Helping shape a strategy on money matters

Many of us find managing our personal finances increasingly more complex and challenging, especially in the current economic climate. Whether you;re saving for a special item, paying off debts or just planning a personal or family budget, keeping control of your money is central to maintaining a good quality of life.

Are you financially capable?

Financially capable consumers have the information, skills, and competence to reduce money-related stress by, for example, improving their personal finances and dealing more effectively with problem debt.

Highlighting the importance of good money management, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster said: “Financial capability is about equipping consumers with the skills, knowledge and information they need to manage, plan, and take responsibility for their financial affairs.

“Essentially, financial capability is a key life skill that is needed by everyone in our society, irrespective of their age, gender, marital status, or their level of income.

"I would encourage everyone with an interest to attend the consultation events and contribute to the development of this important strategy. These are challenging times and we cannot afford to miss this opportunity to improve the financial capability of Northern Ireland consumers.”

Have your say

With this in mind, The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) has launched a consultation on a draft Financial Capability Strategy for Northern Ireland Consumers.

As part of the consultation process, DETI is hosting a consultation event between 2pm and 5pm on Thursday 30 May at Belfast Central Mission to offer stakeholders an opportunity to help formulate the Strategy.

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment consultation event will take place between 2pm and 5pm on Thursday 30 May at Belfast Central Mission, Grosvenor House, 5 Glengall Street, Belfast BT12 5AD and forms part of the 12 week consultation which runs from 1 May to 31 July 2013.

Consultation events are also being held at the following venues:

• Tuesday 21 May (2pm - 5pm) - CAFRE Loughry Campus, 76 Dungannon Road, Cookstown BT80 9AA
• Wednesday 22 May (2pm - 5pm) - The Playhouse Theatre, 5-7 Artillery St, Londonderry, BT48 6RG
• Thursday 6 June (2pm - 5pm) - Craigavon Leisure Centre, Brownlow Road, Craigavon BT65 6DL

The consultation paper and accompanying research based evidence is available to download from the DETI website at the link below:

Financial Capability Strategy Consultation - DETI website

You can request a hard copy using the contact information below:

Financial Capability Branch
DETI
Room 53, Netherleigh
Massey Avenue
Belfast BT4 2JP

Tel: (028) 90 529462 or (028) 90 529634

Response from Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland on Mark Durkan’s comments today in relation to under occupancy

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has responded to Mark H. Durkan's comments on under occupancy.

“Mr Durkan’s comments are completely inaccurate and to suggest I am burying my head in the sand is simply ridiculous.

“I have reiterated time and time again in both in the Assembly and in media interviews my concerns with this element of welfare reform. Some time ago I asked social landlords to ensure that they had considered all options to prevent tenants being evicted from their homes or being made homeless as a result of these changes. I asked both the Housing Executive and the Housing Association movement to bring forward detailed action plans to provide a range of support measures for those households affected. No guidelines were issued by my department.

“I will be continuing to work with my Executive colleagues to ensure the most vulnerable people here are protected as welfare changes are implemented across the UK.

“In addition, over the last few weeks, I published a series of in depth research reports on the Northern Ireland impacts of welfare reform proposals. This research was shared extensively among my Assembly colleagues, the Social Development Committee of which Mr Durkan is a part, the media and stakeholder organisations.

“While a number of elements of the Welfare Reform Act (GB) 2012 are due to be implemented in Great Britain in the coming weeks, these will not begin in Northern Ireland until the Welfare Reform Bill (NI) 2012 has become law and the necessary regulations have been put in place. This Bill is currently making its way through the legislative process at the Northern Ireland Assembly and the next step in the legislative process is Consideration Stage, which will begin on 16 April 2013.”

We are supporting Safer Internet Day 2013

Safer Internet Day is celebrating its tenth year of promoting safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially among children and young people.

The #SID2013 message for this year is 'Connect with Respect', which aims to encourage children, young people, parents, teachers and the internet industry to really think about their online rights and responsibilities and how they can help make the internet safe for everyone.

Take the #SID2013 quiz to find out how you 'connect with respect' and then watch short video below.

Online rights and responsibilities

In honour of the tenth anniversary children and young people across the UK have worked in partnership with the UK Safe Internet Centre to develop a charter of "ten online rights and responsibilities". The charter is a result of a survey completed by over 20,000 children and young people.

Children and young people ranging in age from 7 - 11 (Primary School Charter) and 11- 19 years old (Secondary School Charter) voted on what they thought were the most important rights and responsibilities they had when online.




 

Top ten online rights and responsibilities voted for by primary school age children (7-11 year olds)

View the larger version here


I should feel safe
I should not be bullied
I should be able to tell someone if...

Top ten online rights and responsibilities voted for by secondary school age children (11-19 year olds)

View a larger version here

I should feel safe

I should be able to manage who can see the content I post online

I should be educated about staying safe online

For more information on the Top Ten Rights and Responsibilities charters and the full report on the 'Have Your Say' survey please visit the #SID2013 website.

You can join the discussion about safer internet on twitter using #SID2013 or visit SID2013 facebook 

Ministers congratulate JP McManus scholarship recipients

Education Minister, John O’Dowd and Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen Farry have congratulated the recipients of the JP McManus All Ireland Scholarship Scheme at a ceremony in Limerick.

The scheme, funded by JP McManus, provides financial assistance to students across Ireland from low-income households who are intending to take up higher education places.

Former US President Bill Clinton presented certificates to the 125 winning students, including 25 young people from the north. Ministers O’ Dowd and Farry were also recognised for their support of the All-Ireland Scholarship at the event.

Speaking from the University of Limerick Concert Hall, Education Minister, John O’Dowd said: “Many young people are keen to move on to higher education in order to develop their skills and pursue specific career goals. However those from low income families can find the financial costs associated with higher education to be a barrier to pursuing this career and study path. JP McManus’s continued investment and commitment to the All Ireland scholarships is to be commended. His generous support is particularly welcome at a time when many families are facing increased financial pressures.

“The skills and qualifications acquired through higher education can broaden horizons and prospects, benefiting not only the individual but also our wider communities. The value of these awards is therefore worth much more than the monetary cost; they offer the opportunity of third level education to young people who may previously not have had that option.

“I want to congratulate all of the recipients on their hard work and wish them every success in the future in their chosen studies and careers.”

Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen Farry said: “I commend JP McManus for his continued generosity in providing these scholarships. The vision and practical support of people like him from the world of business shows that philanthropy can make a real difference to the lives of students looking to gain all the benefits from higher education. The award of a scholarship brings with it prestige but it also brings with it responsibility. I know our students will discharge that responsibility and will use their award to lay the foundations for successful and fulfilling careers that will not only be of benefit to them but also the wider economy.

“My Department’s recently published Widening Participation Strategy, Access to Success, demonstrates my commitment to ensuring that those who are most able but least likely to participate in higher education should be given every encouragement and support to achieve the necessary qualifications to apply to, and to benefit from, the higher education that is right for them. This Scholarship will help to support this commitment to widening participation by ensuring that all young people, irrespective of their background, have the opportunity to access higher education.”

The All Ireland scholarships provide financial assistance for up to 25 students per year, in the north, for studies at Undergraduate level. Scholarships are worth £5,500 per year with recipients coming from low income households and in receipt of Educational Maintenance Allowance. The ceremony took place on Saturday 17 November in the University of Limerick Concert Hall.

Freezing car parking charges until 2015 will give boost to city centres - Kennedy

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy has welcomed the decision from the Executive not to increase car parking charges.

Speaking after the Executive meeting today the Minister said: “My officials and I have been working hard to gain agreement for the freeze on car parking charges in this budget period and I am pleased that the Executive has come to an agreement on this issue. 

“This is exactly the sort of mechanism we need to give a confidence boost to traders and those who shop and work in our towns and cities and it illustrates that elected representatives can deliver positively for our own people. 

“I believe that this will be warmly welcomed by shoppers and traders in town centres and it comes at an opportune time in the run up to Christmas.”

Glyn Roberts NIIRTA Chief Executive also welcomed the decision. He said: “This is a very welcome development which NIIRTA has been lobbying for to give our town and city centres more support in these difficult times. This is an early Christmas present to both local traders and shoppers and we appreciate the efforts of Minister Kennedy in securing Executive agreement on this.”

The Minister concluded: “This freeze, combined with the package of measures to support retailers and consumers I announced on Monday, will give a much-needed boost to our local economy and encourage people to get the most out of our town and city centres this Christmas.”

The freeze on car parking will be for the remainder for this budget period, i.e. until the end of March 2015. 

For full details of the measures announced on Monday 5 November 2012 please visit nidirect

Executive announces £200million economy and jobs initiative

The Executive has announced a £200million economy and jobs initiative to support people, businesses and investment.

The new measures, which include support for more than 4,600 people through skills training and employability, are additional to the commitments in the Executive’s Programme for Government and Economic Strategy.

Welcoming the measures, First Minister Peter Robinson said: “I am pleased that we are able to announce this package which will provide a significant boost to the economy in Northern Ireland and provide employment, particularly for our young people and those who have been out of work for long periods. 

“This initiative comes on top of the £26million in additional funding recently announced as part of Delivering Social Change ‘Signature Projects’ and again shows that by working together the Executive continues to deliver on our Programme for Government commitment to grow the economy and contribute to rising levels of employment by supporting the promotion of over 25,000 new jobs." 

The deputy First Minister said: “The Executive is responding flexibly to the needs of those hit hardest by the recession and taking action to ensure those out of work have access to the right training, skills and education opportunities. These employment measures are particularly focused on the needs of young people to help them get into work. 

“The Executive is already committed to delivering over £5billion of capital investment in the current budget period. To boost employment in the construction sector this package will deliver a range of new measures to improve our schools, roads and accelerate nearly £60million of capital projects.”

Supporting People

Ministers are taking action to ensure that those out of work have access to the right training, skills and education opportunities. They are particularly focused on the needs of young people and other disadvantaged groups.

There will be waged employment opportunities for 1,700 young people of a minimum of six months duration within either the private, public or voluntary and community sectors. 

Around 1,100 over-50s, who have been out of work for more than 12 months, will take up temporary paid employment of up to 26 weeks in the Community and Voluntary Sector. 

Further employer engagement with ApprenticeshipsNI will mean up to 900 additional young people will participate in the Youth Employment Scheme.

An additional 500 undergraduate Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths places will be funded each year, bringing the total increase in STEM places to 1,200 by 2015. This will enhance the skills base in priority areas for the NI economy. There will also be 150 fully funded PhD places and 20 bursaries for Aerospace MSc students.

A further 500 work experience placements/training opportunities for young people will be provided across the public sector as part of DEL’s Steps to Work Programme.

Supporting Businesses

The small business rate relief scheme will be extended to provide around 3500 business ratepayers with a 20% discount.

A new Invest NI ‘Skills Growth’ scheme will be introduced for small businesses (up to 50 employees) which would provide 50% grant towards training costs. 

Car parking charges in towns and city centres will be frozen until at least 2015.

An additional £15million will be available to ensure that farmers receive more money in their Single Farm payment in 2013. This will generate additional spending power for farm business from the end of 2013 and into 2014.

There will be a new ‘Finance Voucher’ scheme to help SMEs access the specialist support they need to grow their businesses.

Streamlined and ‘fast-track’ application & approval processes will be brought in for many Invest NI business support schemes.

Supporting Investment

The Executive is already committed to delivering over £5billion of capital investment in the current budget period. To boost employment in the construction sector there will be several new measures.

More than £40million will be available to deliver a range of projects in the current financial year which will support the construction sector. This funding will see further resources being made available to:

• improve the schools estate (including addressing the consequences of the fire damage to Arvalee Special School);
• undertake further roads structural maintenance; street lighting maintenance; emerging works along the Antrim Coast Road; 
• £8million additional funding for the housing co-ownership scheme.

The maintenance budget for the Schools Estate will be increased by £10million in 2013/14.

Nearly £60million of capital spending will be accelerated to allow projects to commence in 2013/14 rather than 2014/15.

A further £10million will be available in both 2013/14 and 2014/15 through the housing co-ownership scheme. 

An extra £5.7milion of funding will go to the Tourism Development Scheme which could deliver total investment of over £27.5million, supporting over 450 jobs in the construction phase and creating or sustaining approximately a further 50 tourism jobs once complete.

There will be further reforms to planning, including changes to the Permitted Development Rights regime which enables developers to undertake works without the need to apply for planning permission and revisions to the structure of planning fees to alleviate the financial burden on developers.

Ministers will be available to provide more details of the measures under the particular control of their Departments in the coming days.

#AskDE Twitter Q&A - Transcript of questions and answers

Education Minister John O'Dowd has taken part in his second Twitter Q&A.

Minister O'Dowd answered 29 questions over an hour on a range of topics. The full transcript of the Q&A is available below.

Question 1 from @he4therw4t5on

#AskDE ask the minister if he would instruct DE to actually ask teachers,principals,schools what they need? #valueourprofessionalism

#AskDE ETI chief inspector highlighted leadership as an area 4 improvement in schools.why is support 4 heads so poor in NI? #keytosuccess

Answer

@he4therw4t5on Primary Teaching Principal Release Time also allows two days/week to focus on leadership, management & admin duties #AskDE

Question 2 from @Gary_NI

Why are pupils still being segregated? This is bad economics and anything but a shared future. #AskDE

Answer

@Gary_NI Parents have right to state type of ed they wish for their child, faith-based or not. Schools provision based on demand #AskDE

Question 3 from @cas_ni

nijobfinder.co.uk lists 750+ programming jobs weekly. What will the Minister do to increase Computer Science in schools #askDE

Answer

@cas_ni I’m keen for pupils to have access to computer science. Curriculum gives schools flexibility to provide it if demand exists #AskDE

Question 4 from @the_pj88

@niexecutive ca bhfuil na postanna do muinteoiri nua? Ta mo chailin ag fanacht bliain go leith ar la oibre amhain i scoil ar bith. #askde

Translation - Where are the jobs for new teachers? My girlfriend is waiting a year and a half and hasn’t had a day’s work in any school.

Answer

@the_pj88 Plean le múinteoirí nua-cháilithe a fhostú le cur le litearthacht agus uimhearthacht á phlé. Eolas ón RO gan mhoill #ASkDE

Translation - Details of plan to employ newly qualified teachers to boost literacy and numeracy being worked out. DE will advise ASAP

Question 5 from @AaronECarson

Why is the Dickson plan in Lurgan being altered what's the benefits of joining 3 good schools. Surely teachers will lose jobs #AskDE

Answer

@AaronECarson Area planning will point way forward. No decisions made yet, consultation open until tomorrow: ow.ly/eGYRa #AskDE

Question 6 from @he4ther4t5on

#askde ask the minister y there hasnt been enough progress towards"integrated"education in NI?good friday agreement #sharedorsharedoutfuture

Answer

@he4therw4t5on I support parental choice and will aim to provide integrated schools where demand is clear #AskDE

Question 7 from @EFCCG

#AskDE What role can social enterprise play in generating entrepreneurs that contribute to local economy whilst still in education?

Answer

@EFCCG Social enterprise important part of economy & pupils can learn Business Studies to encourage entrepreneurship from young age #AskDE

Question 8 from @Glenbhoy67

#AskDE-John, what steps will you take to assist newly qualified teachers in obtaining necessary teaching experience/employment?

Answer

@glenbhoy I’m keen to give new teachers as much support as poss. We have cut pay for retirees as subs & continue to explore options #AskDE

Question 9 from @AndreaGibson7

#AskDE How do you envisage funding future research in youth work? How can effective academic programmes be developed without research?

Answer

@andreagibson Youth work integral part of education. New policy open for consultation now, share your views at ow.ly/eJHbh #AskDE

Question 10 from @stephenpglenn
What does the Minister intend to do to prevent homophobic bullying in our schools? #AskDE

Answer

@stephenpglenn Homophobic bullying is wrong. ALL bullying is wrong. Every school must have a policy on tackling it. #AskDE

Question 11 from @the_pj88

#askde why haven't you regulated uniform pricing? Passing buck onto boards of governors while families suffer is not good enough. Act now.

Answer

@the_pj88 DE guidance clear: schools should consider VFM & not disadvantage pupils from poorer backgrounds by overpricing uniforms #AskDE

follow up question to 11 from @the_pj88

@niexecutive I appreciate that, but when they are flouting the guidance to the extent they are, you can't just say "we tried" #askde

Answer

@the_pj88 If guidance continues to be ignored then I will look at introducing legislation to curb uniform costs #AskDE

Question 12 from @jamesconolly16

@niexecutive #AskDe why is the bible taught in primary schools when there is no evidence to support its teachings?

Answer

@JamesConnolly16 RE teaches children about various religions, helping them respect cultural diversity and form own spiritual views #AskDE

Question 13 from @Wiseabap

#askde - why no mention of international youth work in the draft 'Priorities for Youth' policy? Huge learning comes from intl experiences

Answer

@Wiseabap I recognise value of international youth work opportunities and think these should continue #AskDE

Question 14 from @murraybarry

#AskDE a chara, an aithníonn tú go bhfuil an-obair ag dul ar aghaidh in Airneal na Gaelscoilíochta, an réiteach fad-téarma iad sruthanna?

Translation - Dear sir/madam, do you realise that there is great work going on in the Irish-medium sector, are (Irish-medium) streams the long term solution?

Answer

@murraybarry tá mé tiomanta don ghaeloideachas & pléifidh mé le moltaí forbartha do scoileanna, sruthanna no aonaid #AskDE

Translation - I am committed to delivering education through medium of Irish & will consider proposals for schools, streams or units

Question 15 from @theslabber

#AskDE Is it department policy for schools to ask parents for money for 'school funds'?

Answer

@theslabber No. Schools receive funding depending on make-up and number of pupils. Up to schools if they request more from parents #AskDE

Question 16 from @ChrisJenkins90

#AskDE The Advisory Group on Shared Education doesnt report until February. Why isnt it feeding into Area-Based Planning process?

Answer

@ChrisJenkins90 Area plans will evolve to meet local demand. I will ensure Shared Ed Advisory Group’s findings are taken account of #AskDE

Question 17 from @McGowan1912

#AskDE what is the minister planning to to do to help parents of children with special needs,especially in disadvantaged areas?

Answer

@McGowan1912 Special Education funding protected & new policy being developed. I’m committed to ensuring equality of access for ALL #AskDE

Question 18 from @ChrisJenkins90

#AskDE ESA has duty to facilitate: "the development of education provided in an Irish speaking school." Fine, but what about integrated too?

Answer

@ChrisJenkins90 The same duty applies for integrated education #AskDE

Question 19 from @AidantCampbell

#AskDE how will DE ensure a balance between cutting costs and maintaining schools in rural areas vital to sustain rural communities.

Answer

@AidantCampbell Children in rural areas will not be disadvantaged. We are working towards vision of sustainable provision for all #AskDE

Question 20 from @s7teach

#AskDE Will the minister make a siginicant investment in leadership training given chief inspector's report

Answer

@s7teach Teacher education as a whole under review, Leadership Development a key priority in this going forward #AskDE

Question 21 from @McGowan1912

#AskDE what are your plans for all grammar schools? Will the ESA bill treat all sectors equally?

Answer

@McGowan1912 All schools and sectors will be treated equally #AskDE

Question 22 from @The RowYouKnow

@niexecutive Has the Minister been able to give any further consideration to the proposed amalgamation of #SWBelfast Primary Schools #AskDE

Answer

@TheRowYouKnow Area planning will ensure right schools are in right place to meet the needs of children, including in S Belfast #AskDE

Question 23 from @mc_elhill

#AskDE How does Minister see DE contributing to cross departmental Autism Strategy out of The Autism Act 2011? #autism #Aspergers

Answer

@mc_elhill DE working with DHSSPS to progress Autism Strategy and improve services and support for children on Autistic Spectrum #AskDE

Question 24 from @TheRowYouKnow

@niexecutive No parental choice of post primary provision in #southbelfast Integrated or Grammar - is this equality? #AskDE

Answer

@TheRowYouKnow Area planning will take account of parental preference when considering need for particular school types in any area #AskDE

Question 25 from @TheRowYouKnow

@niexecutive Pls issue free travel passes to all post primary children in #southbelfast NRAs in attempt to reduce absenteeism #AskDE

Answer

@TheRowYouKnow DE has active strategy to cut absenteeism. Transport assistance available only to those who qualify #AskDE

Question 26 from @MaryTreatTicket

#AskDE Are you ever going to sort out the mess that is the Transfer system / 11+? Why haven't you made this a priority??? #AskDE

Answer

@MaryTreatTicket DE guidance on transfer to p/primary clear. Majority of schools adhere. No need for unregulated testing at 10 & 11 #AskDE

Question 27 from @dmchugh675

#askDE How will DE support schools in areas with high levels of deprivation to address the 'digital divide'? #niedchat

Answer

@dmchugh675 c2k network covers ALL schools. I’m committed to ensuring equal access to digital technologies in school for all pupils #AskDE

Question 28 from @MrMalcontent

#askDE Over 100 Teachers gathered in Stranmillis in Friday night for CPD of a different kind. Can you support us? #niedchat #tmbelfast #tmnw

Answer

@MrMalcontent Future of CPD is currently under consideration as part of review of teacher education #AskDE

Question 29 from @jeni_mcguff

#AskDE how did you get to where you are now? I'm just coming out of college and want a career in educ. (can I come work for you, please?)

Answer

@jeni_mcguff I’m an elected MLA & appointed as Minister. Ask your careers advisor about a career in education or civil service #AskDE

Submit your question directly to the Education Minister via Twitter

Education Minister John O’Dowd will be live on Twitter at 11.15am on Thursday 25 October answering your questions.

 

Education Minister John O'Dowd



You can submit your question now via the hashtag #AskDE. The Minister will respond to as many education-related questions as time permits via the @niexecutive Twitter feed.

If you are not able to be online at 11.15am on Thursday to see the responses live, don’t worry. All responses will remain on the @niexecutive timeline and under the hashtag #AskDE. A full transcript will also be published on this blog.

So if you have a question for the Minister, please do submit it via #AskDE and the Minister will do his best to respond.

Users should submit no more than two questions each. This will enable as many people as possible to have a chance to take part and have their query answered.

You can also submit your question in Irish. Any Irish tweets that the Minister is able to cover in the hour available will be answered in Irish. These tweets will be translated into English in the transcript that will be posted here after the Q&A has finished.

The Minister will respond to as many tweets as possible in the time available. If your particular tweet is not responded to, it may be the case that the topic is covered by a different response, so do please read them all.

Please note we’ve kept the questions submitted for the postponed #AskDE in June. They will be considered equally with any submitted from now.

Sports Minister congratulates Portaferry cyclist James Brown

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has congratulated Portaferry cyclist James Brown on winning a bronze medal in the Paralympic Games.

The Minister said: "This is a terrific achievement for James to come third in the Individual B Time Trial Final with an impressive time of 31:13:00. James' bronze medal brings the number of medals won by our local athletes up to 6 and Team Ireland's medal count up 11 medals - overall this was another fantastic performance and there will be more to come over the next few days.

"I would also like to commend Ballykelly's Sally Brown for her great race this evening. Even though Sally was not on the winner's podium, she is still a winner in our eyes and has provided us with tremendous enjoyment and pride."

Foster congratulates McIlroy on second major win

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has congratulated RoryMcIlroy on winning his second major title at the US PGA Championship, KiawahIsland.

Congratulating Rory on his latest win, Arlene Foster said: "The international spotlight is once again shining on the outstanding ability of our major-winning golfing champions. To win a second major title is no mean feat, and to do so at the age of 23 is an amazing achievement.

"Rory's win, combined with the recent success of the Irish Open, which saw record-breaking crowds through the gates of Royal Portrush, highlights how golf is continuing to offer Northern Ireland global exposure.

"Through golf tourism, an estimated £14m is generated for the economy every year, but as a result of the Irish Open we anticipate that this figure will rise sharply. The tournament not only showcased our golf but also other aspects of Northern Ireland, such as our friendly people, fantastic food,music and scenery.

"Yet again our local golfers have shown that they can compete with the world's best. As they continue to raise the profile, more people from around the world will come to Northern Ireland, to play the courses that our local golfers enjoy, and they will spend their money in the local economy."

The Minister continued: "Rory's success at the US PGA Championship is a fitting end to an amazing period for sport with Team GBNI producing an outstanding performance at the Olympics. Our sporting champions are great ambassadors for Northern Ireland and it is our responsibilityto capitalise on their success.

"The Northern Ireland Tourist Board and Tourism Ireland are both working to make the most of the opportunities that our local stars are creating, to encourage the world to see for themselves why we are the home of champions."

Sports Minister attends spectacular opening of the Olympic Games

Sports Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín, has attended the Opening Ceremony for the London 2012 Olympic Games along with sports ministers from across the globe.

Speaking at the spectacular opening to the Games of the 30th Olympiad at the Olympic Stadium in Stratford in East London, the Minister said: “It is hard to believe after so much work on the part of the organisers and of the athletes who will now compete over the next couple of weeks, that the Olympic Games are finally here.

“There is no doubt that being part of the greatest sporting event on earth is a once in a life-time opportunity for many of us to witness and participate in especially when it is all happening so close to home.

“Tonight at the opening ceremony, nine of our local schools who have been involved in the London 2012 Education Programme ‘Get Set’ are forming a guard of honour for competing athletes as they leave the Olympic Village on their way to the Stadium. And two local choirs - Phil Kids and Jam - are part of the ‘Isles of Wonder’ film along with choirs from England, Scotland and Wales.

“The opening ceremony was also shown live on the Big Screens at Belfast City Hall and in Derry and during the Games all the action will be at available to view here as well.”

Praising the athletes from the north of Ireland who are part of Team Ireland and Team GB, the Minister said: “We have 20 local sportsmen and women competing for either the Ireland team or British team over the next 16 days. Each of these athletes has given their all to get to this level and we will be cheering them on as they take on the world’s best in table tennis, judo, hockey, rowing, cycling, canoeing, sailing, triathlon, swimming, boxing and eventing. I wish all the very best of luck to all of the athletes from the island of Ireland in their individual events.”

Recognising the wide-range of Irish involvement in preparation for the Games, including the all-Ireland Olympic Torch Relay, the Minister said: “An event of this size and scale could not happen without volunteers. It comes off the back of a hugely successful and inclusive all-Ireland Torch Relay. Almost 500 local games makers are playing their part in ensuring a smooth running and successful Olympic and Paralympic Games. This is a fantastic opportunity for all of them and their experience in London will be invaluable for next year’s City of Culture and the World Police and Fire Games.

“I hope everyone enjoys the opening ceremony and the feast of sport to come over the next couple of weeks.”

Nine local schools formed a Guard of Honour for teams of athletes en route to Olympic Park for the Opening Ceremony. They were:

• Sri Lanka - St Patrick’s and St Brigid’s Primary School, Ballycastle;
• Suriname - St Catherine’s College, Armagh;
• Swaziland - Ballee Community High School, Ballymena;
• Sweden - Christ the Redeemer Primary School, Belfast;
• Philippines - Dundonald Primary School;
• Jordan - Belfast Boy’s Middle School;
• Jordan - Oakgrove Integrated College, Derry;
• Kuwait/Saudi Arabia - Park Hall integrated College, Antrim; and
• Philippines - Orangefield High School, Belfast.

Ní Chuilín pays tribute to the Torchbearers

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the third day of the Olympic Torch Relay in the north.


Speaking on the morning the Torch set off on its journey to Newry, the Minister said: "The planning of the all-Ireland Torch Relay has been years in the preparation, with many people and communities coming together to plan details such as the route, the Torchbearers and the celebrations. Last night's event in Derry showcased a vibrant, youthful city coming together to celebrate in the Olympic spirit.


"Now it is the turn of cities, towns and villages such as Fivemiletown, Caledon, Armagh, Banbridge and Newry to join in with one of the greatest global sporting occasions.


"Many of the Torchbearers have inspirational stories to tell. Amongst them are the oldest Torchbearer here, Bob Lingwood, and the youngest - Hannah Rainey. Bob, who will be carrying the Torch in Omagh, was nominated for his work in his local community. Hannah, who will be in Lisburn, was nominated for her fundraising and dedication. I wish them both well, along with the hundreds of other people who are carrying the Flame on its journey.


"The Olympic Games are about celebrating both sport and culture and perhaps becoming involved in something you might not have been before. This is reflected in the many events and activities taking place along the route. For example, there are the Olympic Challenge sports taster sessions in Armagh; and in Portadown the five sports hubs with athletics, climbing walls, street entertainment and Samba bands, as well as a balloon release by young people involved in Craigavon Intercultural Programme's Inspire project. I am sure the Olympic Games and the all-Ireland Torch Relay will inspire people to become involved in sport or their local communities long after London 2012 has finished.


"Tonight will see the Torch Relay finish in Newry, where I am sure there is still much celebrating to be done."


For information on the Torch route please visit www.london2012.com/torch-relay/route

All-Ireland Olympic Torch relay crosses Derry Peace Bridge

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has joined thousands of local people to welcome the all-Ireland Olympic Torch relay across the Peace Bridge in Derry.


The Minister said: “It has been another day of memorable moments in the all-Ireland Olympic Torch relay as the flame travels west of the Bann. Its journey across the Peace Bridge saw the Torch unify both banks of the city and all sections of the community together in celebration. The Torch was greeted by a parade which recognised local people's commitment to the development of youth through sporting pursuits. The colourful flag procession has promoted the Olympic message of ‘peace, unity and friendship’ to a global audience.


“Derry will today again show the world an exciting preview of its 2013 City of Culture offering. As the Olympic Cauldron is lit during a celebration concert, I know the city will light up the Olympic spirit for everyone."

Ní Chuilín cheers on Olympic Torch on second leg of its journey

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has applauded the Olympic Torch on the second day of its journey here.


Speaking after the all-Ireland Torch Relay left Portrush the Minister said: "I am sure all those who attended last night's evening celebration in Portrush had a great time. This is what the all-Ireland Torch Relay really represents - people coming together to share in the Olympic experience and be part of the Olympic spirit. It is a celebration of sport, arts and culture. The Torch will pass close by many of our homes and work places and I hope people will come out to cheer on the Torchbearers. Many of these people are members of the local community, people we know who have done extraordinary things - be this in their sporting field or through facing challenging situations.


"The second leg on the Torch Relay will take in some stunning scenery, and I know there are also a number of exciting events and festivities to help it along its way. The event at Downhill Beach as archers send flaming arrows into the sea promises to be spectacular. I am sure the Olympic flame and Torchbearers will be cheered on as they make their way through places such as Castlerock, Ballykelly and Greysteel.


"This is an opportunity to share with a global audience our towns, villages and cities. The Celtic Fusion Concert at the Ebrington site and Olympic carnival parade, which are part of one of our local Inspire projects, will be a perfect opportunity to showcase what Derry has to offer for the 2013 City of Culture, as well as the exciting Evening Celebration Concert. I am sure many will watch the Games unfold at the Live Sites or Big Screens in Belfast and Derry."

Excitement growing around 2012 Games as torchbearers and street route revealed

Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilín has given details of the street routes and the inspirational torchbearers who will carry the Olympic Flame when it visits Ireland in June.

 


The Olympic Torch relay begins in East Belfast on Sunday the 3 June and over the course of the relay it will be within ten miles of 95% of the local population.



Speaking at Stormont, which is part of the torch route, Sports Minister, Carál Ni Chuilín said: "This is a real opportunity for the entire island to shine as the torch visits between 3 June and 7 June. The relay will showcase and celebrate our torchbearers who are inspirational people who do so much for their local communities.


"As the torch journeys across the country, from Belfast to Derry to Aughnacloy, Banbridge and Larne over the four day celebration, the eyes of the world will be on our beautiful landscape and iconic buildings and our amazing cultural and sporting achievements.



"Excitement is growing now that local people can begin to plan where the torchbearers will be carrying the torch in their areas and plan to celebrate the arrival in their communities."



The torch will visit Dublin on Wednesday 6 June 2012. 

Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring said: "The visit of the Olympic Flame in June will be a wonderful opportunity for Ireland to be even more closely involved with the 2012 London Olympic Games and for Irish people to be part of the biggest sporting event in the world."


The Minister added "Tourism also has the opportunity to benefit from the international media focus on the island of Ireland as the Olympic Torch Relay comes here for the first time and I know the tourism agencies will be doing everything they can to maximise the benefits."

More information about the streets through which the Torchbearers will carry the Olympic Flame is available from the Olympic Torch Relay - London2012 website 

The Torchbearers announced today include those that were successful through the public nomination processes run by LOCOG and the Presenting Partners, Coca Cola, Lloyds TSB and Samsung. Each Torchbearer has also had confirmed the details of what day and in which community in the North they will be carrying the Flame. LOCOG has endeavoured to slot Torchbearers within an hour of their nomination address so family and friends can cheer them on. 

The Torchbearers are listed by the community they are carrying the Olympic Flame in at Olympic Torch Relay - London2012 website together with a selection of their inspiring stories. The remaining Torchbearers will be confirmed over the coming months.



An average of 115 Torchbearers a day will carry the Olympic Flame en route to the Olympic Stadium on 27 July 2012.



The overnight stops and evening celebrations in the North of Ireland leg of the Olympic Torch Relay are Newry, Derry, Portrush and Belfast. These are taking place between the 3rd and 7th of June 2012. Further information about celebrations and is available from Local District Councils.