Newry Mourne and Down District Council workers will be balloted on potential industrial action after employees belonging to the four main trade unions called an emergency meeting last week amid claims of a “toxic atmosphere” between management and staff over what unions say is an ongoing failure to address a range of issues since the old Newry and Mourne Council merged with Down Council in 2014.

A vote of no confidence in the council’s chief executive, Liam Hannaway was also passed by over 200 council employees who attended Wednesday night’s meeting in Ballybot House in Newry. Mr Hannaway has been accused of refusing to meet with staff to discuss concerns over the HR department’s approach to restructuring and job matching following the council merger 4 years ago. 

Representatives from the four trade unions, NIPSA, SIPTU, UNITE and GMB, in attendance at the emergency meeting said relationships between staff and management were at an “all time low”, blaming an erosion of protected terms and conditions and a failure by the council to meaningfully engage with the unions on major issues affecting members.

Niall McNally of SIPTU said he hoped the no confidence vote “sends a message to the chief executive that the matter is grave.”

“But the real meat on the bones is the consultative ballot that our members have taken,” he added.

“Matters are very, very serious and we are requesting the management team to get around the table and start dealing reasonably.”

The ballot, which is expected to take place in the coming weeks, could lead to industrial action by council staff.

Joint Trade Union Secretary, Kim Graham of NIPSA explained that the consultative ballot will provide “evidence of how strong our members feel at this point in time about the erosion of the terms and conditions of their employment and the way the management team of this organisation handled the restructuring caused by the creation of the new super council.”

She said angry union members had called for the no confidence vote in the Council CEO from the floor at Wednesday’s meeting, with the vast majority of members supporting the action.

“There is a toxic atmosphere amongst the union members and the Management at NMDDC”, said Ms Graham.

“I have met with the NMDDC Chair, Mark Murnin, and we now plan on lobbying all parties and councillors of NMDDC to listen and understand to what is being put forward by Management.

“We are ready for a long campaign and if necessary we will be ready to put forward legal challenges.  However, if the Council Management is willing to sit down and constructively and genuinely engage with us we will be willing to do so.”

A statement issued by NMDDC following the controversial no confidence vote and ballot, insisted there is no evidence to substantiate the claims that terms and conditions are being eroded and reiterated the council’s commitment “to protecting and promoting the wellbeing of all of its employees.”

“Over the past three years we have undertaken and continue to undertake a process of engagement in dialogue with staff and trade union representatives around restructuring. It is our priority that staff terms and conditions are protected.”

The statement added, “During this process a number of new policies and procedures were agreed with trade union representatives. 

“The Chief Executive and Senior Management Team remain committed to further discussions with trade unions and welcomes continued engagement in the interests of all parties.”

A public protest by hundreds of the unions’ members is also set to take place at next month’s full council meeting in Downpatrick.

Sinn Fein councillor and former NMDDC Chairperson, Naomi Bailie, has spoken of her battle against the deadly bacterial infection, meningitis, and urged students to get vaccinated before the upcoming term.

Speaking to Belfast Live last week, the mum-of-one, who is still recovering after being struck by the deadly brain infection in December 2016 says her battle has been “hell on earth.”

The rising politician was left critically ill and was placed into a 27 day induced coma after collapsing at her home in early December 2016. She underwent six rounds of brain surgery in her fight against the “horrific and brutal disease” and, two years on the 33 year old says she is still recovering from the emotional and physical impact of the illness.

Naomi was struck with the lethal infection after what she described as the “best year of my life”, having become the first female chairperson of the new council and giving birth to her first baby, Niadh.  

Suffering a throbbing sharp headache on the morning of December 7th 2016, prompted her to make a call to husband Gerard to tell him to come home quickly to look after baby Niadh.  Returning home to find his wife collapsed on the floor, Gerard quickly called for ambulance and Naomi was treated for meningitis within minutes of arriving at the Ulster Hospital.   She was later told she would definitely have died if treatment had not been administered so quickly. 

The Sinn Fein councillor says she was “dangerously sick” and that her husband’s only hope was for her to live as he had accepted he was probably bringing his young wife home in a wheelchair with no brain function.

“That sort of detail destroys people. It definitely changed us and our families. It takes a person to the worst corners of your mind,”  she said, adding that the biggest impact of her illness has been emotionally. 

Robbed of her first Christmas with her baby daughter and unable to do the job she loved, the former council chair reveals she could not look after Niadh unsupervised for 12 months in case she suffered a seizure – an experience she describes as “hell on earth.”

Despite being left with a brain tumour, blood clots and epilepsy as a result of meningitis, Naomi, says she feels blessed to be alive and is urging students – who are particularly vulnerable to meningitis when they start university – to get vaccinated.

She also warned people to persist with their GPs if they feel something is wrong, admitting her biggest regret was accepting her doctor’s diagnosis of migraines when she knew something serious was wrong.

Now looking forward to getting back to work, the Sinn Fein Councillor hopes her advice will help somebody else avoid meningitis. 

“Vaccinations will help students who mix in large groups where disease can spread,” she said, urging students to take up the meningitis vaccination.

“My case was caused by a spinal fluid leak (CSF) and I would urge anyone diagnosed with CSF to get it repaired,” she added. 

The MenACWY vaccine helps protect against meningococcal disease, which new university students are at particularly high risk of contracting in the first weeks of term, when they will come into contact with large groups of new people of a similar age.

While 85 per cent of Year 12 students in Northern Ireland have had the jab, those who haven’t can access it for free from their GP if they are starting university for the first time.

A Meningitis Research Foundation spokeswoman said it was also important to remember the vaccine does not protect against all strains.

She added: “It’s vital for students away from home to watch out for their friends if they’re unwell.

“If they have meningitis it can be like a very bad hangover that quickly gets worse. It can be deadly, so act fast and get medical help.”

Further information is available from www.meningitis.org

With only a month to go until the mighty Cork man John Spillane brings his show to the Oriel Centre, Dundalk Gaol on Saturday 22nd September, Forkhill singer/songwriter Briege Murphy has been announced as support on the night.

A songwriter of contemporary folk with a love of Irish traditional songs, the local singer’s performances tell the story and inspiration behind her own songs and with a good dose of humour thrown in!

Such is the calibre of her songwriting that Briege’s songs have been recorded by numerous artists including Frances Black, Niamh Parsons, Aoife Scott and Don Stiffe, Anthony John Clarke, The Border Collies ,Scold’s Bridle ,The Once (Canadian National folk award winners) Sue Matthews, Maryland and many more around the globe.

With 5 albums of her own work and one of traditional music and American folk covers recorded, the renowned singer received a “Keeper of the Tradition” award for her contribution to the culture of her county and country from the late Tommy Makem and has won “Best Female Bard”, at the Bard of Armagh, a humorous poetry competition.

Briege is in big demand at national and international folk festivals and has toured New Zealand with her music. Artists of great renown have applauded her work with Christy Moore saying of her voice “Lovely singing, great songs, a joy to hear“.   Frances Black has said of Briege’s songwriting skills – “She paints pictures with her words”, whilst The Living Tradition publication has described the Forkhill folk singer as “An Irish Nanci Griffiths – Briege’s voice is comparable to the best of the Irish female singers!”

This promises to be a lovely night of music from some of Ireland’s most accomplished songwriters.  Due to the unusual setting of the venue as it is an old gaol, tickets are limited for performances so early booking is advised. For further information, contact the Oriel Centre, Dundalk Gaol on 042 932888, log onto www.oriel centre.ie or Facebook Shenanigans Dundalk.

Sinn Féin Councillor Barra Ó Muirí has commended the hard-working Residents Group of Dungormley and Lir Grove in Newtownhamilton.

The group, established in January of this year, has been backed by Supporting Communities and successfully applied for funding streams from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

 Urging the committee to work together throughout the remainder of the year, the local Councillor said,

“Peter Haughey, Sharon Nesbit and Ann Dougan have gone through trojan work to improve the look of Dungormley and Lir Grove, much to the joy of the wider community. The area is looking really well.” 

“Congratulations to all involved with the group for the floral displays, new bins, grass cutting and the recent community festival held on the Green. With exciting plans for the future, it’s a big well done to the Residents Group of Dungormley and Lir Grove.”

Slieve Gullion Sinn Féin councillor Terry Hearty says his campaign to ensure the adequate  provision of disabled parking bays and full access to services for those with restricted mobility in Crossmaglen has moved a step closer to fruition.

The local councillor, who put forward a proposal at the Slieve Gullion DEA Forum to provide disabled access and parking bays throughout the town, recently met with local businesses to discuss the issue. Mr Hearty says the response to the issues involved has been positive.

“Crossmaglen has many services that people from across the south Armagh area do business with. In the town we have facilities such as the Bank, the Library, the Credit Union, The Health Centre, Accountants and Solicitors Offices, Citizens Advice and many other services,” he said.

“Latest figures show that we have over 1,000 Blue Badge Holders in our surrounding area. We so often see users of mobility scooters and wheelchairs having to go out on the road because their access is restricted. Any of our older people or people with a disability should be able to access services they require at their ease and without any inconvenience.”

The councillor revealed that a Department of Infrastructure representative will be attending the next DEA Forum meeting, where the department will be called upon to “act now to provide this basic right to people with disabilities.”

 “I can assure everyone that we will continue to lobby until this basic right is delivered.”

Householders are being urged to take control of their energy bills in preparation for the biggest price hike in energy bills since 2013, after the north’s main electricity supplier, Power NI announced a 14% surge in electricity prices.

The increase, which will come into effect on October 1st, will hit over half a million households across the north, with Power NI supplying more than 58% of homes here. The price hike, the firm’s biggest in five years, follows a 5.6% increase in 2017, and is expected to add £68 to annual bills. 

PowerNI blamed “increases in wholesale electricity costs” for the rise of around £1.33 a week to the average bill and said putting prices up “is the last thing we want to do” 

Stephen Cully, PowerNI Managing Director said the company was “at the mercy of fluctuating world fuel prices” and had worked through a rigorous process with the Utility Regulator.

“Customers can be sure that although unwelcome, this increase is as low as possible and our prices are still cheaper than they were five years ago,” said Mr Cully.

The second successive year of price hikes by the energy supplier has caused widespread concern, with Sinn Fein’s Energy, Environment and Climate spokesperson, Cathal Boylan, branding it “deeply disappointing and concerning”. 

“This surge will see an annual bill increase of £68 per year for Power NI customers, on top of a 5.6 percent increase in 2017, ultimately placing increased pressure on many people who are already struggling to pay their bills,” said the Sinn Fein MLA.

“PowerNI has stated that the increase is due to rising gas and oil prices which have made electricity supply more costly.

“While Sinn Féin acknowledges the rising costs of energy production, we feel these issues could be partially mitigated if PowerNI took more steps to diversify its electricity supply.

Mr Boylan encouraged householders to read his party’s recently launched ‘Powering Ireland 2030’ document, which advocates for electricity suppliers to move towards using renewable energy to generate electricity.

John French, Chief Executive of The Consumer Council, said a typical household using Power NI will see their annual electricity cost rise from £497 per year to £565 per year.

“Our analysis shows that this increase broadly reflects the increases we have seen on the wholesale energy markets,” said Mr French before highlighting “that households can still make significant savings within the electricity market in Northern Ireland by annually shopping around for the best deal.”

Utility Regulator chief executive Jenny Pyper said that after the increase the average Power NI bill will be about “15% lower than the GB average and around 29% cheaper than the Republic of Ireland average standard tariff”.

“It will also see prices back to slightly lower than where they were in 2013,” she added.

Sinn Féin Councillor Barra Ó Muirí says he is delighted that a First Responders Group is to be set up in Newtownhamilton.

Speaking after the first public meeting of the First Responders Group in the town on Thursday evening last (14th August), the local councillor said,  

“Following an initial meeting last month, there has been a great level of interest within the town towards the establishment of such a Group. 

“There is an unfortunate deficit in accident and emergency cover in the general south Armagh area which most of us believe can only be alleviated by the establishment of an Ambulance substation. That campaign is ongoing, however I have no doubt that those living within this area will benefit from the additional resource of a First Responders Group.”

Anyone wishing to volunteer as a First Responder in Newtownhamilton should contact the Newtown Community Association. 

SDLP Assembly Member for Newry and Armagh Justin McNulty MLA says the British government’s new Universal Credit benefit is “crippling working individuals and families and is yet another reason why there must be a halt on its further roll out across the North.”

Mr McNulty says working families are losing out on hundreds of pounds of entitlement to Universal Credit over the course of the year because of the date their pay day falls. 

“Those paid every two weeks or paid twice in one calendar month are being penalised,” explained the SDLP MLA.

“Not only does this leave claimants financially worse off, but it can also affect health care entitlements and automatically triggers the benefit cap, despite the fact these people are working.

“This harsh reality facing working families couldn’t be further from the government’s promise that ‘Universal Credit will help make sure you are better off in work than on benefits’.”

The local SDLP representative says his party has raised this issue with the Department for Communities a number of times.

“Still no action has been taken to resolve this. The fact that the system can’t cope with this is further proof that the system is not fit for purpose and at minimum must be halted, if not scrapped.”

Rising country star, Kerry Fearon says she is on cloud nine after being nominated for the Celebrity of the Year Award at the Ulster Tatler Awards, which take place at Belfast City Hall next month.

Kerry joins a prestigious list of finalists nominated for the title, including Fifty Shades star Jamie Dornan, UTV’s Pamela Ballantine, Q Radio’s Stephen Clements and actor/director, Sir Kenneth Branagh.

Speaking to The Examiner after receiving the news of her nomination, the Dromintee singer said,

“This really is a huge honour and privilege for me and it seems that all my hard work is finally being recognised!”

The Tatler nomination, coming hot on the heels of her Johnny Loughrey Music Award at the Hot Country TV Awards in May,  is an amazing feat for the homegrown country singer,  who only launched her music career three years ago.

Delighted to have recently released her debut album, ‘Honky Tonk Girl’ – a collection of country classics with Kerry’s own stamp on them – the country scene’s “pocket rocket” is also buzzing after returning from opening up for American country singer, Kelly Willis on her Back Being Blue UK tour. 

“This was a massive highlight in my short music career, especially with me being a huge fan of Kelly’s work over the years,” enthuses Kerry.

“She was superb and I was fortunate to have her guitarist Geoff Queen to accompany me on stage. Geoff has also played with many great names but in more recent years he was Sunny Sweeney’s band leader!”

Kerry says she was “welcomed with open arms in England and, as well as buying a lot of copies of my album, the crowd sang along with me. It was so surreal.”

The multi-talented south Armagh woman has juggled her burgeoning music career with her daytime role of special needs teacher, her Downtown Radio show and her TV presenting role on Kerry’s Gold Country, carving a name for herself in every aspect of the country scene.

To add to her glowing list of achievements, the hard working singer will also graduate at the end of this month after completing a University of Ulster Diploma in Irish Language – and she admits that she has decided to take a well earned break from studying for the upcoming academic year.

The accomplished singer is also very excited to be participating in round table discussion panels at Canadian Country music week in Hamilton Ontario this September.

“I have been invited along with respected journalist and publicist Alan Cackett and we will also be there for the Canadian Country Music Awards which are being hosted by Shania Twain.”

A packed schedule awaits the local country singer over the coming months, full of the opportunities and challenges which hardworking Kerry relishes.  To keep up to date with Kerry’s upcoming gigs, TV and Radio shows, and growing list of achievements and accolades, follow Kerry Fearon Music and Media on Facebook.

The Ulster Tatler Awards take place on 6th September at Belfast City Hall.

Thousands of students across the district celebrated A- Level success over the weekend, and this year more boys than girls were celebrating A* achievement – a history-making first for male students.

Newry and Mourne’s A-Level pupils joined 30,000 across the north who received their A-level and AS results on Thursday morning.  Boys proved to be this year’s star students as they overtook girls in the top A-level grade by 0.4%, marking the first time males have outperformed females since the grade was awarded in 2010.

The performance gap between females and males also narrowed at the A* – A grades, following concerted efforts to address the disparity by education authorities.

Whilst figures released on behalf of the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQCIC) show a stable performance from NI A-Level students across all grades, there was a small increase in those awarded the top grade, with just under a tenth earning an A*.

The top five subject choices remained the same, with Mathematics continuing to be the most popular, closely followed by Biology, Religious Studies, English Literature and History. This year boys preferred Business Studies, replacing ICT in popularity with males, with Geography replacing history for girls.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects – which make up one third of entries – continued to increase in popularity, with the overall proportion of STEM entries, up from 39.7% to 40.1%.  Numbers taking languages decreased slightly while music and performing arts saw an increase and a new life and health sciences qualification proved popular, particularly with girls. Computing subjects also saw a rise in entries.

Justin Edwards, chief executive of the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) in Northern Ireland, congratulated A-Level students on “a steady and strong performance across all grades” and he said the results “are also recognition of the dedication and support provided by teachers and schools.”

Principal of St.Paul’s High School in Bessbrook, which enjoyed another excellent year of achievement at A-Level, congratulated all his students.  The proud principal praised the work ethic of the year group and said it was his “privilege to have been part of their development from children to adults.”

Mr Burns also paid tribute to commitment of the students’ parents and families, “in raising such well adjusted and focused young people.”

“I wish them well as they pursue the next stage of their lives,” he added.

“I know I and the rest of the staff will particularly miss this year group because they represented all that is good about St.Paul’s.”

This Thursday is the turn of GCSE students to receive their results. 

 The latest edition of a highly sought after Bodhrán tuition pack will be officially launched as part of Newry’s Iúr Cinn Fleadh next month.

Produced by master musicians Fergal O’Brien and René de Kat, the pair will launch the third edition of their Grade 2 Bodhrán Tutor Book and CD on Saturday 8th September at an event in Newry Library.  Previous editions having attracted regional and international commendations, with copies sold in 17 countries, and as far as Japan and South Korea.

Over the past two years, bodhrán students and teachers with the Traditional Arts Partnership (TAP) in Mullaghbawn, have enjoyed excellent successes, while Fergal and René, along with Alana Flynn, have led 63 students of all ages and backgrounds successfully through Bodhrán Grades 2-8 in the London College of Music (LCM).

Fergal says that he believes that the Bodhrán grades have had many advantages. First and foremost it has raised the self confidence levels of participants leaving them with a tangible qualification for life. Students have the opportunity of gaining University points from Grade 6 onwards, who wish to attend some Northern Irish and UK colleges, whilst mature students can gain credits for performing arts courses in the Republic of Ireland. Although students at TAP continue to gain opportunities to take part at a Feis or Fleadh, grades offer the chance for a much wider number of students to get a sense of achievement.

Information on the grades will be provided from 10.30am ahead on the day of the event, ahead of the official launch of the Third Edition of the Grade 2 Bodhrán Book and CD at 10.45am on 8th September in Newry Library. 

Fergal and René will follow the launch with bodhrán workshops in Newry Library for beginners from 11am-12pm and Intermediate/ Advanced from 12- 1pm. Registration is £5.00 per workshop by email Obrien.fergal@yahoo.co.uk  or on the morning (subject to space).  Bodhráns for total beginners can be provided for this workshop if pre- arranged.

Ahead of its official launch, the new edition book and CD have been receiving rave reviews from leading players and book reviewers: “This is a very useful, accessible little tutor book. It introduces learners to the different rhythms and forms found in traditional music without over- complicating things at this early stage, and anyone- not just those sitting the Grade 2 exam- would learn from it” Chris Heatley-Mulhall, The Living Tradition.

Eithne, mother of a primary student commented: “This book is a God-send for anyone who wants a step by step guide on how to work towards their Grade 2 on the bodhrán. It’s easy to follow, and covers every single detail you will need. The CD included is particularly useful for practising with the tunes. I would highly recommend it.” 

Scheduled workshops will provide an opportunity for students of all ages to find out more about bodhrán grades before joining classes in Mullaghbawn or Warrenpoint. Registration with the Traditional Arts Partnership, Mullaghbawn will be Tuesday 28th August in Mullaghbawn Community Hall from 6-8pm and registration for lessons with Warrenpoint Comhaltas  will take  place September 12th  from 7.30pm in St Peter’ s GAA Club Warrenpoint. Further details contact Fergal O’Brien by email at Obrien.fergal@yahoo.co.uk .

Last week saw the launch of “Ellen’s Charity Ball”,  a glittering gala ball set to take place in the Canal Court this November to raise funds for future treatment in the US for little  Bessbrook girl, Ellen Treanor, who is fighting stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma.

The three year old’s family have launched a massive fundraising drive with Solving Kids’ Cancer to give the happy-go-lucky toddler the best chance of living cancer free. 

Announcing the launch of the charity ball, Chairman of Newry, Mourne and District Council, Mark Murnin, said he was delighted to be associated with the event.  

“As First Citizen I am constantly humbled by the amazing community spirit shown throughout the great district of Newry, Mourne and Down,” he said. 

“Ellen’s fight against neuroblastoma has been ongoing since her diagnosis in January this year.  The hope that clinical trials in the US may be able to help her, has led to a massive fund raising campaign and incredible generosity from our community and beyond.

“Ellen and her family have endured so much since her devastating diagnosis and their strength and resilience is truly inspiring.  It is wonderful to see our community supporting the family in their battle for Ellen.”

The Council Chairperson paid particular thanks to the Ellen’s Journey Committee for their many fundraising activities to date – including a recent sponsored walk in Bessbrook and a street collection in Newry which together raised £26,000.

“The cost of Ellen’s care and treatment in the US will of course cost substantially in excess of monies raised to date and the Charity Ball is a vital fundraiser,” added Mr Murnin, urging those who have not yet bought tickets to make their purchases as soon as possible, with just 10 tables still available!

“Let’s all dig deep and help this precious little girl and her family avail of a unique opportunity to access treatment that may be vital to her return to good health,” said the Council Chairperson.

“All societies are judged by the way they support their most vulnerable and Newry, Mourne and Down District can be proud of the help given to Ellen and the Treanor’s to date.  We assure them to our continued support going forward and wish Ellen a return to good health.”

Event organiser Sharyn Sloan promises “an amazing night of music and entertainment.”

“Downtown Radio’s Kevin McAlister will be the compére of the evening and The Nooks never fail to get everyone dancing!” explains Sharyn Sloan, event organiser. 

“We expect a really good turnout of local support from both local businesses and members of our community. We have already been blown away by the level of interest out there; people are seeing it as a great opportunity to come together, have a brilliant night and ultimately give hope to this mighty wee girl and her family.”

Tickets are on sale now priced at £50 each or £500 for a table of 10. For ticket sales or to donate please contact:

Sharyn Sloan: 07833252520

Billy Feehan: 07595343066

Three Lithuanian men living in Newry have been convicted of gangmaster offences following investigations carried out by the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA).

Rolandas Linkevicius, 39, of Mountain View Drive in the city, Aurimas Andrijauskas, 37, of Maple Grove and 34 year old Airidas Grabausks of Clonmore, Newry, pleaded guilty to acting as unlicensed gangmasters after their company, Coastal Seafoods Ltd, was found to have been operating a business with eight workers out picking shellfish across Northern Ireland without a GLAA licence between October 2016 and May 2017.

Linkevicius and Andrijauskas were each fined £750, plus offender levies of £15. 

Grabausks, a director of A&A Seafood Ltd in the city, admitted acting as an unlicensed gangmaster between November 2016 and May 2017 by similarly employing workers to pick shellfish across Northern Ireland. He was fined £500 plus an offender levy of £15.

Speaking at Newry Magistrates’ Court on Monday last, District Judge Eamonn King said that in both cases there was a degree of enterprise to make money but nothing more sinister.

GLAA Director of Operations Ian Waterfield said: “These successful prosecutions demonstrate our continued commitment to ensure that those people who break the law in our regulated sectors are brought to justice.

“In both cases, the defendants took a risk that they would not be caught without a licence. However, their attempts to flout the law have backfired and these cases should act as a lesson to all gangmasters in the shellfish industry. We will find out and we will prosecute.”   

It is a criminal offence to provide labour in the shellfish sector without a GLAA licence. The maximum penalty is 10 years in prison and a fine.

It is also an offence to use labour provided by unlicensed labour providers. This offence carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison and a fine.

The Diocese of Dromore has moved to clarify reports that four priests interviewed by police in relation to the investigation into paedophile priest Malachy Finegan were released on police bail. 

In a statement issued in response to an Irish News article on the current investigation into abuse by the late cleric, the Diocese confirmed that priests “engaged voluntarily with the PSNI to give interviews”, but insisted that their release did not involve police bail.

“The Diocese of Dromore and its clergy have been and will continue to cooperate fully with the ongoing PSNI investigation into the late Fr Finegan,” it added.

A PSNI team are investigating the circumstances of abuse committed by the former President of St Colman’s College in Newry and any other people connected to the leading grammar school.

Finegan, who was a parish priest of Clonduff in Hilltown as well as a teacher and later president at St. Colman’s, has been accused of sexual and physical abuse against boys on church and school premises. He was never questioned by police or prosecuted before his death in 2002.

In March this year, Dr John McAreavey resigned as Bishop of Dromore after it emerged he co-celebrated Mass with Finegan despite knowing he was a paedophile.

The PSNI probe is also investigating if children were abused by any other individual at St Colman’s while Finegan worked there between 1967 and 1987, and it will ascertain when authorities first became aware of the cleric’s offences and what action was taken to ensure adequate safeguarding.

In its statement, the diocese also said it “advises anyone who may have a concern of a safeguarding nature to contact the PSNI, Social Services, or the Diocesan Designated Safeguarding Officer.”

A PSNI spokesperson said they “continue to investigate circumstances of abuse committed by deceased priest Fr Malachy Finegan and other persons connected to St Colman’s College, Newry”.

“To date, more than 30 people have contacted police in relation to the investigation and a significant number of statements have been recorded.

“A number of people have also been interviewed in respect of other offences and further interviews are planned.

“As the investigation continues police would continue to appeal to anyone affected by abuse to contact the Public Protection Branch on 101.”

The PSNI, together with representatives of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency carried out a joint operation on Monday last targeting unlicensed vehicles in Newtownhamilton.  The move was in response to complaints from local residents regarding unlicensed vehicles and parking issues in the area. 

Commenting on the PSNI Newry and Mourne Facebook page, police revealed that a total 14 vehicles were clamped, six tickets were issued and “numerous” vehicles were seized and taken away during the operation. 

Police praised the local community saying their “response and support on the day was fantastic” and revealed similar operations are planned for other areas.

“So if you or your vehicle shouldn’t be on the road…. stay off it!” they warned.

Yesterday (Sunday) marked a once-in-a-lifetime moment for talented young singer with close links to the south Armagh area when she sang during the Papal Mass celebrated by Pope Francis in Dublin’s Phoenix Park. 

Dearbhla Thornton’s school choir – St. Louise’s Comprehensive in Belfast – featured as part of the liturgical celebrations at the ceremony attended by more than 500,000 people. 

Fourteen-year-old Dearbhla is a regular visitor to the home of her grandparents’ Bernadette and the late Patsy McVerry in Carnally, Silverbridge, from where her proud mum Deirdre moved to live in Belfast.

Speaking to The Examiner ahead of the event, the talented teenager said she was both “nervous and excited” at performing in front of the huge audience on such a momentous occasion.  Unsure if she would actually get to meet Pope Francis in person, Dearbhla was nonetheless looking forward to experiencing the first Papal visit to Ireland since Pope John Paul II in 1979.

The founder of the renowned Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust has been recognised by the Prime Minister for his work in helping bereaved families bring home their loved ones who have died abroad.

Colin Bell, who along with his wife Eithne, set up the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust after their 26-year-old son was killed in a suspected hit-and-run in New York in 2013, has received a Points of Light Award for the tireless work of the charity. 

Following Kevin’s death, there was an outpouring of local and global support and donations to raise funds to bring the hugely popular Newry man’s remains back to his grieving family. Over £100,000 was raised to help bring Kevin home and the Bell family decided to use the excess funds to set up a charity to support families in the repatriation of their loved ones.  Along with wife Eithne, they assist people throughout Ireland and, since 2013, the KBRT has brought home over 500 individuals who have died overseas.  

Expressing his surprise at receiving the award, Colin said he is “pleased and grateful” for the recognition from the Prime Minister and added,

“I am delighted also with the awareness which will be raised for the trust through this award and hope that it will encourage those people in England, Scotland and Wales who are in the process of setting up similar trusts based on ‘The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust’ model.”

Former Abbey PS teacher, Colin is the latest recipient of the Points of Light award, which recognises outstanding volunteers who are making a change in their community and inspiring others. 

In a personal letter to Colin, Prime Minister May said, “By establishing the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust you have turned a personal tragedy into a force for good, assisting hundreds of families going through the traumatic experience of bringing the body of a loved one home. You should feel incredibly proud of the work you are doing in Kevin’s memory to support grieving families across Northern Ireland and Ireland.”

Newry and Armagh MP, Mickey Brady praised the Bell family and the volunteers who help to bring about the assistance of KBRT to families throughout Ireland.

“It is truly inspirational to see the commitment of my constituents Colin and Eithne Bell in the essential work that they carry out through ‘The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust,” said Mr Brady. 

“Since 2013 they have assisted in the repatriation of over 500 people from across the world. 

“The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust charity is there to help families at a time of great distress and when help is most crucially needed. 

“I commend them and the trust volunteers for this great work and for the practical and emotional support they provide for families at the time of greatest need. They are shining examples to us all,” added the MP.

Police are still working to establish a motive behind a shooting incident in Newry in which number of shots were fired at a house in Barcroft Park.

Four adults who were in the house at the time escaped uninjured but are reported to be “extremely shaken”.

The incident occurred around 11.45pm on Wednesday in First Street in the estate when “a volley of shots” shattered the front window of the property.  Detectives investigating say they believe an automatic weapon was used in the attack.

Local community worker Ewan Morgan said those who carried out the “cowardly attack” have “total disregard for anyone living in the vicinity”.  He said members of the Barcroft Community Association were quickly on the scene to provide support and comfort and he praised the police response as “prompt and calm”.

Mr Morgan, who is an independent member of the Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) and works with Community Restorative Justice (CRJ) said the organization is compiling “a procedural file” on the incident for presentation at a ‘Policing within the Community” meeting later this week.  

Encouraging anyone affected by the attack to contact CRJ on 028 3026 6337, he added: “If anyone has relevant information and are reluctant to go directly to police, they can pass this on through our office.

SDLP councillor Michael Savage branded those behind the attack responsible as reckless with no regard for the lives of the people of Newry.

“Whatever the motivation for this attack, I condemn it in the strongest possible terms.  We could very easily be dealing with a murder this morning,” he said. 

“There are young families and elderly residents living in this street and they could have been caught up in this. My thoughts are with the victims of the attack who are very badly shaken by what happened.

“The people of Barcroft have worked very hard to build community spirit in recent times and there is a real sense of togetherness in the area and this incident is no reflection on life in Barcroft.  This was a senseless and mindless attack that has no place on the streets of Barcroft or indeed our city.”

His party colleague Justin McNulty MLA said such reckless attacks “are wholly unjustified” with no place in society.

“It is a miracle that the four adults in the house escaped injury.  The people of Barcroft Park are shocked by this incident and deeply concerned this has happened in their community.  Those responsible must be taken off our streets,” he said, and appealed for anyone with information to contact police.

In the wake of a recent training session for councillors on Procurement procedures for contracts offered by Newry Mourne and Down District Council, SDLP Councillor Pete Byrne has called for increased support for small local businesses to access such projects of work.

Councillor Byrne said: “I initially called for Procurement training six months ago and again at the Council’s Audit Committee just before the summer.  As a relatively new Councillor, I was keen to educate myself on the procurement process after I received complaints from several small local businesses about the lack of access to Council contracts. To ensure fairness for businesses within our district, it is important that they are provided with the information and know how on the tendering process so that they can maximise their chances of securing contracts.”

Byrne says he was disappointed to find the “limited scope” faced by smaller businesses attempting win Council contracts, as the system currently “gives an edge to larger companies”. 

“What is particularly infuriating is that once these large companies secure contracts, they then subcontract parts to smaller businesses. This effectively creates a monopoly in which large companies control and benefit from Council contracts to basically manage projects while subcontracting to small firms to carry out the work. This is an unnecessary level of bureaucracy that diminishes the value for money for the ratepayer,” he said.

“While there is a commitment to hold information sessions for local businesses at the start of the next Council term, I will be calling for these to be held before Christmas to ensure they are well equipped to apply for upcoming capital works. Smaller businesses within our district need to be encouraged to pool their skills and trades together in joint bids for contract work, which will give them a better chance of securing bids.”

Councillor Byrne says this is among a number of suggestions he intends to bring before the next meeting of the Council’s Strategy Policy and Resources Committee.

“As always, I will ensure that criteria are scrutinised and amended appropriately to ensure fairness. That is why I have asked for papers of all tenders to be tabled at the Council’s SPR Committee, with a desire to see a system where different tenders are sought.  It is important that we as Councillors provide a voice for local businesses who contribute massively to the development of services through rates in this district. We have a duty to scrutinise, debate and find a fairer way forward for local business,” he added.

There exists an urgent need for a new CT Scanner in Daisy Hill Hospital after reports that the current machine had been rendered out of service twice within a recent short period, The Examiner has learned.

MP Mickey Brady made the claim following a meeting with the Chief Executive and management of the Southern Health and Social Care Trust.  He has called for capital funding to be made available to purchase a new scanner for the hospital “as a matter of urgency”.

Mr Brady said: “The age, condition and effectiveness of the current machine is a cause of great concern and I am aware that it recently broke down again.

“Daisy Hill Acute Hospital, Newry city is in the largest locality in the Southern Trust in Newry & Mourne, and also provides for the wider catchment population which also includes south Armagh and south Down.  It is essential that to ensure that the objectives of ‘increasing capacity to meet future demand and to further improve quality and safety’ are met, that investment and funding for new, up to date major CT and MRI scanning equipment is made available as a matter of urgency.”

The MP said he has raised his concerns with the Southern Trust, and added: “The issue of investment in all vital imaging services and equipment to be provided for Daisy  Hill Acute Hospital has also been raised by staff, patient groups and hospital support groups. It is important that our voices are heard and action taken.”