Northern Ireland pub bosses hail ‘fantastic day’ as customers return
Tommy Brady, 78, enjoying his first pint of Smithwick’s Ale since Christmas Eve at The Garrick Bar in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA)
Mon, 24 May, 2021 - 14:18
Jonathan McCambridge, PA
Pub bosses in the North have hailed a “fantastic day” as customers were allowed to return indoors for the first time this year.
Restaurants, cafes, bars and other hospitality venues in Northern Ireland can operate indoors from Monday in another sign of a return to normality as Covid-19 restrictions ease further.
The historic Hillside Bar in Hillsborough, Co Down, has been trading since 1752, but was forced to close its doors due to lockdown restrictions imposed because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Northern Ireland facing unprecedented mental health challenges, Health Minister warns
Robin Swann: Given that this week is Mental Health Awareness Week, it is entirely appropriate that we give this topic the platform and focus it deserves.
Health Minister Robin Swann. Picture: Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye/PA
Thu, 13 May, 2021 - 10:41
Jonathan McCambridge, PA
Northern Ireland is facing “unprecedented” mental health challenges following the coronavirus pandemic, Health Minister Robin Swann has warned.
Addressing his Stormont scrutiny committee on Thursday, Mr Swann said there was a shortfall of £100m to £150m in mental health provision in Northern Ireland.
He said that urgent funding was needed to address the situation and to put mental health on an even footing with physical health.
Jeffrey Donaldson tells party colleagues he’s running for DUP leadership
The PA news agency understands Mr Donaldson sent a letter to MPs and Assembly members on Monday morning informing them of his decision
Edwin Poots and Sir Jeffrey Donaldson (PA)
Mon, 03 May, 2021 - 09:29
David Young, PA
Jeffrey Donaldson has told party colleagues that he intends to run for the DUP leadership.
The PA news agency understands Mr Donaldson sent a letter to MPs and Assembly members on Monday morning informing them of his decision.
PA understands the party’s current Westminster leader will make an official announcement later on Monday morning.