Up to half of the entire workforce at Warrenpoint Harbour could lose their jobs if Britain quits the EU, it has been claimed.

Peter Conway, Chief Executive of Warrenpoint Harbour and the Northern Ireland representative for the British Ports Association, issued the stark warning and warned the public not to “simply sleepwalk” into a so-called Brexit.

He said such a move will have catastrophic implications for Northern Ireland as a whole, and particularly those in the border region.

Outlining the issues that would affect Warrenpoint port, he said: “Trade with our partners in the European Union is the lifeblood of this harbour.  Forty per cent of our trade is with the Republic of Ireland alone.  Trade through Warrenpoint goes north and south of the border. Imagine if the UK lost its free trade status within the EU. Why should any business bother coming to Warrenpoint if there are tariffs when they could just ship to a ROI port unencumbered?”

“I am seriously concerned about the administrative nightmare we would face,” he continued.

“I’ve been speaking to businesses across the EU and they’re already getting jittery about what an EU exit would mean for their relationship with our harbour.  At the moment we’re thriving with animal feed grain coming from France, Germany and Denmark, steel from Portugal and Spain and timber from Estonia, Latvia and Finland.  Furthermore, we export foodstuffs including dairy products, beef and poultry as well as building materials and machinery to mainland Europe.  Any customs clearance and tariffs would make us instantly less competitive and it would also be costly to process any additional customs administration,” he said.

Mr Conway claims the implications of the next month’s referendum “could not be greater or more worrying”.

“We have 200 men and women working here every day and if we lost that 40 per cent trade with the Republic of Ireland, I would expect this to have a detrimental impact on jobs at the harbour, and as many as half of jobs would be under threat. It’s a heart-breaking and deeply troubling prospect.

“This is not scaremongering or exaggeration and I agree there is room for improvement with regards to the EU’s administrative processes. For many years, the port has lobbied to get Northern Ireland the best deal possible in Brussels and we intend to continue doing that.  People shouldn’t simply sleepwalk into a so-called Brexit. The implications are catastrophic for Northern Ireland as a whole and particularly those who operate in the border region,” he added, while urging the public to vote on June 23rd to remain in the EU.

Martha McGrath, the Chair of Macmillan Cancer Support’s fundraising committee in Newry, has received a Macmillan national volunteer award, after helping raise more than £1.3 million for the leading charity over the past 16 years.

Under Martha’s leadership, the Newry and Mourne fundraising team has become Macmillan’s biggest and most successful committee in Northern Ireland, which is why she was nominated for the Richard Hambro Award at the recent Macmillan Volunteers’ Conference in Hinckley, Leicestershire. The award, named after one of the charity’s treasurers, is for individuals who inspire others to make a difference.

A busy grandmother, Martha began fundraising for Macmillan after hearing about the wide range of services and support offered by the cancer charity in Northern Ireland.

She says, “When I was looking after my Aunt, who had terminal cancer, I felt so isolated and lonely.  I would have loved to have someone I could talk to.

“I was invited to a Macmillan event, where I met a man who had been helped so much by his Macmillan nurse.  She’d helped get him a suit, when he lost weight.  More than that, she’d kept him going.  He was in no doubt of that and neither was I.  That’s when I knew it was the charity I wanted to support.”

Over the last 16 years, Martha and her fellow committee members have tried their hand at all sorts of fundraising feats.  Last year, the team organised a Kube challenge event, based on the ITV quiz show, and raised £20,000 in one night.

Despite this, she was surprised to be nominated for an award and says:  “I certainly never expected it because we really are a team.

“There are so many great volunteers who give up so much of their time and for so many different reasons.

“No matter how little, or how much you do, as a Macmillan volunteer you can be sure you are helping people living with cancer.  That’s what I tell all our volunteers and we are always on the lookout for new committee members and new fundraising ideas.”

Heather Monteverde, Head of Macmillan Services in Northern Ireland, says:

“Macmillan was set up by a volunteer over 100 years ago, and our volunteers are crucial in helping us to ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.

“We wanted to use Volunteers’ Week to say a well-deserved ‘thank you’ to all the people who give their time to help us. We also wanted to thank Martha, in particular, for her incredible fundraising efforts to help people affected by cancer in the Newry and Mourne area.

“At Macmillan, we have a variety of volunteering roles and we always like to hear from people that might be interested in helping us out because – whether it’s minutes or months, hours or days – any time you can spare really will make a difference.”

If you’re interested in finding out about how to volunteer for Macmillan please visit www.macmillan.org.uk/volunteer, emailvolunteering@macmillan.org.uk or call 0300 1000 200.

Two  of the area’s most dedicated volunteers have been nominated for a Shining Light Volunteer of the Year Award in the Confederation of Community Groups (CCG) Volunteering Awards of 2016.

Unsung heroes Damien Martin and Aoibheann Byrne have been nominated for their tireless efforts in bringing the lifesaving Crossmaglen Community and District First Responders initiative to fruition.

The scheme itself has also been nominated for a Community project award in recognition of its vital service to the local and wider community.

Damien is credited with spearheading the lengthy campaign to implement the scheme in the area, having first come up with the idea while undertaking a course in Emergency Medical Technology in Dublin.  Since 2014 he was the driving force behind a lobbying group which fought to get the project off the ground and both Damien and Aoibheann’s involvement in a host of fundraising drives secured the necessary training and equipment for the First Responders group.

The Crossmaglen and District First Responders scheme finally went live last November and has been providing a vital lifeline for the area ever since, with trained volunteers dispatched dispatched by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service control centre to attend medical emergencies throughout Crossmaglen, Culloville, Creggan, Glassdrummond, Silverbridge and Cullyhanna, to provide treatment to casualties as they await the arrival of appropriate emergency services.

Damien also works with the Cycle Against Suicide initiative, organising SpinOff events which bring hundreds of cyclists through the community to help spread the message that “It’s OK not to Feel OK and it’s Absolutely OK to ask for help!”

Aoibheann’s much deserved Shining Light nomination recognises her sterling work behind-the-scenes for the First Responders scheme as well as her efforts in running the weekly Culloville Luncheon Club  – a vital social outlet for the elderly members of the local community.

Damian Martin

Describing his nomination as “absolutely humbling” Damien told The Examiner he feels it is testament to the hard work done by all the volunteer First Responders who are providing essential life saving assistance to the residents of the area.

“Our nominations are a credit to each of our volunteers who give up their time to ensure cover is maintained on a 24 hour basis,” said the First Responders front man.

“It is also very fitting to see Aoibheann Byrne receive a nomination for her work behind-the-scenes with the group and the running of Culloville Luncheon Club where the elderly members of the community come together to socialise.”

Aoibeann Byrne

South Armagh Sinn Fein MLA Megan Fearon has offered her congratulations to the Crossmaglen First Responders on their Community Service nomination.

“It’s fantastic to see this excellent initiative being recognised in this way,” she said.

“The commitment and dedication of the First Responders, ordinary men and women who give up their time to help those in their community when they are most in need, is inspirational.

“Congratulations to everyone involved in the group. Awards aside, your hard work and commitment is appreciated by everyone in the community.”

Sinn Fein Councillor Terry Hearty said he was delighted to see the First Responders being honoured with a “well deserved” nomination.

“In an area with shamefully poor ambulance cover they provide a vital service to the local community at a time when people need it most,” he added.

“Hopefully this nomination will not only highlight the excellent work done by these dedicated volunteers but also shine a light on why such a group is necessary in this area.”

The ‘Shining Light’ Community Volunteering Awards were established by the Confederation in memory of Patricia Graham, a dedicated member of the staff team who sadly passed away in 2009. The Awards celebrate the contribution of all unsung heroes across Newry and Mourne and have grown year on year to become a keynote event in the community/voluntary calendar for the area. This year’s ceremony will take place in the Canal Court Hotel, Newry on Friday 3rd June, forming part of Celebrating Volunteers Week.

A multi-million pound housing development is being planned for Bessbrook village by award winning property group, Lotus Homes NI.

The ambitious proposals are for 246 new homes to be built on a site at McKnights Hill, to the rear of Derramore Crescent and Terrace and west of Brooklawns – including the entire area stretching as far as the Bessbrook River.

A planning application for a mix of 166 semi-detached and 80 detached homes is currently under consideration by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

The proposal shows all homes would be complete with garages and private driveways as well as a new right-hand turning lane and site access from McKnights Hill, along with associated site works and a children’s play area.

Lotus Homes is the developer behind the highly sought after Mill Meadows development on the Millvale Road and has won the ‘Residential Development of the Year’ award for its Lotus Village, based on the site of a former shoe factory on the Newry Road, Banbridge, last year.

If approved, the Bessbrook plan will also represent a major boost to the local construction industry.

An exciting local archaeological project recently undertaken by the Ring of Gullion Landscape Partnership, in conjunction with Queen’s University Belfast’s Centre for Archaeological Fieldwork (CAF), is set to feature on BBC One’s Homeground programme with Jo Scott this evening (Mon 23rd May).

The archaeological excavation at the site of a lost hillfort at Cornahove near Lough Ross took place over the last fortnight and a number of community groups, schools, heritage groups and sports groups have all been involved in digging into the past.

A host of local primary school children from schools across the area joined the professional archaeologists in uncovering secrets that have remained a mystery for thousands of years.

Speaking to The Examiner about the innovative project, Landscape Partnership Manager, Darren Rice said the dig had captured the minds of all the young people involved.

“Thirteen schools have been involved in the dig, with each school given the chance to do some actual digging at the site as well as learn how to measure and record any artefacts found,” explained Darren.

“Each school had an hour and a half on site. The Lead Archaeologist gave them a tour of the site, explaining what ringforts were, the surrounding landscape and why ringforts came to be there. The classes were split into two, with half taken along to a trench where they were able to dig for artefacts and half taken into the classroom and shown all the artefacts which were found and how to measure and record them.  The groups were swapped after half an hour to allow everyone to take part in the entire experience of an archaeological dig.

According to Darren “the kids loved it.

“They were all very enthusiastic and the group from Mullaghbawn Primary School who were filmed on Wednesday were brilliant -  very excited.”

The archaeological dig has turned up lots of interesting pieces, including several pieces of quartz, some 19th century pottery and, perhaps most interesting – lazybeds for potatoes in the fort itself which are estimated to be around 350 to 400 years old.

“The side of the site has also been excavated so the archaeologists know what type of fort it is, what classification it is, which is very exciting to find out as well,” added Darren.

“It has been a great project for kids to be involved in – where they’re actively engaged in uncovering pieces of history. One parent in particular told us her 11 year old boy, who was previously not interested in anything, has talked about nothing else since taking part!”

The fantastic local archaeological project will feature on BBC One Homeground with Jo Scott this evening (Monday 23rd May) at 7.30pm, ahead of a special Results Night which is set to take place on Tuesday 24th May from 7pm to 8.30pm. People are very welcome to come along on Tuesday night to the Cornahove site on results nite, where all the artefacts found will be proudly displayed.

Ahead of next month’s UEFA European Championships, a young fiddle player from Camlough is evoking memories of past glory and taking Republic of Ireland fans on a trip down memory lane with his amazing remix of the squad’s anthem from the 1990 World Cup – ‘Put ‘Em Under Pressure’.

Niall Murphy had initially been commissioned by iRadio to create a soundtrack for its coverage of Euro 2016 but decided to take the challenge a step further and add a video to accompany the tune.   The result is mesmerizing, with the fiddler reproduced eleven times – representing each player on the field – as each new part of the medley is introduced.

The 24-year-old says the idea came from a version of Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ that he put together earlier this year while experimenting with a phone app.  That creation subsequently went viral and prompted the radio station’s request.

Speaking to The Examiner from Derry where he was hosting fiddle workshops for International Fiddle Day, Niall says creating this latest piece was “trial and error” but following the positive reaction to his Thriller creation, this time he wanted to up the ante and adopt a more professional method on the production.

Since posting on his Facebook page on Friday night, the piece has been viewed more than 40,000 times.  Niall says he is surprised at the reaction it has received, adding “hopefully it keeps going.”

With the chants of ‘We’re all part of Jackie’s Army’ and ‘Olé Olé Olé’, the instantly recognizable, catchy tune is sure to fire up football fans when Ireland begin their Euro 2016 campaign against Sweden on Monday 13th June.

“I think a lot of people want to hear the first ten opening notes.  It brings them back to 1990 when the whole country sort of shut down for about three weeks when Ireland qualified [for the World Cup]. It brings back a lot of memories for people.”

Niall says working on the production it was hard to imagine what it would finish up like but said it is “a relief” that it has turned out well.

“It’s said music and sport don’t mix but I think this tune appeals to both music fans and football fans,” he added.

Currently touring with his Breaking Trad group, Niall is also involved in studio work with folk singer Cara Dillon, and continues to give lessons and host workshops both at home and across Europe.

His version of ‘Put ‘Em Under Pressure’ will soon be available on iTunes and is sure to attract copious amounts of airplay throughout Ireland’s upcoming Euro campaign.

Meanwhile, keep up to date with Niall’s gigs, workshops and recording etc on his new website www.niallmurphymusic.com or via his Facebook page Niall Murphy Music.

A very special Anniversary Dance is set to take place next  month to celebrate one of Crossmaglen’s longest running voluntary services which has been at the heart of the local community for five decades.  The much-loved Rainbow Club, set up in 1966 with the purpose of providing social and recreational activities for people with disabilities and older people, will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a dress dance in the Carrickdale Hotel on Sunday 12th June.   The remarkable 50 year feat will be fittingly celebrated with dinner and dance from 1pm – 6pm,with  music provided by Country Harmony.

Ahead of the special occasion, The Examiner spoke to tireless local volunteer Edna Hand, who has spent over 40 years offering her time and support to her local community via the Rainbow Group.

Edna told us how the club was set up by a few concerned, caring people who identified the need and could see the damaging effect of isolation on the disabled, their carers and the elderly.

Over the years Crossmaglen Rainbow Club has developed with changing needs and expectations but it remains a cross community venture which operates an “open door policy” to include anyone who may benefit from and enjoy friendship and support.

“The Thursday club is held in Cross Community Centre every Thursday at 8pm, with members travelling by bus and taxi to attend this important social outing,” explained Edna..

“At the club we have youth activities, music therapy, arts and crafts, conversation, quizzes and fun!,” she added.

“We run a bingo session for those who enjoy it, along with supper, live music and dancing and we have also enjoyed many birthday parties with our members over the years.

“We attend concerts regularly and travel as a large group who are well known in many venues and we also hold seasonal parties and holidays for our members and their carers,” she revealed.

The club also managed the Cosy Corner Playgroup for over 40 years, and throughout its time it has given children with special needs the opportunity to integrate from an early age.

“In the Rainbow Club we take a keen interest in the needs of the less able in our community and we campaigned for the retention and upgrading of Crossmaglen Day Centre,” continued Edna.

“The whole community supported this effort and we had a very successful outcome.

“We hope our club gives our members, young and not so young the opportunity to develop friendships and feel relaxed among their peer group and in wider society.

“We endeavour to normalise life for people with disability or difficulties, to encourage community integration and our goal is to provide friendship, activities and a space where members enjoy time among friends.”

Urging more young people to get involved in volunteering to experience for themselves the rewards of such a commitment, Edna encourages all young people in the area to come along to the Thursday night activities and give up their time for this wonderful club which has provided invaluable support to the elderly and disabled over the years.

Describing volunteers as the “lifeblood” of The Rainbow Club Edna revealed there was a need to recruit more young people onto the committee to enable the club to continue to provide vital support for the elderly and disabled for many years to come.

“We offer our opportunity to young people to come and volunteer at our Thursday club,” said the lifelong volunteer.

“This encourages normalisation and integration whilst giving a valuable experience to young people who enjoy it immensely.  Over the years, with changing lifestyles, we have found it difficult to recruit people who could join our committee -  a problem common to all committees at present.

Appealing for young volunteers to come forward, Edna said,

“As a long serving committee, we would welcome new members so if you could help please get in touch with us, you would be most welcome.

“We hope to be able to continue this work for generations to come – so if you can help – join us!”

Anyone interested in volunteering with the Rainbow Club is invited to come along to any of the Thursday evening sessions at Crossmaglen Community Centre or to contact any of the club’s committee members for more details.

The grateful volunteer also extended her heartfelt thanks to the entire community for its support over the last five decades and to the many individuals and groups who have donated money or food or helped out in any way.

“We also thank the founders and the many people who have served on the committee, all our local musicians and transport providers.  In this statutory sector we also thank Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and staff and The Southern Trust and their staff,” she added.

Tickets for the upcoming Anniversary Dance are €25 and will be available though committee members.

“We hope that all our friends and supporters will come along to share in this special occasion with our members and help us to mark this wonderful milestone of 50 years of service to the people of Crossmaglen and beyond.”

An attempt to force open an AED cabinet containing a life saving Defibrillator Device has been condemned as “shameful” and “dangerous.”

The Public Access Defibrillator cabinet situated in Crossmaglen was tampered with during the early hours of Saturday morning.  Thankfully, the attempt to open the cabinet was unsuccessful and the enclosed defibrillator remained intact.

The senseless prank prompted the Crossmaglen and District First Responders team, whose tireless efforts have facilitated the installation of the life-saving devices,  to issue an appeal to the public to be mindful of the AED cabinets in place throughout the district.

Posting on the group’s Facebook page, a spokesperson for the voluntary group said,

“Whether this was a prank or a drunken antic, PLEASE PLEASE consider that these are LIFE SAVING DEVICES. How would you feel if a member of your family needed one and there was none available because of a stupid act by somebody?”

The group also reminded people that all Public Access Defibrillator Devices are monitored by CCTV.

Damien Martin, who spearheaded the implementation of the First Responders in Crossmaglen and worked to procure the AED Cabinets locally said he was “dismayed” at the attack.

“Myself and the rest of our First Responder team fundraised thousands of pounds to ensure that we were able to place these devices into our four main towns and villages.”

“These are life saving devices and to see such an act is shameful. This puts a dampener on all the work we have been doing in the area over the last 16 months to ensure our community has every opportunity to receive emergency help when they need it.

His sentiments were echoed by local SDLP representative Pete Byrne who said,

“I can’t stress enough how dangerous mindless actions like this can be! This equipment, which has been hard fought for by the local community, is there to save lives. Any attempt to remove it or damage the cabinet could have a devastating effect should an emergency call arise.

“The First Responders have worked tirelessly to install four of these cabinets around South Armagh and acts like this can cause unwanted setbacks to their aims of having these life saving devices in every town and village.

“I would ask those responsible to please respect each and every one of these cabinets, you never know when one of your family members will need them.”

● USFC Quarter Final Cavan 2-16 Armagh 0-14

Cavan cruised into the semi-final of the Ulster Championship with a comfortable 2-16 to 0-14 win over a very disappointing Armagh at a sun-drenched Kingspan Breffni Park in front of an attendance in excess of 15,000.

Terry Hyland’s men were in charge for almost the whole 70 minutes once they got to grips with Armagh’s early scoring spell which had them ahead 3-1 inside 10 minutes. Cavan picked up a first win in the Ulster Championship since 2013 to set up a meeting with Tyrone who beat them in the league final.

Cavan dominated the first half, at the end of which the only surprising thing was that they had left Armagh in the match by only leading 1-9 to 0-7 despite their dominance.

The home side opened the scoring with the first of what was to become a 7 point haul for the magnificent Sean Johnston. But by the tenth minute points from Stefan Campbell (free) and a brace from Ethan Rafferty had Armagh ahead but not for long as two Johnston frees and a “45” from goalkeeper Ray Galligan nudged them in front and they quickly kicked on, Johnston floating over a neat point from play and McKiernan adding two more. Cavan were full of running and looked dangerous every time they broke out as they outscored Armagh 1-7 to 0-1 in a blistering 20 minute spell. The major score arrived in the 20th minute, the hosts hit the net when Martin Reilly raced clear down the left wing, cut in and fed Dara McVeety for a straightforward finish past debutant Orchard goalkeeper Paul Courtney.

Indeed the former Armagh outfielder who replaced the injured Paddy Morrison between the posts from the start was used in a most unusual and hitherto unseen roll as he took short kick-outs to defenders and then linked up to carry the move on upfield. The use of the keeper in this role did not go down well with the Orchard support as it looked in the opening half as if it was the only” game plan” on offer from the visitors. As a staunch Armagh supporter quipped after the game “the goalkeeper was our best attacking option of the first half” A terrific Tony Kernan point, his sides second from play, was followed by a converted “45” by Campbell to leave the interval deficit at a mere 5 points. Armagh had withdrawn two of their starting sextet of forwards Ciaran O’Hanlon and Colm Watters before the half hour mark replaced by Aaron Findon and Miceal McKenna.

Armagh began the second half brightly with points from Kernan and Campbell separated by a pointed Johnston free all inside the opening 3 minutes. Armagh then lost Charlie Vernon to injury replaced by Senan Connell. When Martin Reilly tucked away a penalty spot following a foul on late replacement Cian Mackey the deficit was stretched to 8 points 2-11 to 0-9 and Cavan looked set to cruise home but they had to withstand one major hairy moment before securing a safe passage.

The excellent Stefan Campbell who was Armagh’s go-to man all day (he finished with 8 points) was fouled for a penalty with the score at 2-12 to 0-12. The Armagh lifeline was switched off when Stefan’s weak penalty was saved by Galligan and the hosts immediately countered and Mackey set Johnston up for the killer score. It was a five-point swing as Johnston bagged his fourth and Brady his second within two minutes of that miss – 2-14 to 0-12.

Campbell (free) arrowed over his seventh with a disappointing match long over as any sort of contest; centre back Conor Moynagh popped over the winners’ 15th point a minute from the end of normal time. Campell (free) and McVeety traded late points as Cavan eased to the winning post.

Cavan’s pace and their extra quality in defence and a sense of purposeful, meaningful play was the big difference between the teams. For all their preparations and hard work Armagh were bereft of ideas getting back in numbers without any clear purpose as Cavan broke through them with ease. Two scoring forwards over the course of the game, 6 points from play tells it’s own tale for Armagh who in truth played like their divisional status should reflect as the upward spiral of Cavan continues as they celebrate their first Ulster win in 3 years.

It’s back to the drawing board for Kieran McGeeney and his men as they face up to a qualifier’s campaign to prolong the Summer..

Scorers for Cavan: S Johnston 0-7 (4fs), D McVeety 1-1, G McKiernan 0-3, M Reilly 1-0 (pen), J Brady 0-2, D Givney 0-1, C Moynagh 0-1

Scorers for Armagh: S Campbell 0-8 (2 45s, 3f), E Rafferty 0-4 (3fs), T Kernan 0-2,

Cavan: R Galligan, P Faulkner, K Clarke, R Dunne, F Flanagan, C Moynagh, Murray, T Corr, L Buchanan, D McVeety, G McKiernan, M Reilly, D Givney, M Argue, S Johnston

Subs: C Brady for Murray (46), E Keating for Argue (51), J Brady for Keating (BC, 54), K Brady for P Faulkner (65), G Smith for Johnston (66), L Buchanan for McKiernan (69).

Armagh: P Morison, J Morgan, C Vernon, M Shields, A Mallon, A Forker, C McKeever, B Donaghy, E Rafferty , R Grugan, T Kernan, C O’Hanlon, C Watters, S Campbell, G McParland.

Subs: A Findon for O’Hanlon (27), M McKenna for Watters (30), S Connell for Vernon (40), J McElroy for Rafferty (44), S Heffron for McElroy (BC, 50).

Referee: E Kinsella (Laois).

Sinn Féin councillor Terry Hearty has criticized Transport NI following the recent publication of its annual report to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, accusing the body of letting the people down and putting lives at risk.

“Under the Ministerial direction of Danny Kennedy, Transport NI have let the facilities and services they are responsible for in south Armagh get into such a state that it is no exaggeration to say they have put lives at risk.  Vulnerable people right through the entire winter were left with shoddy street lighting, children walking to and from Youth Clubs on busy roads had to do so in the dark, elderly people in estates were left with no sense of security and right across the area hundreds of lights were broken, while, bizarrely, others were left on all day and night,” the Councillor said.

“Through their failure to cut verges at junctions, empty gullies and repair damage to roads, they have acted totally recklessly when it comes to the health and safety of the people of the area.  Danny Kennedy’s legacy has left this area in such a state that it will takes hundreds of thousands [of pounds] to get back to where we were, due to a lack of one year’s maintenance.”

Councillor Hearty says main routes as well as side roads have been affected.

“Not only have rural roads been abandoned but main roads like the B30 have been left with major holes that have gotten bigger and bigger due to a lack of basic maintenance.

“In their reports over the past number of year’s Transport NI have named a number of rural projects as priorities but they now appear to have dropped them.  Two years ago they approved a passing bay at the junction of the Newry Road onto the Creamery Road after lobbying from Sinn Féin councillors.   This was agreed and presented to councillors in a glossy brochure but has now been dropped; as far as we’re concerned that brochure is not worth the paper it’s printed on,” he fumed.

“The Loughross Road crossing onto the Blayney Road is a blind junction and people on Lough Ross Road feel like they are taking their lives in their hands every time they use it.

“We were told there would be a 20mph speed limit installed at Clonalig Primary School during the hours children were entering and leaving the school and that has never happened.

“We wanted the 30mph sign on the Glassdrummond Road moved up past the Poet’s Glen for the safety of residents in the area and also requested an inspection of the bridge at Larkin’s Road following concerns from residents,” he continued.

“These are not unreasonable demands.  I’m certainly pleased to see that Chris Hazzard [Sinn Fein] has now taken over the Infrastructure portfolio and am confident he will do what he can to undo the damage of Danny Kennedy’s toxic legacy.”

All three newly elected Sinn Féin candidates from the Newry and Armagh constituency have been placed in influential positions within the Assembly, the party has announced.

Megan Fearon has been appointed an Executive Office Junior Minister, where she will work closely with Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness on fulfilling the roles of his office.

Conor Murphy has been named as Chair of the Economy Committee, which will scrutinise the work of Economy Minister Simon Hamilton, while Cathal Boylan will take on the role of Chair of the Standards and Privileges Committee, responsible for examining the conduct of Assembly members, investigating breaches and ensuring the transparency and accountability of MLAs.

Ms Fearon, as the youngest MLA and now youngest to be appointed Junior Minister, will take on a wide portfolio which includes responsibilities for good relations, promoting equality of opportunity, victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse, human rights, urban villages, the Social Investment Fund and racial equality.

She said she is “extremely proud” and looks forward to working with all her Executive colleagues “in this new era of government”.

Conor Murphy says his role will present “significant challenges” that he is looking forward to addressing.

Sinn Fein's Newry and Armagh MLAs Conor Murphy, Megan Fearon and Cathal Boylan.

“Key targets for the new Executive include growing the economy through support for indigenous businesses and attracting inward investment. My job will be to lead the scrutiny of the Department’s performance in this task, to ensure that there is a balanced spread of investment and that the All-Ireland economy can reach its full potential through support for Intertrade Ireland,” he said.

“Tourism will also form a big part of our plans for economic growth and we need to ensure Tourism Ireland successfully promotes the entire island and that local providers receive the necessary assistance from the Department.”

Mr Murphy says he will ensure the Economy department develops sustainable energy policies to replace schemes that have recently ended and will lead the Committee “in engagement with all sectors that contribute to the economy and giving them a voice in the strategies that are being developed to secure sustainable economic growth”.

South Armagh will be well represented in the new Stormont Executive, with Newry and Armagh MLA Megan Fearon being placed in the influential role of Junior Minister.  At just 25 years of age, the Sinn Fein MLA continues to be the youngest member of the Executive, and her newest appointment represents a major step in her political achievements so far. Five years ago, the south Armagh woman became the youngest member of the Assembly and during this month’s Assembly elections, the former Queen’s University student was returned on the first count.

Her appointment as Junior Minister, along with the DUP’s Alastair Ross, came during the formation of a power-sharing Executive at Stormont on Wednesday last.

Working closely with Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness on fulfilling the roles of his office, the Executive Office Junior Ministers’ portfolio also includes responsibilities for good relations, promoting equality of opportunity, victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse, human rights, racial equality, urban villages and the Social Investment Fund.

Speaking to The Examiner after her appointment last week, Megan said being given the role was a “massive honour” which, although challenging, “would also come with opportunities which will allow me to carve out my own niche areas that I want to work in.”

The Sinn Fein South Armagh representative hopes her influential role will also help her to lobby on key issues affecting the South Armagh constituency.

“I am delighted to have been appointed as Junior Minister in The Executive Office and look forward to working with all my Executive colleagues in this new era of government,” said Megan.

“Part of my brief will include working on the TBUC strategy (Together Building a United Community), working on racial equality issues and overseeing the refugee immigration strategy. Equality has been a key issue for me during my time in Assembly and I look forward to working in this area once again in my new role and welcome the opportunities it will give me in addressing these matters further.

“As Junior Ministers we will work extensively with young people, which is a good fit for me” she added.

With regards to any impact the newly formed official Opposition may have on the Executive or her role, Ms Fearon admitted the new arrangement would be “a different environment which will take some adjustment on both sides” but she said she she was not “overly concerned about it.”

“As far as the Opposition is concerned it’s really up to them what they do with it,” she said.

South Armagh MLA Megan Fearon has been appointed Junior Minister in the newly formed Executive and will work closely with her party colleague, Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness.

“We have our jobs to do with or without an Opposition.  It is really up to the opposition to come with alternatives and I don’t have the greatest confidence that they will provide that.  In the past the SDLP, for example, have voted against every single budget in the Assembly but have never once presented an alternative to it.

“Within the Executive we had our first meeting on Thursday and it was a really positive setting.  We are all getting off on a good foot and keen to get things done.

“I am looking forward to the challenge ahead and am keen to use whatever influence I can to work for south Armagh, to encourage investment and to develop relationships with other ministers to advance some of the key projects that we have lined up for the area.”

All three local Sinn Fein candidates from the constituency have been placed in influential positions in Stormont and the Executive. Newry MLA Conor Murphy has been appointed Chair of the Economy Committee, which will scrutinise the work of Economy Minister Simon Hamilton, whilst Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan has also been made a Committee chair.  He will lead the Standards and Privileges Committee, the body responsible for examining the conduct of Assembly members, investigating breaches and ensuring the transparency and accountability of MLAs.

Intrepid cyclist Darren Rowland gained a much welcome sidekick on Saturday last, as pal Jamie Malone joined him for the last three weeks of his epic cycle across America, in aid of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.

The Culloville man embarked on the gruelling challenge on 3rd April and, apart from a two week break due to the intense heat, he has been pedalling his way along the 4,000 mile route from San Francisco to New York solo, to raise awareness and funds for the renowned repatriation charity.

From the outset of his two-wheeled challenge, Darren has been treated to the best of American and Irish hospitality, having been welcomed into the homes of a host of people he has met along the way.  His last solo leg ahead of Jamie’s arrival saw him pass through Memphis and Nashville on the way to Louisville, Kentucky where he met up with Jamie.  During his Nashville stay last week, bar owners Sean & Paula McNamara not only took Darren into their home but also hosted a hugely successful fundraising night of music and entertainment in McNamara’s Irish Pub, raising a total of $1,000 for the KBRT, a percentage of which was donated by the generous couple.

Happy to have finally made it to America to join Darren on his travels, Jamie – who has completed months of rigorous training in preparation for the challenge  – was keen to get in the saddle for the 800 mile trek from Louisville to New York.

Jamie Malone arrived in Louisville, Kentucky on Sunday to accompany Culloville man Darren Rowland for the remaining 800 miles of his 2Wheels2NewYork cycle for KBRT.

After 3,200 miles of cycling alone, Darren is more than happy to have some company for the remaining leg of his incredible journey and looks forward to a whole new experience in the weeks ahead as the pair head to their New York destination.

A series of hugely successful fundraisers have been held both at home and stateside for the 2wheels2newyork challenge and both Darren and Jamie have set up fundraising pages on idonate.ie which continue to accept donations.  Supporters of the intrepid mission can keep up to date with Darren and Jamie’s cross country trek on the Twowheels Tonewyork Facebook page and blog.

A Crossmaglen man who received a life-changing kidney transplant last October says he is delighted that the medical team he credits with making him feel “reborn” have become worthy winners of the Spirit of Health Award at Friday night’s Sunday Life Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards.

The annual gala-awards ceremony has become a key event in Northern Ireland’s events calendar, honouring the real heroes of Northern Ireland and giving recognition to all those whose good deeds and inspirational stories have previously gone mostly unnoticed.

Fifty-one year old Aidan Murtagh personally nominated the Nephrology Unit of Belfast City Hospital for the special accolade in recognition of their outstanding work in the treatment of chronic kidney disease.    Indeed the team hit the national headlines last year when it emerged they had equalled the UK record in carrying out five kidney transplants in the one day, falling just one short of the world record of six in 24 hours, held by a hospital in Texas, USA.  Aidan was one of those five transplant patients, and he counts himself incredibly lucky to have become an organ recipient after beginning his daily dialysis treatment just 12 days beforehand. Since the transplant, Aidan’s recovery has been remarkable and he was discharged from hospital after just five days, one of the quickest recovery times ever recorded following such surgery.

He says his life has changed dramatically and the previous symptoms of complete exhaustion and the overall effect of high levels of toxins in his body, have all disappeared.

Speaking to The Examiner as he returned from a great night mingling with Northern Ireland’s unsung heroes and a host of celebrities at the glittering awards ceremony in the Culloden Estate & Spa resort in Holywood, Aidan said he felt the Belfast City Hospital Nephrology team “more than deserved” the recognition and he took the opportunity to stress the importance of organ donation.

Staff from the Belfast City Hospital Nephrology Unit celebrate their Spirit of Health Award at Friday's Spirit of NI Awards ceremony in the Culloden Estate and Spa. The team were nominated by Crossmaglen man Aidan Murtagh who credits the team with giving him a new lease of life after he received a kidney transplant last October.

“I am delighted my nomination was successful and the team got the recognition they deserved,” he said.

“This was a way of expressing my gratitude to them for giving me a new lease of life and to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation. I will be eternally thankful to the family who made the decision to donate their loved one’s organs.  “Their decision opened up a whole new life for me and underlines the huge importance of organ donation. I am living proof of just how life-changing organ donation is and I would encourage everyone to sit down with their loved ones and discuss committing to be an organ donor.”

Meanwhile, Newry based charity, the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (KBRT) was also honoured on the night, picking up the Overcoming Adversity Award in recognition of their tireless work in repatriating the remains of loved ones who have died abroad. Newry couple Collie and Eithne Bell turned their own personal tragedy into a renowned repatriation charity which has helped bring home the remains of over 170 Irish people to their families.

The trust was set up in the days after the hit-and-run death of the Bell’s 26 year old Kevin,  in New York three years ago. As Kevin’s friends and supporters in Newry and abroad rallied round to raise funds to repatriate his body,  the fund grew to £150,000 and, instead of asking for the fundraising to stop, the couple realised that other families would go through the same heartbreak and would need help to get a loved one home after a tragedy overseas. So the KBRT was borne and has continued to be a vital lifeline to people in times of great distress.  Collie Bell told The Examiner the KBRT team were “ flattered, humbled and honoured to be on the same stage as truly wonderful and inspirational people” and added,

“We are really grateful for the raising of the KBRT profile and so appreciate the continuous support we receive on a daily basis.”

A managers lot is aptly summed up in the widely held view of a lot of supporters from their club or county-“When their team loses-blame the manager, when their team wins-why wouldn’t he win with the players he had at his disposal “. Perhaps the only common denominator that can be attributed to all managers across the board is that they “never pick a team to lose” Certainly things might not go right on the day, in terms of game plans being carried out or tactics are totally in-correct for the team they are playing or that players fail to play their assigned roles, but again for me –no team at any age level is sent out on the field of play without any managerial instruction, be they good or bad on any given day.

As the GAA hierarchy sits back and become willing participants in the blatant erosion of their games ethos “amateurism” part of the price to pay for their “now professional sport” which has adopted the codes of practice of other full-time professional sports, has become evident in the TV ratings war between rival “GAA pundits”. Once, all we had to look forward to was the Sunday Game programme, now we are treated to live matches, in-depth analysis from former players in a “paid capacity” across numerous TV stations, which has led us to the “open field scenario” where the two most talked about people in the game, the referee and the manager have become “fair game”.

Before taking up the reins of manager the person knows that criticism and abuse are part and parcel of the job as is praise when the trophy cabinet is being dusted down and filled with silverware. However, there are boundary lines that should never be crossed by journalist or pundits i.e. allowing things to get personal as it did by Joe Brolly in his analysis of Armagh’s lack of performance against Cavan in their Ulster Championship quarter-final game. Not for the first time Joe singled out Kieran McGeeney for “personal assassination” which comfortably crossed the aforementioned boundaries.

Joe, like us all is fond of a good “rant” and his profession enhances his “gift for the gab but like us all he lost his “valid points” by getting personal. Joe, whose playing career is remembered for “that’s the little fella who blew kisses to the crowd” is still showing us now what he was back then “a showman, playing to the audience.  Joe is the GAA’s equivalent to soccer’s Eamon Dunphy, captivating a viewing and literary audience on the back of controversy with people eagerly waiting to see what person or what topic will be in his next line of fire. Joe knows his own boundary lines when it comes to “character assassination and deformation as his continued controversies sees his wider audience and TV ratings soar to new heights.”

BACK TO BASICS

Following the latest championship fiasco it is time to examine the whole structure of Armagh football. Reality is that Armagh is now where Donegal were when they trooped out of Crossmaglen a few years ago. Donegal went back to basics ,re-grouped, firstly became very hard to beat in a very defensive minded set-up before expanding and using the talent at their disposal to go on to win the All-Ireland.

Armagh’s latest championship conquerors Cavan have beaten the Orchard County 3 times this year, all in convincing fashion. Cavan have come from Division Three to Division One with an ultra -defensive built in mechanism on board. Until manager Terry Hyland got the balance of his team right in terms of bedding in his younger players from their 3 Ulster u-21 titles and his more established senior players did Cavan become a very effective offensive side with telling effect as we have seen at first hand.

It seems to me that the first thing that Armagh do to free scoring underage scoring forwards is to turn them into back tracking defensive units. “The manager says I must track back, so I get back, but have no real role to play, as was seen against Cavan where there were loads of players behind the ball but Cavan still sailed through the defence at will using power and pace. Armagh had 2 scoring forwards on the day, Stefan Campbell and Tony Kernan with 3 of the other 4 starting forwards replaced. That means that Armagh used a total of 9 forwards yet only 2 registered on the scoreboard and managed a meagre 5 points from play over the course of the match. Five of Cavan’s starting 6 forwards registered scores.

Current manager Kieran McGeeney has been involved with this panel of players for the last 3 years, one as assistant manager and two as manager. Everyone knows what Kieran brings to the table in terms of commitment and professionalism but there is more to football management than getting a group of players to buy into a cause. Footballers need to buy into a structured style and system of play that thus far has been, in my opinion, void in his tenure of office. Yes, on any given day with everyone playing to their abilities, Armagh can match the best, but those days are too infrequent and harder to pull off without a set plan of action. Whilst there has to be some sort of game plan in operation by Armagh for games it is either too easily dismantled or too hard to implement given the on field displays which show no real definitive pattern.

SINCE LAST ULSTER TITLE

Peter McDonnell led Armagh to their last Ulster title in 2008, since then Armagh has played a total of 28 championship matches. The record is as follows Won: 11 Drew 2 Lost 15. Six of the 11 wins have been over Ulster sides Derry, Donegal, Fermanagh, Down, Cavan and Tyrone, 3 wins over Wicklow, Leitrim and Meath. The draws were with Wicklow (won replay 2011) and Monaghan (lost replay 2014).

It’s hard to beat the facts of the last 8 years, which give a clear indication of just where Armagh football is at and the picture painted is not a pretty one. The heady days for Armagh football are long gone and the present position is a correct one. The production line of Orchard talent is not materialising when it comes to the transition to senior football. The question is Why not? And what is going to be done about it.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Over the last number of years Armagh footballing structures, development, minor U-21 and Senior have been in the hands of members of the All-Ireland winning team of 2002. Fair to say that I have never seen any one team to produce so many managers across the board at club and county level as that 2002 winning team. Yet the irony is that those of them with proven track winning records as managers have not been involved in the Armagh County set-up.

There is a template for success on the doorstep within the county but it seems to be that those responsible for or involved in it are either not interested or not asked by those at the top table of Armagh football to get involved.

The successful counties at present in both hurling and football encourage their players to play for their clubs at every opportunity. Not so in Armagh. The current system is clearly not working so someone somewhere has to do something to get Armagh on their first rung of the ladder back being competitive, and see where it goes from there.

A Crossmaglen woman, who has been an active volunteer promoting child protection within schools for the last six years, is encouraging others to consider becoming involved in the initiative.

Ann Donnelly, a retired principal and mother-of-three grown up sons, has been volunteering with the NSPCC’s Speak Out, Stay Safe service, which aims to teach every pupil how to protect themselves from abuse.

The scheme involves trained ChildLine volunteers addressing schoolchildren at assemblies and workshops by assisting them in recognising situations where they may need help and how to access support, and the sessions are sensitively tailored to ensure topics are covered in a way which is age appropriate.

Ann is now appealing for more people to come forward and sign up to deliver the programme in primary schools across her home county of Armagh.

Outlining what’s involved in the programme, she said: “The training is enjoyable and not at all daunting. Other volunteers and the staff at NSPCC put you at ease throughout the training. Initially, there are two days of face to face training, followed by the opportunity to watch the programme being delivered in schools. Then you progress to delivering small sections yourself, being supported all the way by experienced mentors.”

Volunteers do not have to have special skills or qualifications, just a positive, caring attitude, an open mind and a willingness to reach out to children and the adults who care for them, Ann said.

“Volunteering doesn’t take up as much as you might imagine. You can devote as much or as little time as you are able to this vital work. It’s what we do regularly that will make a difference to keeping all children happy and safe. They need the trusted adults in their lives to teach them the vital life skills of speaking out if they have a worry, how to recognise abuse in all its forms and how to quickly access help should they need it,” she added.

Ann began volunteering for the NSPCC when the schools’ programme was in its infancy and catered to primary six and seven pupils. Now, it consists of two assemblies, one for primary 1-4 and the other for primary 5-7, so that the descriptions and advice given can be tailored and made age appropriate.

“Personally, I am so proud to be delivering such an important education programme to pupils. The Speak Out Stay Safe programme empowers children with information at a level which they can easily understand. It enables a child to access help or advice quickly, while reassuring him or her that there is always someone who will listen and help no matter how big or how small their worry is,” Ann said.

“There is nothing more moving than an innocent child trusting you enough to tell you they have a problem and there is nothing more important than teaching a child how to recognise that what might be happening in their life should not be happening to them and they have the right to speak out to stay safe.

“Volunteering is a two way street. It can benefit the volunteer as much as the cause you are supporting. Volunteering gives you a sense of pride and identity as you work in your community and beyond. You can learn new skills and try out new career opportunities without making long term commitments. You can build on skills you already have and use them to benefit people you would otherwise never have met. If you are considering volunteering, don’t stop to think, just do it.  Volunteering has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done in my life.”

To find out more about becoming a volunteer for the NSPCC’s Speak Out, Stay Safe programme, contact Lisa Norris on 07825 118 679 or email lisa.norris@nspcc.org.uk.