SF Propose New All-Ireland Tourism Strategy

An all-Ireland tourism strategy, that would see the islands key tourism locations "joining up", could help create jobs and rebuild the economy, Sinn Féin's Michelle O'Neill has said.

Speaking at the launch of the Sinn Féin's "Explore More" plan for tourism, Michelle O'Neill said: "Sinn Féin's plan for tourism would create jobs, help rebuild the economy and put money in people's pockets.

"Key to that is making sure tourism thrives in the north and across the island to get more people back into our bars, restaurants, hotels and tourist attractions.

"Sinn Féin's Explore More plan would extend Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland's Hidden Heartlands and Ireland's Ancient East into the north to attract even more visitors.

"These areas are recognised all over the world, they should be developed on an all-island basis.

"By extending them to the north, we can boost the economy, we can create jobs and we can help tourism thrive."

Belfast Lord Mayor Visits Belfast's Window On Wildlife

The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Kate Nicholl has visited the RSPB's Belfast Window on Wildlife on the shores of Belfast Lough as she continues to discover some of the city's hidden gems, in partnership with Visit Belfast.

As the tourism recovers from the effects of the pandemic, the Lord Mayor is encouraging everyone to get out and explore the city and its wider environs for themselves.

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Kate Nicholl said: "Belfast's unique location between hills and sea offers visitors and locals a fantastic range of beautiful green spaces to enjoy nature.

"We are so lucky to be able to transport ourselves from the hustle and bustle of the city centre to the tranquil surrounds of Belfast Lough to discover the precious habitats that continue to support a vast array of birds, insects and plant species. I'm thrilled to be able to come down to the RSPB's Belfast Window on Wildlife to catch a glimpse of the migrating birds and meet the team who are working so hard in conserving their habitat and this special place, right at the edge of our city."

Green Party Calls For Action On Fuel Poverty

Green Party NI Leader, Clare Bailey, has called for the Executive to take action to tackle fuel poverty this winter.

Making the call, the South Belfast MLA said: "Yesterday I met with the CEO of the Utility Regulator, John French, and heard first-hand how energy prices in Northern Ireland are set to soar yet again. This is a stark reminder that basing our energy supply on fossil fuels doesn't just impact the climate crisis, but it is now exacerbating the cost of living crisis as well.

"Combined with the removal of the Universal Credit uplift, this means that many will be facing a tough winter. The Executive should now step up and take the urgent action needed to ensure that no families are forced to choose between heating and eating this Christmas."

Commenting on today's revelation that proposals to extend welfare mitigations in Northern Ireland have been blocked from being discussed by the Executive 39 times, she added: "This is yet another example of how the five-party Executive has failed Northern Ireland. Time and again, the Executive parties have just delivered us deadlock and inaction, as the most vulnerable continue to struggle. The people of Northern Ireland deserve better."