from the model indicate Northern Ireland's GDP growth is expected to average 1.2% annually over the medium term, performing slightly better than the wider UK, partly due to stronger export growth supported by Irish demand and favorable EU trading relationships. The all-island economy is projected to grow at approximately 2.2% per annum.
The research demonstrates how increased government investment could enhance productivity and stimulate private sector growth in the north. Additionally, the model shows that the north's economy appears less sensitive to UK interest rate changes than the rest of the UK, while benefiting from positive spillover effects from growth in the Irish economy.
"This is a robust new model that will help us better understand and reap the benefits of the All-Ireland economy," Minister Murphy stated. "It will inform our decision making in developing All-Ireland clusters in high-productivity sectors and emerging technologies."
The Minister highlighted the model's practical applications for current trade arrangements. "It will help us assess the operation of the Windsor Framework and maximise the benefits of dual market access," he said.
Looking ahead, the research will play an important role in economic planning, particularly regarding productivity performance and investment opportunities. "In an uncertain world, the research report will provide our policy makers with further tools to assess any future economic shocks and policy changes," Murphy explained.
Read the Report at Modelling Northern Ireland within the context of the all- island economy
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Norbrook Holdings Ltd has published its first Sustainability Report, showcasing impressive environmental achievements and significant community impact across the region.
The report reveals that the Newry based company recycles a remarkable 98% of its waste, with innovative solutions even for the remaining 2% non-recyclable materials. These materials are transformed into solid recovered fuel (SRF) for use in the cement industry, providing a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels and helping reduce landfill use and emissions.
Norbrook's commitment to environmental sustainability has yielded significant results, with the company achieving a 63% reduction in carbon emissions since 2016 through its green energy initiatives.
The report also highlights Norbrook's commitment to the local community through its 'We Care' Christmas programme. This initiative saw 450 employees volunteer 2,400 hours to help local families, resulting in food and toy hampers being delivered to over 1,000 families and 1,250 meals provided to vulnerable groups across the region.
Beyond Newry the company continues to support the development of veterinary services in Kenya and Uganda, contributing to animal health and community development in these regions.
Shane Relihan, Chief Operating Officer of Norbrook said, "The Sustainability Report is a reflection of our values and showcases our long-term commitment to conducting our business in a way that will endure for generations to come. Our employees want to work for a company that is committed to doing the right thing. For Norbrook's customers and partners, this means having greater confidence in our impact and knowing that our commitment to quality and excellence doesn't happen at the expense of ethical practices. This Report is more than a milestone for us, it's a promise to our stakeholders that we will always choose to do the right thing."
The publication of this inaugural report demonstrates Norbrook's dedication to setting new industry standards while maintaining strong connections with both local communities and global partners.
For more details about Norbrook's CSR initiatives and to read the full report, visit www.norbrook.com
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Newry based businesses CRASH Services, JMK Solicitors and Granite Exchange have announced that they will be supporting Cancer Focus Northern Ireland as their chosen charity partner for 2025.
For the last 55 years, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland has supported local people on their cancer journey, working to reduce the risk, impact and outcomes of all cancers through four main areas of work: cancer support services, cancer prevention initiatives, research, and policy & advocacy.
Each year, the charity helps over 43,000 people with cancer prevention services and supports over 4,000 people across a range of free cancer support services.
Meg McKeown, at Cancer Focus Northern Ireland said, “Every year, we need to raise £4.6 million pounds to continue to deliver our vital cancer support services and corporate partnerships play an integral part in our charity’s fundraising. We can’t wait to work with the staff to help us achieve our collective goals throughout the partnership and to make a positive difference to the local people who are dealing with a cancer diagnosis in Northern Ireland."
Every day in NI, another 37 people are told the words “You have cancer”. Cancer Focus NI are opening their first Therapeutic Cancer Support Centre in Enniskillen this year. McKeown added "We can’t thank CRASH Services, JMK Solicitors and Granite Exchange enough for their support over the next 12 months, and for joining us on this exciting new journey.”
Michelle Murphy at CRASH Services said ,“Each year, our staff nominate a charity that is close to their hearts. This year our team felt it was important to concentrate our efforts on providing care and support services for cancer patients and their families, as well as cancer prevention. We are therefore delighted to announce that our new charity partner for 2025 as Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.”
Louise Mone at JMK Solicitors said, “We are committed to raising much needed funds through a series of events planned throughout the year. The team have been sponsored to run the Belfast City Marathon as well as various other internal events. Our staff also have the option to opt-in to a monthly salary sacrifice scheme whereby an amount is donated each month directly to our selected charity.”
Colleen O’Hare from Granite Exchange concluded, “We look forward to the year ahead and doing what we can to help Cancer Focus Northern Ireland in supporting local people live their most fulfilled lives with access to world-leading, equitable cancer support, treatment, diagnosis, prevention, and research.”
To find out more about Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, how you can avail of their services, or to help in their fundraising efforts, visit Cancer Focus NI
If you would like to donate to Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, click www.gofundme.com
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