Business Eye April 2024

Powering The Business Transition To Electric Vehicles

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Leonardo Royal Hotel, Glasgow

Leonardo Royal Hotel, Glasgow

Leonardo Royal Hotel, Glasgow

06 All-Island Economy

InterTradeIreland, the all-island economic development agency, has launched a report revealing new business opportunities available in the all-island circular economy across a wide range of sectors.

08 Ulster University Excellence Awards

The Department of Management, Leadership & Marketing in Ulster Univerity’s Business School held its annual Excellence Awards to celebrate the class of 2023.

12 Lidl NI Invests In Its People

Lidl Northern Ireland has announced a further £3 million investment in pay increases for its workforce in the region. All employees will benefit from the increase which took effect at the start of March.

15

Openreach £100m Investment Takes Broadband To 97%

Openreach, Northern Ireland’s largest broadband network provider, has announced its commitment to invest over £100 million to expand and maintain its Ultrafast Full Fibre network connecting more than 100,000 additional homes and businesses, including extending its reach into the most rural parts of Northern Ireland.

20

Weev – Powering The Business Transition To Electric Vehicles

As Northern Ireland’s transition towards electrifying commercial fleets continues, Graeme Thompson, Chief Financial Officer at leading electric vehicle infrastructure company Weev, analyses the factors behind businesses making the shift.

26

Go Further, Grow Stronger

Anne Beggs, Invest NI’s Director of Trade & Investment, says that the benefits of exporting are well documented at both a company and economy level.

30 Cancer Focus NI Announces New Board

Leading local cancer charity Cancer Focus NI has announced three key board appointments. Boyd Carson takes over as Chairman with Professor Mark Lawler its new Vice-Chair and Violet Spence as Treasurer.

34 SONI – Helping To Accelerate The Transition To Green Energy

The UK’s Electricity Networks Commissioner, Nick Winser CBE, was in Belfast recently to speak to a business audience at an NI Chamber of Commerce & Industry seminar held at BT Tower. His message was around the acceleration of the UK and NI’s transition to renewable energy and, ultimately, net zero. Business Eye’s Richard Buckley caught up with Nick Winser and the Chief Executive of SONI, Alan Campbell, to talk about where Northern Ireland stands as a region and what the future holds.

42 Planet, People, Place – The Three Pillars Of Net Positive

Sustainability can be understood simply as “enough for all forever”. At NIE Networks, our people are proud to lead the transition to reliable and sustainable energy for all. The stakes are high and the work is complex, but thinking in terms of the 3Ps – Planet, People, Place - offers a clear way to relate our efforts to the world around us.

54 NI Food & Drink Awards

The creativity and determination of local firms has been praised at the 2024 Northern Ireland Food and Drink Awards. A record turnout of just under 500 guests turned out in style on Friday night for the gala awards celebration at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, presented by BBC NI’s Jo Scott.

58 Sport Changes Life – Making A Difference At Grassroots Level

It’s more of a statement than a name. Sport Changes Life is a Northern Ireland-based foundation and charity but it’s also a fact of life. Sport, as anyone involved in it will testify, has the power to give life new direction.

Recent

events regarding the former DUP leader aside, the Assembly & Executive at Stormont has made an impressive start, or re-start, to its latest incarnation.

Comment

Harmony seems to be prevailing, Ministers have settled into their roles, and the First & Deputy First Minister duo of Michelle O’Neill and Emma Little Pengelly have been making a favourable impression everywhere they seem to go.

Northern Ireland has rarely been high on their priority list, but it’s even further down the pecking order at the moment. That won’t change until well after the general election, when we’re likely to have a very different line-up of ministers to work with.

“Those who kneejerked by assuming that a fractured DUP would bring the institutions crashing down yet again are wide of the mark... hopefully.”

But, whilst there’s nothing like the easy rhythm of a honeymoon period, it probably won’t go on for ever. The DUP, for its part, has steadied itself well in the wake of Sir Jeffrey Donaldson’s sudden departure, but new leader Gavin Robinson has plenty of work ahead of him. Those who knee-jerked by assuming that a fractured DUP would bring the institutions crashing down yet again are wide of the mark....hopefully.

The problem with politics here – or anywhere else, for that matter – is that even the whiff of an impending elections means that every minister and every political representative have votes in mind.

So the DUP will be fretting about the seats that it could lose in the wake of recent events, Lagan Valley included. It’s new leader, meanwhile, might not get everything his own way against Naomi Long in East Belfast.

But the smell of an election doesn’t just affect a party with the jitters like the DUP. Others are far from immune.

That’s why precisely none of our new executive ministers are prepared to grasp the nettle and make difficult decisions, unpopular decisions, in the interests of putting Northern Ireland on to a more stable financial footing.

Let’s face it. Rishi Sunak and his government don’t have their own electoral sorrows to seek, at least according to the catastrophic opinion polls over in GB.

Yet our own ministers continue to wave the begging bowl in the direction of Westminster. They’ve all been crying poverty in the hope that Rishi and Jeremy Hunt will take pity on them and bung a few extra millions (or billions) into the NI government bank account.

Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd was one of the most recent, calling on Westminster to stump up the barrels of cash needed to fund the modernisation of Northern Ireland Water in case he has no option but to introduce water charges. However, as the English already pay for their water, his chances of us being treated differently are so slim they’re invisible.

O’Dowd is by no means the only one with this attitude. But there’s a reckoning coming. Our devolved government, by any measure and under any GB government, is going to have to stand on its own two feet.

That doesn’t just mean uncomfortable decisions. It also means adding to the financial burden of the general public and businesses.

It’s not a great outlook. But it’s a realistic one. Perhaps it’s better to get on with it now. This can can only be kicked so far down the road.

Richard Buckley EDITOR

Eye on News

New Research Highlights Business Opportunities In All-island Circular Economy

InterTradeIreland, the all-island economic development agency, has launched a report revealing new business opportunities available in the all-island circular economy across a wide range of sectors.

The report, announced at the All-Ireland Sustainability Summit, highlights the potential for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) throughout the island to make significant cost savings and reduce carbon emissions.

Martin Robinson, Director of Strategy at InterTradeIreland, explained the benefits of circular approaches, stating “We know from our research that cost pressures are a significant concern for businesses across the island.

Circular principles make better use of resources and deliver environmental

benefits while also enhancing business performance. It’s an area that is relevant to all businesses. “

In contrast to the traditional economic model of ‘take-makewaste’, the circular economy keeps materials in circulation for as long as possible through strategies such as reuse, repurposing, and recycling.

It’s a process that Titanic Denim in Belfast understands well.

Established in 2017, the multi award winning sustainable denim company, sources preloved denim and other reclaimed materials to

craft bespoke luxury designs.

Founder Marie Nancarrow

underscoring the importance of sustainability, commented “The younger generation is more educated about sustainability and about the importance of looking after the environment. Increasingly, customers are interested in where their products come from.”

Notably, Titanic Denim’s commitment to sustainability has garnered attention from renowned figures such as singer Katy Perry and other top artists, who have sought bespoke pieces reflecting the company’s circular ethos.

One of the key findings of the report underscores the huge potential of industrial symbiosis, in which outputs from one process serve as inputs for another. An example of this is BiaSol from Athlone. The innovative food business takes spent grain

from breweries and makes it into a fibre-rich ingredient called super milled grains, which can be added to smoothies, porridge and baked goods.

Niamh Dooley from BiaSol said “By 2050 we need to increase our food production by 60 per cent and with climate change on top of that, we need to do it in a circular way. A third of all food produced, ends up as waste, and that’s mostly at the manufacturing level.”

“There is definitely lots of potential for SMEs in various sectors to get involved in the circular economy. It takes work, but it’s worth it. We’ve also found that circular principles are attractive to investors too.”

The report does note that despite the opportunities available, barriers such as waste regulation and the lack of a joined-up approach can hinder companies.

Martin concluded, “At InterTradeIreland, we are committed to supporting businesses in exploring innovative ways to integrate and grow circular practices in their operations. BiaSol participated in an InterTradeIreland Synergy initiative and as a result were introduced to a new investor.”

“We look forward to collaborating closely with policy makers, stakeholders and partners across the island to identify opportunities to work together, accelerate widespread adoption and make the most of the potential presented by the circular economy.”

Marie Nancarrow, founder Titanic Denim; Stuart Mathieson, Research Manager at InterTradeIreland; Martin Robinson, Director of Strategy at InterTradeIreland and Niamh Dooley Co-Founder BiaSol.

Henderson Group Teams Raise £22,000 For Action Mental Health

Teams from 96 SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO and ViVOXTRA stores along with employees from Henderson Group’s Mallusk hub, have taken part in the Miles for Mental Health Challenge, completing 16,478.2 miles, making a total donation of £22,730 to Action Mental Health.

The challenge took place earlier this year, with participants running, walking, swimming or cycling to rack up miles in aid of the local charity.

Action Mental Health has grown from humble beginnings in Downpatrick in 1963. The charity promotes the mental health and well-being of people in Northern Ireland and helps break the stigma of mental illness in the community.

Henderson Retail’s store employees, along with their Mallusk based colleagues, have taken part in this annual challenge for the past three years, raising a total of over £50,000 and covering 27,727 miles.

The top number of miles covered for 2024 was achieved by David Wedt from SPAR Cherryvalley who covered 1,992.1 miles alone and Gillian Kelly from Henderson Technology was the top fundraiser who raised £465.

A number of stores also showed their support with instore fundraisers including bucket collections and turning their store purple, Action Mental Health’s signature colour.

Jonathan Smyth from Action Mental Health commented, “We want to say a huge thank you to all staff who got involved and raised an amazing amount of money for our charity. 1 in 5 adults in Northern Ireland will be affected by mental ill-health and this donation will help us continue to support people who need our services, changing the lives of many people across the country.”

Bronagh Luke, Head of Corporate Marketing at Henderson Group commented, “I want to thank all store employees and their Mallusk based colleagues who took part in the Miles for Mental Health Challenge, as well as our generous shoppers who kindly donated.

Action Mental Health is a deserving charity which does such important work, helping to break stigmas and supporting people across Northern Ireland when they need it most.

“It’s important to keep the conversation going about mental health. Getting our stores and shoppers involved not only helps raise awareness of the charity and the help that is out there for people across the country, but also helps bring people together, encouraging

them to get active and tackle the challenge together. The miles covered and money raised is a great achievement for all involved.

“Our partnership for the past three years with Action Mental Health has been so important to raise awareness of the charity’s valuable services. We are looking forward to continuing support for the charity throughout the year as well as providing health and wellbeing support for our colleagues.”

Jane Robertson and Jonathan Smyth from Action Mental Health, with Bronagh Luke and Darcey Wilson from Henderson Group.

Ulster University Business Schools Holds Annual Excellence Awards

The Department of Management, Leadership and Marketing in Ulster University’s Business School held its annual Excellence Awards to celebrate the class of 2023.

The awards, now in their thirteenth year, are an opportunity to showcase and recognise the outstanding talent in students across a range of subjects including marketing, business studies and human resource management. A total of 27 awards were presented to top students in a variety of subjects including the Highest Achieving Final Year Student, Highest Mark On A Programme and Excellence In Placement.

The awards were held at

Ulster University’s Academy Restaurant at the Belfast Campus on Wednesday 28th February.

Speaking at the awards to congratulate the students on their successes, Dr Mary Boyd, Head of Department, says: “It is fantastic to see such a diverse range of talent in management, leadership and marketing related programmes and what makes it even more special is that we get to recognise the achievements of our students and celebrate in our very own Academy Restaurant.

“Ulster University Business School prides itself on equipping students with the skills and knowledge to become leaders in their fields and investing in talent across a wide range of sectors. We’d like to thank our sponsors for supporting the awards, which help demonstrate our commitment to providing an important mix of academic and practical learning.”

Dr Boyd also adds “Our students continue to deliver above and beyond, and we’re delighted to celebrate all of their hard work during their studies.”

Award sponsors included The Belfast Telegraph; Chartered Accountants Ireland; Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) Ireland; Grant Thornton; Redstar Foodservice; Staffline Recruitment; Lynas Foodservice; Hunter Savage; ShredBank; Whale; Labour Relations Agency; Moy Park; The Marketing Institute of Ireland; Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM); Hastings Hotels; Deloitte; Worshipful Company of Chartered Secretaries & Administrators; Ocorian; Factor; CBI and Axiom.

Head of the Department of Management, Leadership and Marketing Dr Mary Boyd (centre) with winners at the Excellence Awards

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Eye on News

GRAND CENTRAL & EUROPA RECOGNISED AT EXCELLENCE AWARDS

The Grand Central Hotel and Europa Hotel have picked up a Merit Award at the CIE Tours International Awards of Excellence which took place in Dublin.

Now in its 32nd year and organised by CIE Tours, the largest operator of guided tours to Ireland in the North American market, the awards are based on poststay feedback and recognise Ireland’s hospitality ambassadors, the people and businesses who put the Irish tourism industry on the global stage through the warmth of welcome and quality of service provided to international visitors. Each category is based on poststay feedback received from nearly

25,000 customers surveyed by CIE Tours throughout 2023. The winners have all delivered an exceptional quality experience and welcome to visitors, achieving a customer satisfaction rating of over 92%.

James McGinn, Managing Director of Hastings Hotels said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Grand Central and the Europa Hotel continue to be recognised at the CIE Tours Awards of Excellence. Our guests are at the heart of everything we do and we pride

ourselves on providing a first-class service and an enjoyable stay each and every time, so the fact that these prestigious accolades have been won based on the feedback from our guests makes it extra special. I would like to thank our employees as they are the reason for our continued success and their hard-work and dedication are recognised through these awards.”

Stephen Cotter, Interim Managing Director, CIE Tours said: “Year on year huge effort is made by our

partners to improve and enhance their offerings based on the feedback we provide to them from our annual visitor surveys. Their dedication and commitment help to maintain Ireland’s reputation as a leading destination for US visitors. We are delighted to recognise their contribution to Irish tourism, and the contribution they make to their local communities in terms of jobs and wealth creation.”

Pictured at the awards are (L-R) Stephen Cotter and Rosanne Zusman from CIE Tours; Jake McHugh, General Manager of the Grand Central Hotel; Patrice Lavery, Business Development Manager of Hastings Hotels; Andy McNeill, General Manager of Europa Hotel and Lorcan O’Connor from CIE Tours.

Pinsent Masons urges businesses to review cyber defences

Many of Northern Ireland’s leading businesses have been told the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and fragmentation of ‘threat actor groups’ means having robust cyber defences has never been more important.

As part of a week-long programme of events marking CyberNI Week, Pinsent Masons presented its fifth annual Cyber Report in Belfast on Tuesday, where delegates from the energy, financial, transport and housing sectors heard about the threats handled by the international law firm’s specialist UK cyber team in the last year, and the scams that could emerge this year.

Entitled ‘Cybersecurity Landscape, Risks and Challenges’, the detailed report was delivered at a breakfast briefing staged at the company’s Soloist building offices in Lanyon Place.

Chaired by Laura Gillespie – a partner at Pinsent Masons who leads the cyber team in Northern Ireland – she said: “It has been clear that the sophistication and volume of ransomware attacks has increased over the last 12 months; clients are responding, however, by doubling down their efforts in developing cyber readiness programmes.”

Totalling 58% of all incidents, the report found that ransomware incidents accounted for the majority of the incidents the team handled. Those targeted by cyber criminals ranged from Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to multi-national companies with a global footprint.

Businesses operating in the

financial sector were the most frequently targeted; they accounted for 40% of breaches and tend to be targeted because they hold a wealth of monetizable data and information. In 43% of confirmed cases, criminals were successful in extracting sensitive data which can then be sold on the ‘dark web’ – or used directly to commit identity or financial fraud.

The new report from Pinsent Masons also alerted businesses to the fragmentation of threat actor groups, or some operating what is essentially a franchise model. The effect of this on victims is that it can be difficult to attribute an incident to a specific group, and therefore make it challenging to rely on threat intelligence. Delegates were told the

emergence of new technologies such as AI is not all bad news as it can have various benefits, including detecting cyber-attack techniques by analysing the data and structure of malware attacks, and identifying e-mails with rogue traits.

Tightening regulation as part of the EU Network and Information Systems Directive that must become national law by October is intended to deliver a high, common level of cybersecurity to help companies protect the IT infrastructure and prevent external attacks.

One key aspect of this is increasing accountability and liability of those people working at management level. However, uncertainties remain in the UK, with little progress made with the

proposed changes to the UK’s NIS Regulations, and no changes referenced during the King’s Speech last year.

Laura added: “Criminals involved in cyber attacks are continually finding new ways to target businesses with the aim of obtaining commercially or personally sensitive information, and with Artificial Intelligence set to play a bigger role, organisations need to make cyber security their number one priority in 2024.

“Regardless of the size of the business, cyber criminals don’t discriminate, and the ramifications will be felt in both the short- and long-term, with lost revenue, reputational damage, possible fines, and even follow on litigation just some of the problems that originate from cyber attacks.”

Pictured with Pinsent Masons’ fifth annual Cyber Report are Senior Associate Anna Flanagan (L) and Partner Laura Gillespie (R). As part of the commercial law firm’s specialist Cyber Team, they regularly support clients in cyber readiness and incident response.

Eye on News

Lidl Northern Ireland Invests £3m In Pay Increases

The company has invested £6 million in pay rises for employees in the region with employees benefitting from a 13.5 percent increase since February 2023. This latest investment will result in every Lidl employee in the region benefitting from an approximate 6 percent pay rise, equal to, on average, £1,300 additional for every employee per annum.

Commenting on the announcement, Maeve McCleane, Chief People Officer at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland said: “Navigating the changing face of retail against the backdrop of rising cost-of-living, climate crisis and the impact of global geo-

political events has been no easy feat, which is why now more than ever it is vital for us to continue to prioritise our people – an investment we will never compromise on.

“We have a strong commitment to our customers to offer them the best value in the market and our people are key for us to deliver on that promise. We are proud to reward the hard work and dedication of our employees by investing an additional £3 million in pay rises impacting every employee in the business making Lidl the highest paying supermarket in Northern Ireland.”

Lidl Northern Ireland employs

Lidl Northern Ireland has announced a further £3 million investment in pay increases for its workforce in the region.

All employees will benefit from the increase which took effect at the start of March.

more than 1,300 people across its 41-strong store network and regional distribution centre in Nutts Corner.

Northern Ireland’s fastest-growing supermarket is marking 25 years of growth in the region this year, with several new stores in the pipeline and a growing network of local suppliers.

Backed by its successful ‘Big on Quality, Lidl on Price’ proposition, Lidl Northern Ireland plans to open new stores this year at Boucher Road in Belfast, in Carryduff and in Cookstown where its journey began in 1999. Other stores planned include Bangor, Craigavon, Dungannon, Coleraine and Newcastle.

For the fourth year running, Lidl

Northern Ireland has been recognised by the Top Employers Institute as a Top Employer for 2023. Lidl is the only retailer to receive the accreditation in the region. The Top Employer accreditation is a globally recognised and highly sought-after certification, held by international brands such as Heineken, Puma, and PepsiCo. It showcases an organisation’s dedication to a better world of work, exhibited through excellent HR policies and people practices.

Pictured L-R: Maeve McCleane, Chief People Officer at Lidl Ireland & Northern Ireland, and team

Eye on News

TOURISM NI’S FLAGSHIP ‘MEET THE BUYER’ EVENT RETURNS

Northern Ireland’s tourism businesses got the chance to pitch to overseas tourism buyers as Tourism Northern Ireland hosts its flagship Meet the Buyer 2024 networking event in the ICC Belfast.

This year, for the first time, the event ran over two days from the 9th to 10th of April, in response to increased demand from international tour operators and local businesses keen to showcase the quality of NI’s tourism product.

Hosting over 150 international tour operators from across the globe and bringing them together with 155 local tourism and hospitality businesses, the event will facilitate over 5,000 meetings and give the industry a chance to promote their individual offerings and to promote Northern Ireland as a world-leading visitor destination.

Delivered in partnership with Tourism Ireland, the Meet the Buyer event attracts a wide range of international tour companies from 16 global markets, including countries such as the US, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Nordics and closer to home markets. The event opens up a window of opportunity for local businesses to get one-to-one appointments with a pre-qualified group of overseas buyers.

Economy Minister Conor Murphy, who opened the event, said:

“This event provides an excellent opportunity to show international visitors what we have to offer

across the north of Ireland.

Whether it be our magnificent landscapes, our rich and diverse cultural heritage, our coastline, lakelands and mountains, our activities, our great food and drink scene, vibrant music venues and our cities with their own unique stories to tell.

“I hope each international visitor here as part of this ‘Meet the Buyer’ event enjoys their time and continues to make the North a key component of itineraries, that they bring their customers here more often, and that they stay longer when they get here.

“Tourism is a very important sector of our economy. It provides employment right across the north, and supports many local businesses. Events like this are a key component in helping us to continue to develop our tourism potential and the incredible contribution it makes

to our overall economy.”

John McGrillen, Chief Executive of Tourism Northern Ireland commented:

“Due to previous success and growing demand, we have extended our flagship Meet the Buyer event to run across two days and offer even more opportunities for our local businesses to meet and pitch to global tour operators. Showcasing the best of what NI has to offer, the event provides a unique platform for international tour operators from identified key markets to meet and do business in a series of one-to-one sales appointments, through a personal and specialised approach.

“This is an exciting time for the industry and there are big opportunities coming up, such as the 153rd Open Championship golf tournament in 2025, which will continue to shine a light on NI as a tourism destination.”

John McGrillen, Chief Executive of Tourism NI, Conor Murphy Economy Minister and Alice Mansergh, Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland.

Eye on Investment

Openreach to invest more than £100 million to extend Ultrafast Full Fibre connectivity to 97% of NI homes and businesses.

Garret Kavanagh, Director at Openreach in Northern Ireland, talks about the major investment announcement, saying “the expansion will connect 97% of communities across Northern Ireland.”

Openreach, Northern Ireland’s largest broadband network provider, has announced its commitment to invest over £100 million to expand and maintain its Ultrafast Full Fibre network connecting more than 100,000 additional homes and businesses, including extending its reach into the most rural parts of Northern Ireland.

As Director of Openreach, Garret Kavanagh oversees this ambitious extension to the Full Fibre roll out.

“This year we’ve continued to build our new network and our purpose and strategy at Openreach remain the same,” Garret says. “We keep Northern Ireland connected and we’re building the next generation of digital infrastructure, already providing over 87% of properties across Northern Ireland with the ability to upgrade to Ultrafast Full Fibre. This further £100 million investment programme will significantly extend the Openreach footprint in Northern Ireland to 97% without the need for any additional government funding, taking overall Full Fibre coverage across the region to circa 99%.” he says.

Core to this investment is Openreach’s commitment to ensuring Northern Ireland has a future-proof broadband network capable of meeting ever increasing demands.

Garret adds: “We’re very focused on our goal, because we know it will deliver the best possible outcome for our customers and help power Northern Ireland’s growth and ambition for the decades ahead. The digital future of Northern Ireland is extremely positive. We remain the most connected region in the UK, supporting inward investment, and this expansion programme will allow for a focus on providing access to an increased number of hard-toreach rural areas that traditionally have more limited access to a fast and reliable broadband connection.”

Openreach’s ambitious plan extension

is central to Northern Ireland’s digital future and economic growth.

Garret says: “We’re delighted to be announcing this significant investment to our commercial build programme. This final push will continue to have a transformative impact seen right across Northern Ireland, with some very remote rural areas being able to access Full Fibre technology for the first time.

“This technology opens up endless opportunities. By supporting business and domestic access to the right level of connectivity regardless of location, people have improved choices on where to live and work, which will in turn accelerate a rebalancing of growth across our urban and local rural communities.

“It will also support a sustainable future with more and more people able to work flexibly leading to less congestion and lessening the other associated impacts of mass commuting on our environment.

“We’re serious about being a more

responsible business, and here in Northern Ireland we already have 100 electric vehicles on the road, with many more to join the fleet this year. We’re reducing our energy consumption and waste by using goods that are from recycled sources and by partnering with our key suppliers to cut packaging and single use plastics from our supply chain. We’ve even begun our first solar panels pilot at one of our exchanges and are proud that we use 100% renewable power.”

The added investment to the Openreach build programme will mean that Openreach can continue to invest in their people.

Garret adds: “As ever, our 1,000 people are at the heart of our business. We continue to invest heavily in training and developing our existing workforce, we’ve already retrained hundreds of copper-skilled engineers to work on our new Full Fibre network and

we’ve made substantial progress on becoming more inclusive and diverse. We know this is a long journey for a business and industry like ours, but we’re committed to building a workplace that fully represents the communities we serve across Northern Ireland.”

Openreach is determined and leading the way to building a better, faster, and more connected future for everyone in Northern Ireland. Already well established as a core utility within communities, Ultrafast Full Fibre is enjoyed by more than 50% of people on our network here and the infrastructure is in place for many more end customers to speak to their service providers about upgrading their broadband connection.

To find out if you can upgrade to Ultrafast Full Fibre, visit www. openreach.co.uk

Garret Kavanagh, Director of Openreach NI

Eye on News

Female Founders Competition Launches With £175k Prize Pot for NI Start-Ups

Women-led start-ups across Northern Ireland are being invited to put themselves forward for the latest Female Founders grant competition delivered by Women in Business in partnership with Techstart Ventures.

Now in its third year, the 2024 Female Founders grant competition opens to applicants on 4th March with a £175,000 prize pot that will be divided equally between five deserving winners. The funding is provided by Techstart Ventures, and the successful applicants will also receive a business mentor through the Women in Business mentoring programme. The female-focused initiative welcomes novel business ideas from across the broad spectrum of Northern Ireland’s business community, with previous prize-winning ideas ranging from MedTech to VR to AI. Applicants have until the 30th April deadline to enter their business start-ups, with a round of pitching expected to produce a shortlist of winners between 20th and 22ndMay who will then be invited to the Women in Business All-Island Entrepreneurs Conference taking place 6th June.

Since launching the Female Founders grant fund in 2022, Women in Business and Techstart Ventures have supported the development of 12 women-led companies with vital funds to propel their business forward. Of these winners, Techstart Ventures has provided a significant amount of equity investment into four of these companies, backing the ambitious female founders to continue to build out their business idea and fuel early growth.

One of these companies is Comply First, whose co-founder Fiona Jelly commented: “The female founders grant allowed us to leave our jobs with no fear because we had that bit of gas in the tank to keep us going. I can’t thank Techstart Ventures and Women in Business enough. It was an amazing experience and literally kickstarted me on my journey and gave me the confidence to start a business.” Fiona’s relationship with Techstart Ventures initiated due to the competition and their relationship continued to develop with Techstart Ventures becoming the first investor into the company in 2022.

Kathleen Garrett, who heads-up the Grant Fund within Techstart Ventures, stated: “We are delighted to be running this Female Founders Grant Competition for a third consecutive year, in partnership with Women in Business. We hope that through this targeted competition we can inspire and encourage females throughout Northern Ireland who are

at the earliest stage of their business journey and help them accelerate with financial support and mentoring. We are really looking forward to receiving this year’s applications.”

Lorraine Acheson, Managing Director at Women in Business, added: “The appetite we’re seeing within Northern Ireland’s enterprise economy is palpable. Recent data from R3 has shown the number of firms set up here surpassed 2,000 in January – a rise of almost 200% in the space of a year.”

“Our ongoing partnership with Techstart Ventures helps ensure women-led businesses are part of that conversation. The Female Founders fund is a real incubator for women entrepreneurship enabling talented individuals to accelerate their new business ideas and positively contribute to the local economy. Together we are accelerating the next generation of women-led start-ups and I look forward to seeing the innovative ideas in this year’s applications.”

2023 winners of the Female Founders Grant Competition

Eye on Energy

Accelerating The Renewables Agenda

RenewableNI is the leading advocate for renewable energy in Northern Ireland, representing industry stakeholders and driving policy change to accelerate the transition to clean energy. Steven Agnew, RenewableNI Director, spoke to Business Eye.

On Tuesday 9 April the Department for the Economy (DfE) published the Design considerations for a renewable electricity support scheme for Northern Ireland.

This publication is a major policy moment for those in the renewable energy sector. It is expected to create a wave of new renewable electricity generation projects, following a policy vacuum and a period of stagnation.

A RenewableNI seminar with DfE’s Head of Renewable Electricity, Zoe Crowe, booked out in little over an hour with a waiting list in place before we even published the event on social media. This shows how eagerly the industry has been waiting for the details of a support scheme.

Northern Ireland has been without market support since the ROC scheme closed to new entrants in 2017, and there has been a dramatic reduction in renewable electricity generation connection since. To put it in prescriptive, 400MW was connected in 2016 alone, and only 86MW of largescale development this decade.

There is a massive pipeline of renewable projects just waiting on the right policy signals to hit go. Set up correctly and delivered on time, the new renewable electricity support scheme could be the intervention that is needed.

As more generation becomes available, consumers will have

increased energy security and protection from volatile fossil fuel prices, as well as cutting our carbon emissions.

We worked closely with DfE and our members on the design of the scheme, including commissioning the Supporting Renewables report by Cornwall Insight. It included detailed analysis of how the scheme could boost the investability of renewable projects in NI and reduce the cost to consumers by minimising risk.

With the publication of the highlevel design this month we were pleased to see concerns around some of these factors addressed. The scheme will provide a 15-year price guarantee and be index linked.

Some key details are still unknown. For example, the eligibility criteria is still being considered. This will determine whether smaller projects (<5MW) can enter the scheme. RenewableNI members, from large and small scale developers, were in agreement the scheme should be open to 1MW.

My greatest concern is the lack of clarity over the timeline for the first auction. A delivery date of 2025/26 gives DfE a two-year window. This creates uncertainty, could lead to projects being put on hold and does not reflect the urgency of the climate emergency. A more specific timeframe is needed to give greater confidence.

It is important to remember this delay financially impacts everyone reading this. Every new turbine and solar panel connected to the grid, reduces our reliance on expensive fossil fuels, bringing down consumer bills, increasing energy security and reducing our carbon emissions.

RenewableNI will continue to work constructively with DfE to get the support scheme right and on time.

While we celebrate the longawaited scheme, it is only the first step of renewable policy needed to meet the legal obligation of 80% renewable electricity by 2030. Planning timelines and grid challenges, mean the sector will

continue to face an uphill struggle to achieve 80%. We need planning consent for projects no later than 2027 to connect by 2030. Planning timelines for renewables in NI far exceed our near neighbours. This is despite recent polling showing that 73% of people here believe the local planning system should encourage the development of renewable energy. Under business as usual, NI will fall well short of the Climate Act renewables target. RenewableNI has been calling for the creation of a new Accelerating Renewables Taskforce to address the significant roadblocks that developers face. We need the Economy Minister to become a champion for renewables. The prize is clear. Over £5bn GVA to the NI economy if the 2030 target is met. Reductions in bills for both domestic and industrial consumers, making NI more competitive and a better place to live. A 75% reduction in power sector carbon emissions from where we are today.

Eye on News

Aflac Chairman & CEO Dan Amos officially opens Belfast office

Dan Amos, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Aflac Inc., a Fortune 500 company, was in Belfast recently to officially open the company’s Northern Ireland headquarters, further establishing the company’s commitment here.

Aflac employs more than 150 specialist technology staff in Belfast, where it began operations in 2019. Dan was joined on the trip by Aflac Foundation President Kathelen Amos, Aflac Senior Vice President, Chief Information Security Officer Tim Callahan and Senior Vice President, Individual Benefits Keith Farley.

Amos is among the longest-serving and most successful CEOs in the Fortune 500 with 34 years at the helm of Aflac, an international leader in the provision of supplemental health insurance, covering millions of customers in both the United States and Japan. He has appeared five times on Institutional Investor magazine’s list of America’s Best CEOs for the insurance category and has also been recognised five times as one of the 100 Best-Performing CEOs in the World by the Harvard Business Review. He was in Belfast to mark Aflac Northern Ireland’s official move to the new City Quays 3 office development and to celebrate five years since opening the

company’s Global IT and Cybersecurity Innovation Centre in Belfast in 2019.

Marking the company’s newest milestone, Aflac Inc. CEO Dan Amos, said: “Belfast and Northern Ireland play a key role in our global growth and our talented local teams are vital in delivering world class technology solutions that enable Aflac to support millions of customers at the times they need it most. Since our Belfast launch in 2019, we’re continually impressed with the talent and passion which this city and region exudes, and we are pleased with our collective success to date.

“As and innovative leader in the supplemental insurance industry, investing in technology and developing industry-leading expertise remain a top priority and we’re delighted by the outstanding performance and leadership shown by our Belfast team. I’m also grateful for the support of Invest Northern Ireland and representatives from across the city and business community for their

continued support as we invest in the region, in our people and culture.”

During its five-years in Belfast, Aflac, whose primary philanthropic cause since 1995 has been helping to support the treatment and research of childhood cancer, has established a relationship with the Children’s Cancer Unit Charity (CCUC) and the Children’s Cancer and Haematology Unit at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. To date Aflac and its employees have raised more than £45,000 for this cause. In addition, Aflac provides its award winning My Special Aflac Duck®, a smart, robotic companion designed to help children cope with a cancer diagnosis and treatment.

“A recent study conducted at 8 hospitals across the United States, including 160 children, parents and healthcare providers has demonstrated that My Special Aflac Duck is indeed helping children and parents reduce their anxiety when confronted with a cancer diagnosis,” Kathelen Amos said. “While we are anxious for the day when childhood cancer is completely eradicated, we are proud and pleased to provide our ducks to children in Northern Ireland to help them through their journey as well.”

Committed to supporting an educated workforce, Aflac has also partnered with both Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University, to provide

bursaries which assist in removing financial barriers to students who may not have had access to further education through the Queen’s Pathway Opportunity Programme and Belfast Community Scholarship respectively.

Aflac NI Managing Director Mark McCormack, who was appointed to the position in 2022 having previously been Head of Technology at the firm since 2019 said:

“I’m delighted to welcome Dan to Belfast to mark our five-year milestone and officially open our new office. Since our launch in 2019, we’ve rapidly scaled up our local presence to establish ourselves as a world-class, award-winning technology employer of choice leveraging adaptability, reinvention and resilience to provide global solutions. We are also proud to expand our partnership with CCUC as part of our commitment to the local community and to celebrate our achievements together as part of this important visit.”

Established in 1955, Aflac currently employs around 4,700 employees in the U.S. and 11,000 globally. The company is included in the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere for 18 consecutive years (2024), Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies listing for 23 years (2024) and Bloomberg’s Gender-Equality Index for the fourth consecutive year (2023).

Aflac Chairman & CEO Dan Amos officially opens Belfast office

Eye on News IntoMedia Group comes out on top at Newspaper Awards

The Newspaper Awards, widely regarded as a benchmark of excellence within the industry, celebrate outstanding achievements and innovations across various aspects of newspaper publishing. Praising The Irish News, chairman of judges Gary Cullum, said: “With market leading daily sales of 25,000-plus, and fresh from a major rebranding initiative that judges loved, The Irish News is clearly in tune with its readers.”

In addition to this achievement, Chief Marketing Officer, Annette McManus, received high commendation in the Employee of the Year category, for her work on the rebranding of the newspaper in 2023. This rebrand revitalised the newspaper, solidifying its leading position in a fiercely competitive sector.

Furthermore, The Irish News’s sister company, Interpress, was honoured with the Regional News Printer of the Year Award, showcasing the excellence and dedication for the quality and consistency of printing. Judges commented on their ‘Outstanding clean, crisp, consistent world class printing quality’ which was ‘a unanimous top choice of all the judges’. The Impartial Reporter and Belfast Telegraph Weekend Edition won Local Weekly Newspaper and Regional Supplement/Magazine of the year respectively, both titles are printed at the Interpress printing facility.

In a message to readers, The Irish News Editor-In-Chief, Chris Sherrard remarked:

“The Newspaper Awards are rightly recognised as a prestigious and important occasion in our industry’s calendar and we’re absolutely delighted to have picked up some of the biggest awards of the night.

“Such recognition is testament to the continued endeavours and dedication of The Irish News team across all departments.

“We have worked hard to establish ourselves as the best-selling regional daily newspaper in the UK and

The Irish News was named Regional Newspaper of the Year at the 2024 Newspaper Awards in London yesterday. This accolade recognises The Irish News’ unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, community engagement, and innovation in the regional news landscape.

Ireland but that is not something we take for granted and, so, the work continues every day to maintain the standards that have been set by my predecessor Noel Doran.

“I was also delighted to see richly-deserved recognition for Annette McManus and the work she carried out on the redesign of our paper which has been universally popular with readers.”

Speaking on the wins, Dominic Fitzpatrick, CEO, IntoMedia Group, owners of the Irish News, added:

“In a competitive media industry, this success not only celebrates our achievements but also reaffirms our commitment to providing Irish News readers with the highest standards

of news reporting and analysis.

“While we are developing a firstin-class digital model, we have invested heavily in our printed newspaper. It is core to our success. We will always strive to provide our readers with independent, high quality journalism, in all its forms.

“We are delighted to see Interpress win the Regional Printer of the Year award, a testament to the team’s dedication and excellence in print production. Their leadership in printing technology and innovation sets the standard for quality across the industry.

“Furthermore, Annette McManus’ highly commended achievement for Employee/Team of the Year category

is a testament of her outstanding contributions, particularly her pivotal role in the rebrand of the Irish News. It reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team in shaping the future of IntoMedia.

“These accolades underscore our ongoing commitment to investing in our company’s growth and development. By continually investing in technology, talent, and innovation, we aim to maintain our position as leaders in the media landscape, delivering exceptional content to our readers.”

IntoMedia CEO Dominic Fitzpatrick, centre, receiving the Regional Newspaper of the Year award for The Irish News in London.

POWERING THE BUSINESS TRANSITION TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES

As Northern Ireland’s transition towards electrifying commercial fleets continues, Graeme Thompson, Chief Financial Officer at leading electric vehicle infrastructure company Weev, analyses the factors behind businesses making the shift.

Traditionally considered as a desirable by many businesses, electric vehicles (EVs) are on their way to becoming more of a ‘must have’ sustainable mode of transport for their fleets.

Northern Ireland firms, in line with the Republic of Ireland and the rest of the United Kingdom, are rapidly transitioning their commercial vehicle fleets to electric.

As Weev Chief Financial Officer Graeme Thompson explains, there are a number of environmental, economic, operational and reputational factors driving the shift, not to mention stringent Government targets.

It has been well documented that transitioning commercial fleets to electric vehicles is a crucial step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the environmental impacts of driving.

What Graeme feels can sometimes go under the radar, though, is how making the switch to electric vehicles can help businesses future-proof their operations against the everevolving regulatory landscapes as the global drive to improve sustainability continues at pace.

“The decisions many fleet managers make could have a much more tangible economic impact on the performance of their business than they realise,” Graeme continued.

“For example, the requirements for many multinational corporates and public bodies to comply with standards set by the International Sustainability Standards Board, under IFRS, mean suppliers or public sector tenderers are expected to meet the same high sustainability targets. The conversion of a commercial fleet to EVs could, therefore, be the difference in a company winning or losing contracts and the revenue they bring.”

Strong pedigree

As Ireland’s leading electric vehicle infrastructure company, with a strong pedigree in providing endto-end EV solutions that facilitate domestic, workplace and public charging, Weev is at the heart of the business community’s bid to electrify its commercial fleet.

And a key message from the company, which has made a dramatic impact on the market since forming in 2022, is that

Eye on Cover Story

there is no need for businesses to be fearful of the switch.

“It is much easier than business owners or fleet managers sometimes think, with companies often being a lot more EV-ready than they had realised,” Graeme said.

“Education is an important step in the transition process. There will still be people out there who, when asked about

chargers, whether at the workplace, home or public network locations.

“We have recently introduced an Electric Vehicle Suitability Assessment (EVSA) which sees us carry out a full assessment of a company’s fleet and premises, in terms of the existing power infrastructure, any additional charging capacity required and the typical driving routes of vehicles in the fleet.

“For an executive vehicle, converting your company car to electric and benefitting from ultra-low benefit-in-kind rates, you could be saving £400 or £500 a month. It is far from insignificant.”

switching to electric vehicles, will instinctively say it is not for them.

Very often, however, that will be because they do not realise just how smooth the process is.

“Fibrus is a great example of a business Weev has partnered with that has made a seamless transition to electric vehicles. We installed workplace chargers at its Belfast workplace 18 months ago and its fleet of electric vehicles has expanded to almost 50 since then, with drivers charging at Weev’s

“For larger fleets, this can mean identifying parts of their regular routes that are currently underserved by our public charging network, and filling this gap by installing charging points where they are needed.”

Boosting staff retention

Staff morale and retention are, of course, as important as ever to businesses in today’s challenging economic environment. Those

charged with looking after the finances in any firm will warmly welcome an initiative that allows it to provide employees with a benefit that carries little or no cost.

That is what the salary sacrifice scheme, which Weev has partnered with Octopus EV on, does.

“The attraction of a salary sacrifice scheme is that the employee is essentially buying the electric vehicle out of their pre-tax salary, therefore saving the tax element,” Graeme explained.

“For a small family car that works out, approximately, at a saving of about £200 a month for an electric vehicle against a personal contract hire.

“Alternatively, for an executive vehicle, converting your company car to electric and benefitting from ultra-low benefit-in-kind rates, you could be saving £400 or £500 a month. It is far from insignificant.”

Underpinning the transition to more electric vehicles are new regulations that came into force at the start of this year, with the UK Government saying that these will increase electric vehicle sales and help grow the charging infrastructure.

The zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate states that, this year, 10% of vans and 22% of cars sold by manufacturers will need

to be electric. The targets for manufacturers will increase each year, requiring 80% of new cars and 70% of new vans sold in Great Britain to be zero emission by 2030, increasing to 100% by 2035.

“Any car manufacturer that misses these targets will face significant financial penalties, so you can see how seriously the industry is taking this issue,” Graeme observed.

“The manufacturers have a responsibility to move the market, and that will filter down to businesses, bringing us back to the notion of electric vehicles becoming more than a ‘nice to have’.

“Northern Ireland’s transition to electric vehicles has picked up pace, but challenges still exist for fleet managers and business owners making the switch. At Weev, though, we accept these challenges and are meeting them by increasingly expanding the charging network.”

Northern Ireland Hotels Federation Releases Groundbreaking Report

The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) has launched a report, “Hotels 2024”, providing a comprehensive analysis of the current hotel landscape, investments, and emerging trends.

The report, launched as part of the Federation’s Business Outlook event hosted by Mark Simpson at the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel on 20th March 2024, marks a significant milestone as the NIHF celebrates its twentyfifth anniversary this year.

Eddie McKeever, President of Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF), said: “The industry has been transformed since 1999 investing over £1.5 billion and almost doubling the number of bedrooms in the sector. As a profession we support 10,000 jobs

directly and a further 5,000 either indirectly or induced. It is a story of success which has the ability to grow and provide further economic benefit to Northern Ireland.”

Janice Gault, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF), shared insights gleaned from the report, noting the presence of over seventy hotelrelated projects, with nine currently underway. She said: “The recent 2% growth in hotel bedrooms in 2023 has been fuelled by notable openings such as The Ebrington Hotel in Derry-Londonderry and

Room2 hometel in Belfast. At the moment, there are nine live projects which represent £100 million in investment, with potential future investments reaching £200 million. Progress from concept to construction is a protracted one with projects adapting and evolving to reflect new consumer trends. Predictions for 2024 suggest growth around the 2% level this year with a spurt in the 2025-26 timeframe.

“The advantages of purchasing existing hotels over building new ones are twofold: speed and cost-effectiveness. Given the challenges of inflation and rising construction costs, acquiring a hotel presents a significantly faster and more economical option. This approach aligns with current industry trends,

as evidenced by a notable shift towards mid to upper-scale star ratings. Emerging patterns include the revitalisation of historic sites into hotels, offering guests an authentic and immersive experience.

“Furthermore, there is a burgeoning market for resort properties, characterised by diverse experiences and dining options onsite. The popularity of in-house dining post-pandemic demonstrates the importance of these amenities. To meet evolving guest preferences, hotels are diversifying their offerings with independent dwellings, suites, and apartments alongside traditional hotel bedrooms.

“The average hotel is now 65 bedrooms. The report notes a market trend towards polarisation, with boutique hotels coexisting alongside larger-scale developments. While political stability and the return of The Northern Ireland Executive have been welcomed, challenges persist, including securing affordable financing, addressing the 20% VAT rate, attracting suitable staff, and navigating the impending introduction of the ETA, perceived as a potential barrier to allisland tourism development.”

Despite the challenges, the report reinforces the industry’s resilience and commitment to growth, with continued investments driving job creation and community transformation. Over the past twenty-five years, the sector has witnessed a £1.5 billion investment, resulting in a vibrant hospitality landscape. Looking ahead, the NIHF anticipates another transformative phase, further solidifying its position as a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s economy.

Eddie McKeever, President of Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) and Janice Gault, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF).

Eye on News

CGI’S CYBER ESCAPE EXPERIENCE VISITS BELFAST

Titanic Hotel Belfast has announced a partnership with Cancer Fund for Children, a leading charity dedicated to supporting children and families affected by cancer.

In response to the exponential increase in cyber-crime and its detrimental impact on our economy and society, CGI, one of the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world, which established a Digital Centre of Excellence in Belfast last year, brought its ‘Cyber Escape Experience’ to Northern Ireland for the first time. The immersive and interactive experience, which models an escape room packed with cyber security themed puzzles and challenges, was sited at Custom House Square in Belfast City Centre. During the visit it was offered freely to schools, colleges, community groups and business organisations to learn more about cyber security and leave with practical skills to combat this issue. Throughout

the week, CGI welcomed local school children, university students and researchers, representatives from the age sector including Age NI and the Commissioner for Older People, as well as representatives from the local business community and justice sector. They all participated in a simulated “real-life” setting housed in a purpose-built shipping container to accomplish cyber-related tasks to enable them to escape the room successfully in the allotted time.

Latest Action Fraud figures suggest that in the last 13 months there have been nearly 6,000 reported cases of cyber-crime in Northern Ireland resulting in a huge financial loss of £24m across individuals and organisations, particularly among our most vulnerable groups. The

records show that the highest number of cases reported based on age came from the 20-29 years old age group, however, the highest average financial loss per report was from the 70-79 years-old age group. This would indicate the need for all demographics to be educated further on the importance of cyber security and how to stay ahead of the cyber criminals.

With these statistics in mind, Michelle Sherrard, Director Consulting Services for CGI in Northern Ireland outlined the purpose of the Cyber Escape Experience visit to Belfast, “The first line of defence in keeping everyone digitally safe is making sure everyone is cyber security aware. CGI is encouraging more vigilance and better awareness when it comes to cybersecurity and the Cyber Escape Experience presented a unique opportunity for individuals of all ages to hone their skills in a safe and fun environment whilst learning more about protecting themselves and their organisations when online.

“As a relatively new entity in Northern Ireland, CGI is committed to helping the people of Northern Ireland become cyber security aware and we believe that we can use our expertise and resources to help them stay safe online.”

Chris Shorthouse, Vice President, Client Engagement, Scotland & Northern Ireland added; “We live in a highly computer literate world, but things evolve and change very quickly, and we know that cyber criminals are becoming more sophisticated all the time. In response to that reality, more needs to be done to educate people on how to protect themselves and their business interests online. Our Cyber Escape Experience has proven very popular and beneficial across the rest of the UK, and we were very pleased to bring it to Northern Ireland for the first time. Working with partners and local stakeholders we believe it can help reinforce their efforts to protect people of all ages and backgrounds from the cyber criminals.”

Michelle Sherrard of CGI with pupils from Millennium Primary School in Carryduff

Eye on Insurance

Staying ahead of the curve has propelled us from a family-run brokerage to Northern Ireland’s largest insurance broker

50 years as an insurance leader by embracing change and driving innovation

In the fast-paced world of insurance, staying ahead of the curve is not just an advantage—it’s a necessity, and this ethos has propelled our evolution from a family-run brokerage to Northern Ireland’s largest insurance broker, says Julie Gibbons, Managing Director of AbbeyAutoline.

Having concluded our 50th Anniversary celebrations in 2023, our foresight in anticipating market changes has been key to our success. Now, as we look to the future, we are more focused than ever on leveraging technology, enhancing our services and expanding our offerings to meet the evolving needs of our clients.

Our growth over the past five decades has been remarkable. We’ve expanded to a formidable presence with 17 branches across Northern Ireland and beyond, including a strategic footprint in the Republic of Ireland.

With a dedicated workforce of over 450 employees, we offer a comprehensive range of Personal and Commercial products, including Car, Home, Business, Van, Haulage, Farm, Taxi, and Motorbike insurance.

In 2023, we not only celebrated our 50th Anniversary but also achieved significant growth, particularly within our Commercial Lines business. Our commitment to the high street was reinforced with branch relocations in Portadown and Newtownards, demonstrating our dedication to being accessible and responsive to our customers. Our growth reflects our dedication to excellence and progress that drives us to continually adapt to changing market trends. We have stayed ahead of the competition by spotting what is coming next. This is highlighted by our merger with Autoline five years ago and the acquisition of BMG Insurance in 2022. These strategic moves have

broadened our commercial offerings and infused fresh expertise that enhanced our capabilities and allowed us to offer more comprehensive solutions to our customers. This strategic foresight and agility allowed us to drive significant growth by maintaining a competitive edge in a dynamic market landscape.

Our accolade as Commercial Lines Broker of the Year at The British Insurance Awards 2023 is recognition of our relentless pursuit of excellence and our unwavering commitment to our customers. It reflects our philosophy of providing transparent, efficient, and tailored services that address the specific needs of our customers.

We offer our customers the support and guidance they need to navigate the complexities of today’s insurance market. We have a highly experienced team of Commercial specialists to support a wide range of local businesses.

We are backed by a comprehensive product portfolio, strong relationships with the world’s leading insurers, finance providers and claims handling specialists to ensure we deliver security, flexibility and peace of mind. We also provide an internal claims handling service to ensure any issues are resolved quickly and efficiently.

Looking ahead to the remainder of 2024 and beyond, we are poised to embrace the opportunities that await. We are geared towards strengthening our ties to the community and maintaining a prominent presence on the high street.

The recent branch relocations in Portadown and Newtownards and our ongoing community programme of initiatives are a testament to our commitment to the local communities who have supported us over the years.

We also firmly believe that the foundation of our success lies in the

strength and expertise of our people.

Recognising that our team is our most valuable asset, we are committed to fostering their growth and well-being through continuous learning opportunities, supportive work environments and initiatives that enhance their professional and personal development.

By investing in our people, we are ensuring that our business is equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities of an everevolving market landscape with agility and expertise.

The insurance landscape is continuously evolving, shaped by technological advancements and changing consumer expectations. We are at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging digital innovations, alongside our traditional high-street model, to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed the expectations of our customers.

These digital initiatives in tandem with our commitment to our branchbased model is about enhancing the customer experience, making insurance more accessible and delivering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of every client.

Our journey over the past 50 years has been marked by growth, innovation and an unwavering commitment to our clients and community.

As we look to the future, our vision remains clear: to continue leading with innovation, excellence and a deep understanding of the markets we serve.

Julie Gibbons Managing Director AbbeyAutoline.

Eye on Trade

Go Further Grow Strongerthe benefits of selling outside Northern Ireland

By Anne Beggs, Invest Northern Ireland’s Director Trade and Investment

The benefits of exporting are well documented at both a company and overall economy level.

Besides offering significant growth opportunities through increased sales and enhancing resilience from economic shocks, firms exporting to a wide range of markets contribute to improving productivity, driving innovation, and their export-fuelled growth can create and sustain high quality jobs. And importantly for Northern Ireland, the distribution of export activity right across the region

means that trade and its associated benefits, can be a driver of regionally balanced and inclusive growth.

Economy Minister, Conor Murphy stated in his Economic Vision that the Windsor Framework puts Northern Ireland in the unique and highly advantageous position of being able to trade goods freely with both Great Britain (GB) and European Union (EU) market. But whilst some 12,000 of Northern

Ireland’s 80,000 VAT-registered businesses currently sell outside the region, leveraging our dual market access advantage presents scope to increase Northern Ireland’s exporting base, and the value of our sales to these two major economies.

As businesses begin to export, they will naturally look to the nearest markets – GB and the Republic of Ireland (RoI), and indeed these make up the greatest portion of all sales outside Northern Ireland. In 2022, of the £29bn of sales outside Northern Ireland, over half went to GB, 22% to RoI and just 9% to the rest of the EU. In the context of a European economy of 500 million consumers, that imports €6.5 trillion of goods annually, including sectors that align with Northern Ireland’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, agri-food, and life and health sciences, there is clearly room for growth. And with Northern Ireland’s continued regulatory alignment with EU standards and no additional approvals needed to place regulated goods on the GB market, we are the ideal source market for EU and GB buyers of such goods.

For those businesses already selling successfully into RoI, going ‘off-island’, and targeting mainland Europe is the natural next step. Simply put, if you’re selling to Louth or Limerick, your next step could be to explore Lille or Lisbon.

Among the Northern Ireland companies that are already successfully exporting to the EU is Saintfield company Bellamoon. The award-winning company exports its innovative baby products to France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain. And Ballyclare-based Genie Insights, which supplies solar panels designed for use on commercial vehicles, has customers

in GB, RoI, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia. PAC Composites, a specialist division of PAC Group based in Belfast, is a premier supplier of equipment for the composites industry and has recently won new business in the Netherlands.

Invest Northern Ireland has a wide range of support for businesses that are either already exporting or are considering taking their first steps into markets outside Northern Ireland. Our Go Further Grow Stronger initiative highlights this support, which includes comprehensive market information and in-market trade advisers across GB and mainland Europe, who can advise on how to pitch for business, provide local insights and identify potential customers or partners.

As a first step, businesses can test their export readiness by completing Invest NI’s free Export Health Check which provides a tailored report. It is quick to complete, and businesses can request a follow-up call from an Invest NI adviser who will provide tailored guidance including signposting them to relevant sources of support to help them build a strategy for breaking into a new market.

Whether your business is getting ready to sell outside Northern Ireland for the first time or you’re looking to expand sales into the EU, Invest NI can help.

Grow your sales in Europe

Invest NI can help you tap into the European market with our advice and support. With a population of over 700 million, Europe is home to some of the world’s leading economies.

You can receive help with:

- market scoping

- lead generation

- identifying partners

- distribution channels

Assess your export-readiness online for free.

Start your Export Health Check at investni.com/export

Paris, France

Eye on Policy

NI’S CLIMATE ACTION PLAN –NEXT STEPS

Sixteen leaders from government and the housing, construction and energy sectors met in the Ulster University Board Room, Belfast on 8 March for a roundtable discussion on forging Northern Ireland’s path to net zero energy.

The event focused on energy efficiency and was the second in a series of Policy Eye roundtable discussions, co-hosted by Ulster University’s Built Environment Research Institute and law firm Cleaver Fulton Rankin (CFR). Organised by strategic communications consultancy Chambré and chaired by energy industry commentator Jamie Delargy , each roundtable is themed around a key strand of the NI Executive’s Energy Strategy.

Northern Ireland’s first carbon budget is expected to be brought to the Stormont Executive and Assembly very soon, and assuming that it is approved, “our intention is to move quickly to progress to a consultation on Northern Ireland’s first Climate Action Plan,” confirmed Kevin Hegarty, Director of Green Growth and Climate Change at the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. Within this context, immediate priorities for the Department

for Communities (DfC) include

finalising the Residential Buildings Sector chapter of the Climate Action Plan, incorporating policies and proposals to reduce energy consumption, increasing the use of low carbon heat and raising building standards, including building regulations uplifts, said Angus Kerr, DfC’s Climate Change Director. There was consensus around the table that much more work is needed to drive decarbonisation and retrofitting in the housing sector. While a lot has happened with social housing, there are “big challenges” in the private sector, according to Professor Martin Haran of Ulster University. Many private homeowners are willing to make changes, but “we’re considerably lagging behind” the financial incentives that exist in the rest of the UK and Ireland

Another key task is addressing the misconception that future-proofing a home means it practically has to be knocked down and rebuilt, argued Jan Sloan, Executive Director of Development and New Business at Clanmil Housing. Similarly, some social housing tenants have resisted boiler replacements because they are afraid it will cost more to run; therefore education is needed around the saving potential of greater energy efficiency, said Grainia Long, Chief Executive of the NI Housing Executive (NIHE). Despite these challenges, a lot of improvements could be delivered in cavity wall and loft insultation, and those “low cost and low disruption” interventions should be short-term priorities, said the Royal Society of Ulster Architects’ Ciarán Fox. Around half of our homes need these type of treatments, added Ryan White,

Eye on Policy

Director Heat, Buildings and Climate Change at the Department for the Economy. And in newer stock, there are opportunities to act earlier and fit heat pumps when their existing boilers need replaced.

In the social housing sector, NIHE has completed retrofits on 1,400 properties, but there is frustration that funding isn’t available to expand on that work. Much more could be achieved if NIHE had borrowing powers, Grainia Long argued.

A top-down approach from government is key to incentivising more energy-efficient building from the construction sector, according to Vicki Johnston, a sustainability advisor at Farrans Construction.

“Contractual clauses are what drive

us to be more sustainable,” she said.

Opportunities to “further their sustainability credentials” are also important for companies and investors when deciding which buildings to occupy and invest in, said Joe Marley, Director at Cleaver Fulton Rankin Solicitors. Larger investors, in particular, will have environment, social and governance (ESG) commitments to meet, but the scale of the challenge in the non-domestic sector is stark, with approximately 19% of commercial stock with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), currently sitting below an E EPC rating.

Looking elsewhere, Ireland has had important successes in its national retrofit programme due to multi-year budget commitments

of one option in the Department of Finance is suggesting a minimum of 30% of new builds will use heat pumps in the time ahead, with full introduction of low carbon heating requirements very shortly thereafter. But there is a balance to be struck given the higher costs of low carbon fuels, said John Burke from the Department‘s Building Regulations Unit. The transition to net zero needs to be for everyone, argued Angus Kerr. With 24% of people in Northern Ireland already living in fuel poverty, retrofit and low carbon heat measures need to be open and affordable. The DfC is in the early stages of developing a new Fuel Poverty Strategy and a new affordable warmth scheme, which will prioritise energy efficiency and deliver manageable heating costs for customers.

from government, which has fostered confidence to invest, according to Stuart Hobbs, Director of Energy Services in Ireland for SSE Airtricity. But Ireland hasn’t gotten everything right. A lack of skills capacity means annual deep retrofit targets aren’t going to be met and Northern Ireland should learn from this and start investing in the skills network early There is work to do on the skills front, because the money being committed by the Irish Government means we’re losing talent, said Grainia Long. Sustainable development and energy efficiency are innate to the curriculum for construction, manufacturing and engineering students in further education, Belfast Met’s Louise Warde said. However, it is crucial that those qualifications are relevant to the needs of employers, she said.

Embedding a culture of decarbonisation in new build stock is critical. The Future Homes Standard proposals and recent uplifts in GB are showing the administrative and legislative complexity in moving to only low carbon heating systems being installed in new builds. The immediate, local challenge involves stepping away from oil to low carbon heating. Current modelling

Turning to transport, changing behaviours around car use will play an important role in delivering net zero, argued Sian Kerr, Director of Transport Policy and Planning at the Department for Infrastructure. This is particularly the case with single-person and short-distance car journeys.

While electric vehicles have a role to play, “the rate of replacement of Northern Ireland’s vehicle fleet to low or zero carbon is well behind the target of 100% by 2050”, said Peter Morrow of transportation consultants AECOM. This makes it all the more important that public transport better meets people’s needs in the short term – for multiple journey purposes, not just commuting”. The problem, he added, is the funding model, because “we need to fund an enhanced operating model to deliver the significant modal shift that we need”.

The success of the hybrid electric Glider bus network in Belfast highlights how decarbonisation can be unlocked with investment in public transport. Ian Campbell, Director of Service Operations at Translink, noted that the Glider G1 route helped to deliver modal shift of nearly 10%.

Translink is on course to reach its 2040 net zero target, Campbell added. Electrification of the rail network is a longer term investment and funding is being sought from the Shared Island Fund and other sources.

Energy industry commentator & meeting chair Jamie Delargy

Eye on Charity

CANCER FOCUS NI ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD

Local cancer charity Cancer Focus NI has announced new appointments to its Board of Trustees.

Venture capitalist Boyd Carson, former PwC Director in New York and co-founder and partner at Sapphire Capital Partners, takes on the role of Chair while Professor Mark Lawler, Professor of Digital Health at Queen’s University and a leading voice

in international cancer research and care, is the new Vice-Chair.

Taking over as the charity’s new Treasurer is existing board member Violet Spence, a chartered certified accountant with a career in public sector finance and with Danske Bank. The trio will help to guide

Northern Ireland’s leading and local cancer charity into a period of major changes, which will include the opening of five regional Therapeutic Cancer Support

Centres in local towns and cities.

The first of these, in Enniskillen, will open later this year and all will help bring cancer care and support

directly into local communities. “I’m honoured to be taking on the role of Chair at Cancer Focus Northern Ireland at such a crucial time as we prepare to open our first Cancer Support Centre in Enniskillen,” says Boyd Carson, who has previously served as Treasurer and Chair of the charity’s

Professor Mark Lawler, Violet Spence and Boyd Carson.

Eye on Charity

Finance & Policy Committee.

“As someone from the business community, I’m particularly keen to see more businesses and key individuals stepping forward to support a charity which continues to make a tangible difference to the lives of those affected by cancer in our community.”

The new Cancer Support Centres set out to deliver cancer care, advice, and support directly to patients and their families both immediately after diagnosis and throughout their cancer journeys. The non-clinical environments that will be on offer will be new to the Northern Ireland region.

A native of Northern Ireland, Boyd Carson spent ten years in New York as a director of PwC’s Mergers & Acquisition department. Returning to Northern Ireland for family reasons, he stayed home and set up Sapphire Capital Partners.

The firm now ranks as the largest Northern Ireland-based venture capital provider with some £500 million of investments under management, concentrating on start-ups and early growth stage companies. It has some investments here, but most are spread across London, the rest of England as well as Scotland.

Sapphire operates two investment

“All the money we raise in Northern Ireland, through our network of shops and fundraising initiatives, stays in Northern Ireland, with 80 pence in every pound currently being invested back into our services across the province. We want people to understand the massive impact their donations make to local people and families impacted by cancer.”

funds for QUBIS, Queen’s University’s investment vehicle.

Outside of his Sapphire and Cancer Focus NI commitments, Boyd Carson is also an Honorary Professor in Venture Capital at Queen’s University and is a part-time lecturer at Harvard.

Supporting Boyd as the charity’s new Vice-Chair is the highly experienced Professor Mark Lawler, a passionate and committed cancer research expert brought north by Paddy Johnston, who led the development of the medical school and Institute of Health Sciences at Queen’s before going on to become Vice-Chancellor.

The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research bears his name.

“We have a cancer centre at

Queen’s that really flies the flag for Northern Ireland,” says Professor Mark Lawler. “But our hospitals and our research would be nowhere if it wasn’t for charities like Cancer Focus NI. They’ve got a huge role to play in raising funds for both cancer research and to invest in the care of patients and their families.”

Violet Spence spent 14 years in finance within the Northern Ireland public sector as well as a similar amount of time in banking with Northern Bank, later Danske Bank.

“I’m delighted to be taking on the role of Treasurer and Chair of the Finance & Policy Committee at an exciting time for the charity.

“All the money we raise in Northern Ireland, through our network of shops and fundraising

initiatives, stays in Northern Ireland, with 80 pence in every pound currently being invested back into our services across the province. We want people to understand the massive impact their donations make to local people and families impacted by cancer.”

Welcoming the three to their new roles, Richard Spratt, Chief Executive at Cancer Focus NI thanked them for their continued passion and support of the charity’s work.

“To say that the charity, the clients we support, and the sector in general will benefit from their experience is an understatement. Like many charities, we face challenges around how best to adapt to changing beneficiary needs, how we respond to funding challenges, and how we create the best environment for our staff to thrive.

“I’m confident that their committed and strong leadership as well as strategic thinking will mean that we will be fit for the future and continue to put those we support at the very heart of what we do.”

Work starts on new Lidl Northern Ireland store in West Belfast

Construction work to create a new, larger and sustainably focused Lidl Northern Ireland supermarket at Stewartstown Road in West Belfast is underway, spearheading a significant investment and jobs boost for the local area.

Lidl Northern Ireland, the region’s fastest-growing supermarket retailer, received planning approval last year from Belfast City Council following an extensive public consultation to replace the existing store and add more space as part of a new, bright and modern design that promotes sustainability and an enhanced customer shopping experience.

The existing store will remain open to customers as initial building works progress to extend to the rear of the site. The final phase of works will see the store temporarily

close in early August to facilitate the demolition and rebuild of the new, state-of-the-art store.

Local shoppers will be warmly accommodated at the nearby Lidl Andersonstown Road store during the temporary closure, with customers notified in advance.

This major local investment will add 20 new jobs to Lidl Northern Ireland’s established local team of 20 in West Belfast when it opens later this year, with over 100 construction jobs supported during the new build phase.

Welcoming the start

of construction work at Stewartstown Road, Lidl Northern Ireland’s Regional Managing Director Ivan Ryan said: “Our Stewartstown Road store was one of the first to open in the region so it’s only fitting that, in our milestone 25th anniversary year, we’re progressing construction of a modern new store for our valued local customers.

Located next to a busy retail complex and serving a thriving community, the store’s transformation will positively impact the area, with new

landscaped pathways providing improved accessibility to the store as well as a modern shopping experience that brings real choice and value to shoppers every day.

As we break ground on the new store, we are working closely with our contractor to carefully plan construction to best meet the needs of the local community, ensuring that the existing Stewartstown Road store can remain open for as long as possible as works progress.

This is a highly anticipated project and we have liaised extensively with local representatives and the wider community to realise this significant investment. When completed, the new Stewartstown Road store will represent an outstanding addition to the local area, and we look forward to unveiling the new-look store later this year.”

The new store will include a larger sales area of 1670 sq. m with 150 parking spaces including six dedicated accessible bays and six parent and child bays. In line with Lidl Northern Ireland’s newest stores, Stewartstown Road will also feature an in-house bakery, wider aisles and longer, more spacious checkout areas, customer bathroom and employee welfare facilities.

When opened, the Stewartstown store will also be one of the most sustainable in the region, with LED lighting, heat pumps and PV solar panels reducing carbon emissions and will include an onsite pollinator garden encouraging biodiversity.

Councillor Tracy Kelly, Lidl Northern Ireland’s Regional Managing Director Ivan Ryan, Sinn Fein councillor Séanna Walsh and Conor McCauley, Senior Projects Manager at McCallion Group.

Eye on News

RenewableNI, the voice of the renewable electricity industry, has welcomed the publication of the new renewable electricity support scheme for Northern Ireland.

The renewable electricity support scheme is a crucial policy measure by the Department for the Economy that will issue a new wave of renewable generation projects after a decade of stagnation.

The scheme will boost the investability of renewable projects in NI and protect consumers from price hikes.

The KPMG report Accelerating Renewables in NI, commissioned by RenewableNI last year, revealed 82 per cent of developers said NI was an unattractive place to invest. Lack of government support was named as the main barrier by 37 per cent of investors.

RenewableNI Director, Steven Agnew said:

“There is a massive pipeline of renewable projects just waiting on the right policy signals to hit go. Got right and delivered timely, this could

Renewable electricity support scheme will stimulate boom says RenewableNI Belfast Harbour welcomes new pilot boat Hibernia

Belfast Harbour has this week taken delivery of its newest vessel, the Pilot Boat Hibernia, which represents a £1.5m investment in its marine fleet.

Hibernia will be tasked with transporting pilots to and from ships calling at Belfast as part of the service provided by Belfast Harbour which helps ships safely navigate through the port, to and from their designated berth.

Belfast Harbour handles more than 23.9 million tonnes of trade every year and its pilot boat fleet needs to operate 24 hours a day 365 days a year, therefore it is vital to ensure downtime is kept to a minimum.

The new vessel, built by Holyhead Marine Services, will replace PB4; the oldest pilot boat in Belfast Harbour’s fleet, which is being retired after 24 years of service.

With a lightweight, resin infused hull and refined shape, the new Hibernia has a fuel-efficient hull design and engines that are able to run on Hydrotreated

be the intervention that is needed.

“Northern Ireland has gone from leading to lagging behind. There has been only 86MW of new connection in the last decade, compared to 400MW in 2016 when there last was a support scheme.

“We are in the unique position to have examples from neighbouring support schemes, such as the GB Contracts for Difference and ROI Renewable Energy Support Scheme. While in recent years this meant investment has been diverted away from NI, it now is a positive opportunity to learn from what has and hasn’t worked.

“RenewableNI is looking forward to working constructively with the DfE to get this right. Working together, we can protect consumers from high costs of energy and ensure a security of supply.”

The support scheme will address key factors that will de-risk investment and result in lower prices.

Steven continued: “Everyone knows the decisions made over the next year will determine the success or failure of the 2030 target.

“RenewableNI has been calling for

RenewableNI says the new scheme is only the first step of renewable policy needed to meet the legal obligation of 80% renewable electricity by 2030.

the creation of a new Accelerating Renewables Taskforce. The climate emergency isn’t being treated that way. Planning timelines, grid development and policy uncertainly need urgent action.”

Vegetable Oil (HVO) helping to reduce carbon emissions from pilot boat operations. It is also believed that it will be the first pilot vessel on the island of Ireland equipped with a selective catalytic reduction exhaust system, which reduces nitrous oxide emissions.

The name Hibernia has a strong history and connection with Belfast Harbour. William Ritchie started shipbuilding in the city in 1791, on the site of the future Harbour Office. Within a year, the 300 tonne Hibernia was launched, which began trading between Belfast, New York and

the Caribbean. Over 230 years later Belfast Harbour is proud to bring the new Pilot Boat Hibernia into service at the Port.

Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour, has been named as the godmother of Pilot Boat Hibernia at a traditional naming ceremony designed to bring luck to the vessel and keep the crew safe.

Michael Robinson, Port Director at Belfast Harbour, said: “We are delighted to welcome Hibernia to our fleet of pilot boats at Belfast Harbour. We wanted to purchase a vessel that would advance and improve the resilience of this mission critical service. Our crew and engineers worked closely with the boat builder, Holyhead Marine Ltd, from the outset, as the project progressed from design through to delivery.

“We’re committed to becoming a green port and sustainability is a core element of everything that we do. We were able to incorporate environmental improvements into the design of Hibernia which will help us on this decarbonisation journey.”

Michael Robinson, Port Director and Dr Theresa Donaldson, Chair of Belfast Harbour and godmother of Pilot Boat Hibernia at a traditional naming ceremony

Eye on Tourism

An Inclusive Vision for Tourism in Northern Ireland

Our vision is for tourism as an ecosystem to bring opportunity for all, with lasting economic and social benefits that are felt by communities across the whole of Northern Ireland. We are aiming for a fairer distribution of opportunities, specifically ensuring that our young people have access to better opportunities across NI.

Tourism is a people-oriented industry and so it therefore has a major role to play in delivering inclusive, balanced sub-regional growth. In 2019, employment in the tourism and hospitality sectors was geographically dispersed with 70% of those jobs existing outside of Belfast, showing that the tourism sector in Northern Ireland offers inclusive opportunities throughout

all regions and to all ages.

Tourism has the ability to address economic inactivity in both our urban and rural communities and is one of the few industry sectors which has the potential to create substantial employment across every part of Northern Ireland and within every section of our society.

By placing an emphasis on our people, their skills and professionalism we aim to

enhance the attractiveness of Northern Ireland as a world class visitor destination.

Inclusive Initiatives –

Embrace the Inclusive Spirit

Understanding that 23% of people in NI have a disability, 40% of households in NI include a disabled resident and £249 billion is spent by disabled customers in the UK each year,

businesses should be prioritising this section of the community and doing as much as they can to improve accessibility for all.

Inclusive initiatives and partnerships which we have supported at Tourism NI include Belfast’s first inclusive tourism event. On 20 February 2024 Belfast City Council, supported by Tourism NI, hosted Belfast’s first inclusive tourism seminar called ‘Embrace

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy with Eimear Callaghan, Tourism NI; Judith Owens, Titanic Belfast and MaryJo McCanny, Visit Belfast at the launch of the ‘Embrace the Inclusive Spirit’ initiative to support Belfast’s growing tourism sector.

Eye on Tourism

the Inclusive Spirit: How welcoming disabled visitors makes business sense’. The aim of this event was to bring together a range of stakeholders, agencies and tourism businesses to explore how we improve our tourism offering, making it accessible for all.

The all day seminar was a partnership initiative developed by Belfast City Council and supported by Tourism Northern Ireland, Visit Belfast, Titanic Belfast and Open Arts. It was free to attend and concentrated on how welcoming disabled visitors makes business sense. Hosted by disability rights activist Seán Fitzsimmons, the seminar included guest speakers; Irish writer, educator, disability activist and director of Tilting the Lens Sinéad Burke, Mary Jo McCanny from Visit Belfast and Amy Walmsley from AcessAble. This free resource supports tourism providers and services to put inclusivity at the heart of their business covering topics such as; welcoming and communicating with tourists with disabilities, accessible communications and guidance as well as audio and web accessibility.

Tourism NI also provides guidance online for businesses on how to make their websites more accessible and inclusive as well as providing guidance for tour guides on how to promote inclusivity through their guiding. More accessible tours delivered by skilled, professional tourist guides benefits every visitor, not only those with additional needs. For example, Crumlin Road Gaol in Belfast now offer British Sign Language, which allows their material to be interpreted via sign videos, making the tour more accessible and enhancing the inclusiveness of their self-guided tours.

Inclusive success will mean more sectors of the economy across the whole of Northern Ireland will benefit from tourism. Tourism investment, conferences and events

will also have tangible benefits to local communities and the sector will be actively engaged with local communities as valued stakeholders in tourism development and delivery. Our aim will be that tourism will be an inclusive employer offering a diverse range of desirable career paths to people throughout Northern Ireland.

Contributing to a more inclusive economy

One challenge for the sector is understanding the perception of tourism as a career choice. Without a confident, well trained and professional workforce there is no visitor experience. Therefore, there is an urgent need to address the skills gaps within the tourism sector, to develop tourism career opportunities and life-long career pathways, and to create a sector that people of all ages aspire to work in.

Ways to improve inclusivity in the tourism sector include:

• Employers being able to offer staff competitive salaries.

• Staff seeing career pathways in the tourism industry.

• Staff having the opportunities to secure further training and qualifications.

• Comfortable and equitable working conditions which facilitate an accessible, competitive and attractive industry in which to work.

Taking these actions should result in an annual increase in the number of employees within the tourism sector from underrepresented groups. This includes those who are economically inactive, those who have disabilities, and those who come from deprived areas all contributing to an equitable distribution of opportunities to all our people.

Case study – Crumlin Road Gaol

Crumlin Road Gaol is Northern Ireland’s only remaining Victorian era prison. Having closed in 1996, it was reopened as a visitor attraction in 2012, designed to allow visitors to gain a unique and memorable insight into 150 years of history surrounding the daily lives and routines of both prisoners and staff.

Given the age of the tourist attraction, it contains a number of old buildings and structures, however, most of the site is accessible for wheelchair users and those with walking difficulties, and the Gaol also has manual wheelchairs for the use of guests. Ensuring as much of the site is accessible as possible, Crumlin Road Gaol installed a video outside the tunnel to show visitors what is beyond the steps, as this is the only area not accessible via wheelchair.

Ensuring accessibility for all, including deaf and hard of hearing customers, further investment was made in 2023 where Crumlin Road Gaol launched video guides in available in British Sign Language and text as well as audio guides which are all available free of charge. Also launched in 2023, the Gaol now provides audio guides in German, French, Spanish and Mandarin for nonEnglish speaking visitors to help all navigate their way around the 13-acre site.

There are four sets of accessible toilet facilities at various locations within the Gaol including the Basement level, Governors Corridor, Gate Lodge and Cuffs Bar and Grill. Crumlin Road Gaol is happy to offer Carers free entry for the Self-Guided Crumlin Road Gaol Experience, this is on a 1-1 basis, and an online booking platform will soon be available in co-operation with Nimbus disability. Assistance dogs are also allowed into the main area of the Gaol and where fresh drinking water will be made available.

SONI – Helping To Accelerate The Transition To Greener Energy

The UK’s Electricity Networks Commissioner, Nick Winser CBE, was in Belfast recently to speak to a business audience at an NI Chamber of Commerce & Industry seminar held at BT Tower. His message was around the acceleration of the UK and NI’s transition to renewable energy and, ultimately, net zero. Business Eye’s Richard Buckley caught up with Nick Winser and the Chief Executive of SONI, Alan Campbell, to talk about where Northern Ireland stands as a region and what the future holds.

“Accelerating the journey to cleaner energy is good for everyone,” says Nick Winser. “It’s good for customers and a good system will also be cheaper for customers. So let’s accelerate, let’s get it done. But we need to carry the public with us. That’s important.”

Nick Winser’s recent report for the Westminster government was around one of the key challenges – how to build the grid to cope with different types of energy. The legacy system was predicated on fossil fuel use, with inland power stations burning coal or gas.

“Renewables might be cheaper, but they’re sourced a lot further from the centres of population. Offshore wind, for example. So we have to move increasing amounts of power from more remote locations.

“At the same time, we have a transition in how business and homes are using electricity. We’re

predicting an increasing roll-out of heat pumps and electric heating over the coming years and we’re expecting surface transport to be dominated by electric vehicles.”

He agrees that the current targets are ambitious. Northern Ireland is supposed to hit 80% renewable usage by 2030 while the UK is targeted to go fully renewable five years later. “I think we need targets to drive us forward. Bear in mind that we’ve seen extraordinary progress at a faster pace than we ever would have imagined on things like offshore wind and electric cars.

“The cost of offshore wind power has dropped to a quarter of what it was a decade ago. The cost of solar has dropped to a tenth of what it was. Electric cars that could manage 20 miles weren’t that far back in history. It’s amazing what we can do fast as we align the vision with what’s needed to deliver it.”

He doesn’t agree that Northern Ireland lags behind the rest of the UK. “Northern Ireland isn’t fundamentally different. Clearly, this region has no nuclear power so the focus will be on wind and solar, both of which are cheaper than traditional fossil fuels. But the transition to electric transport will be the same, and domestic heating will also have to change away from fossil fuels.

“Both the UK and NI will need to invest in new technology and grid infrastructure such as batteries

Nick Winser, UK Electricity Networks Commissioner.

Eye on Energy

and more solar PV around the country, but the challenges are much the same from an engineering perspective,” he says.

“There is always going to be a bit of a bump in capital expenditure.

For example, a wind turbine is expensive to build but once it’s running, with the wind being a free fuel means they are much less expensive to operate. Heat pumps are expensive investments for property owners but once they’re operating, they’re incredibly efficient. There is a significant investment required but it is ultimately money well spent.

“The industry is really serious about committing to acceleration. A lot of people in this business really care about what we can do for

the environment. Companies are anxious to move forward as quickly as possible but it’s a partnership. We all have to work together to get where we want to go.

The thing that will lock everyone together is the appreciation that it is good for everyone.”

SONI’s Alan Campbell points to the fact that Northern Ireland hit its 40% renewables target a year ahead of schedule.

“This is a bit more challenging. We’ve got less than six years to double the amount of installed renewable generation to meet the 80% target. In terms of the infrastructure, it means the biggest investment since electrification.

“We’ll need new overhead lines, new pylons, new underground cables, new sub stations. That doesn’t just mean investment, it means that we need community engagement and public buyin. There are some hearts and minds to be won over. Behind the scenes, we have to be able to run a power grid fuelled entirely by renewable energy, and no one is doing that anywhere in the world as things stand.

“We were leading, we’ve started to fall behind, now we need to accelerate to get where we want to go.”

However, Alan Campbell acknowledges the importance

of bringing consumers along on this journey. We are acutely aware that these vital upgrades to the grid are funded through consumers bills which is why SONI has a three-part process in place to ensure the voices of local communities are included in our plans. Making the transition allows us to pave the way to lower cost energy in the future and maintain the security of supply that consumers have come to expect.

“We have the indigenous sources. Northern Ireland has access to lots of wind energy, we even have sun at times. Going forward, we have to make sure that we have a source of energy for times when the wind isn’t blowing and effective long duration energy storage systems will be a game changer.”

He welcomes the return of the NI Executive and an Economy Minister who, he says, can look at a Renewables Support Scheme and help get the acceleration message out to the wider public.

Planning remains an issue for infrastructure organisations.

“The evidence of there for all to see,” says Alan Campbell. “To get permission for a new wind farm here can take three to four years. The same goes for other infrastructure projects. We need to resource the planning system and improve how we do things.

“But that’s just part of the picture. We’re really committed to doing what’s best for Northern Ireland, for its electricity consumers and for the environment.”

Nick Winser with SONI Chief Executive Alan Campbell.

Eye on News

First deal announced for £70m Investment Fund for Northern Ireland

The British Business Bank has announced the first deal from the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland after fund manager, Whiterock, facilitated a £100,000 loan to The Bucks Head Inn in Dundrum.

The £70million fund offers a range of commercial finance options including debt finance and equity investment to support businesses from all sectors in Northern Ireland and at different growth stages.

Whiterock manages the debt fund, offering loans of £25,000 up to £2million while Clarendon Fund Managers provide equity stakes in smaller businesses up to £5million.

Under new owners, Alex Greene and Bronagh McCormick, the popular Co Down restaurant, bar and guestrooms has undergone a major refurbishment ahead of its grand re-opening later this month.

Alex and Bronagh plan on building upon the excellent reputation of The

Bucks Head, refreshing its gastro pub food offering with a focus on local produce and seafood specialities.

It’s a homecoming for talented Dundrum chef, Alex Greene who began his career washing dishes and preparing vegetables in The Bucks Head. Alex went on to work in restaurants around the world including Michelin star establishments, most recently at Deanes EIPIC where he was Head Chef.

He also starred in two seasons of the Great British Menu and has appeared in the BBC series, B&B By The Sea.

At Deanes, Alex worked alongside his business partner, Bronagh, who was General Manager of the Deanes Restaurant Group for 13 years. Bronagh has a hospitality degree and

has spent her whole career working within the hospitality sector.

The Investment Fund for Northern Ireland loan is being utilised across a number of areas within the business, including the refurbishment of the premises, a new kitchen, an upgrade of three upstairs guestrooms, and the recruitment of staff. Bronagh said the timing was right for her and Alex to make the move to Dundrum.

She said: “The Bucks Head is somewhere which means a great deal to Alex and, as the previous owners were retiring, we felt the time was right to go into business together.

“Dating back to the eighteenth century, The Bucks Head is extremely well known and is thought of very highly, both locally and further afield – everyone we speak to seems to have a story about the place.

“We see The Bucks Head as having enormous potential. It is a venue which is full of charm and character, and we are really looking forward to getting started.

“The Investment Fund for Northern

Ireland loan has supported us in bringing our vision for The Bucks Head to life and driving the next stage of growth. We found the team at Whiterock very accommodating to work with and the process was straight-forward and efficient. We are delighted with how everything went so smoothly.”

British Business Bank Director, Nations and Regions Investment Funds, Mark Sterritt said:

“Alex Greene is a hugely talented chef who is passionate about sustainability and farm to fork produce while Bronagh McCormick is vastly experienced working at the very highest levels of the hospitality industry.

“I have no doubt they will build upon the already excellent reputation of The Bucks Head by serving outstanding local produce and transforming it into a real destination for foodies.

“It’s really pleasing to announce the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland’s first deal. Helping businesses with great potential on their growth journey is exactly what the fund is about, and I wish Alex and Bronagh all the best for their new venture.”

Whiterock Investment Director Una Warnock said:

“At Whiterock we are delighted to be working in partnership with Alex and Bronagh as they embark on this exciting opportunity at the renowned The Bucks Head in Dundrum.

“As a team they have an impressive blend of skills, experience and passion which will attract custom from locals and tourists alike, and we look forward to seeing the business flourish over the next number of years.

“This is a fantastic first deal for Whiterock as one of the fund managers for the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland, and we are excited about the strong pipeline of enquiries and the opportunity to support a wide variety of businesses throughout Northern Ireland.”

British Business Bank Director, Nations and Regions Investment Funds, Mark Sterritt with Whiterock Investment Director Una Warnock, pictured with The Bucks Head owners Alex Greene and Bronagh McCormick.

Eye on News

STEAM STUDIO SET TO INSPIRE NI’S YOUNG TECH TALENT OF THE FUTURE

Anew STEAM-focused workshop has been launched by Liberty IT and National Museums NI to inspire young people to develop their tech skills.

STEAM Studio powered by Liberty IT in partnership with National Museums NI, is a new, exciting collaborative workspace at the Ulster Museum, designed to connect coding and technology with the museum experience.

As part of the free programme, which includes complimentary return transport for schools availing of the workshop, students in Years 8 - 10 will be upskilled in coding that will enable them to design and create their own arcade game inspired by the museum’s applied art collection.

The 4-hour interactive workshop uses a school and C2K approved coding platform which means students and teachers will be able to continue their learning and work in school after the visit.

Tony Marron, Managing Director of Liberty IT said: “We are absolutely

delighted to unveil the STEAM Studio at the Ulster Museum which we have designed and developed in partnership with National Museums NI and the Nerve Centre. This is a programme that combines science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics to encourage creativity, problem-solving and collaboration. It was important to us that we created something that addressed the challenges of STEAM provision in education and the underrepresentation we’re still seeing across tech.

As a business, we have some of the world’s best engineers and we are delighted that our teams will be part of this programme. Liberty IT employees will have the opportunity to impart their knowledge and experience, to educate and inspire Northern Ireland’s young tech talent of the future by volunteering to be a STEAM Studio ambassador.”

Louise Rice, Education Manager of National Museums NI said: “This is an exciting new workshop to add to our

education programme at the museum and for the first time we are fusing technology and art to create a really interactive experience. We carried out a pilot scheme and tested the workshop with 170 students from a range of schools and the feedback was excellent, so we look forward to welcoming lots

Musgrave MarketPlace, Ireland’s leading wholesale supplier to foodservice, retail and SME businesses, has announced that since 2016 it has donated over 1.5 million meals to 200 local charities and community groups in Ireland through its partnership with FoodCloud. This donation equates to over 630 tonnes of food and a saving of €1.89 million to Irish charities.

FoodCloud is a social enterprise that connects businesses with surplus food to charities in their local communities, allowing them to donate food easily and directly to those that need it.

Through its food donations, which may have otherwise been wasted, Musgrave MarketPlace has prevented over 2000 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions from entering the earth’s atmosphere

and damaging the environment.

Desi Derby, Marketing Director at Musgrave MarketPlace said:

“At Musgrave MarketPlace, we are committed to doing everything possible to build a more sustainable future and our partnership with FoodCloud is a key focus for the business. We are extremely proud that our donations have benefitted over 200 amazing charities all over Ireland and provide support to those most vulnerable in our communities.” 75,000 tonnes of food are wasted in Retail and Distribution in Ireland every year, which equates to 10% of Ireland’s total food waste. FoodCloud helps rescue food surplus and redistribute it among charities and community groups across Ireland.

Sami Seretan, Manager, Feed Dublin said:

“Feed Dublin helps bridge the gap for individuals and families that struggle between meeting pressing financial needs and providing nutritious food

more pupils to enjoy it. We are thrilled that the free workshop is now live and available for secondary schools across Northern Ireland to book.”

For further information, or to make a booking (allocated on a first come basis) go to www.ulstermuseum.org/steam-studio

for themselves and their families. The support we receive from Musgrave MarketPlace and FoodCloud helps us to achieve this goal. We look forward to a continued partnership with Musgrave MarketPlace and FoodCloud for many years to come.”

Adrian Young, Head of Irish Partnerships, FoodCloud added:

“FoodCloud is extremely grateful for the ongoing support and dedication from all in Musgrave MarketPlace to reduce food waste and to ensure that perfectly good food makes its way to those who need it. Reaching the milestone of 1.5 million meals equivalent donated to community organisations across Ireland since 2016, Musgrave MarketPlace can be assured they are making a very real difference to the lives of many people at a time when they need it most.

FoodCloud is delighted to work with Musgrave MarketPlace and we look forward to continuing and developing our relationship long into the future.”

Sami Seretan, Manager, Feed Dublin; Adrian Young, Head of Irish Partnerships, FoodCloud and Desi Derby, Marketing Director at Musgrave MarketPlace

Lola Shannon (age 12) from Ashfield Girls’ High School joined Louise Rice, Education Manager of National Museums NI and Tony Marron, Managing Director of Liberty IT at the launch of a new STEAM-focused workshop to inspire young people to develop their tech skills.

Eye on News

Top Belfast communications agency MCE acquired by Cavendish

Belfast corporate communications and public affairs agency MCE has announced today that it has become part of award-winning communications consultancy Cavendish.

Founded by Paul McErlean in 2006, MCE is a full-service agency with offices in Belfast and Dublin which specialises in corporate affairs, strategic communications and government affairs and counts many of Northern Ireland’s leading brands in a range of sectors amongst its clients.

McErlean will join Cavendish as Managing Director for Ireland, with the other MCE Board Directors - Symon Ross, Ben Mallon, Dawn Hesketh Guilfoyle

and Louise De’ath - also joining the company in senior roles.

Named PRCA’s Large Consultancy of the Year and ranked PR Week’s top public affairs consultancy for the past two years, Cavendish has more than 100 consultants across its London headquarters and seven regional offices and specialises in government affairs, corporate communications and planning communications.

This significant move solidifies Cavendish’s commitment to providing exceptional services to clients

operating in both the UK and EU markets, marking a pivotal step in their expansion. The integration of MCE, which significantly broadens the company’s geographic reach, deepens service offerings, and strengthens its position as a leading player in the UK corporate communications landscape.

Paul McErlean, Managing Director at MCE, said:

“Joining forces with Cavendish marks an exciting new chapter for MCE. I am thrilled about the opportunities this collaboration brings, allowing us to contribute our unique strengths to a wider audience and offering clients enhanced services and resources as well as broadening opportunities for our staff team in joining one of the UK’s leading agencies.

“Having recently established a base

in Dublin, our intention is to grow the Cavendish footprint even further on the island in the months to come while continuing to provide valueadded services to our existing clients. I am very grateful to everybody who has contributed to the MCE journey and am really looking forward to building the Cavendish business in Ireland, north and south.

“We look forward to continuing to set high standards in our industry by navigating the evolving communications landscape with innovation and excellence.”

Carl Daruvalla, CEO at Cavendish Consulting, said:

“This acquisition reaffirms our dedication to accelerate our evolution into a consultancy ready to service clients in an increasingly global, social, and hybrid world. Our expanded presence enables us to advise on the changing political landscapes in Belfast and Dublin, support growth opportunities in Northern Ireland’s thriving economy, and offer comprehensive all-Ireland services to reflect the growth in cross-border infrastructure and investment.

“As we bring MCE into Cavendish, we are poised to unlock new opportunities, deepen our impact, and reinforce our position as the go-to partner for strategic communications across the UK, EU and Ireland markets.”

Pictured in Belfast are Paul McErlean, founder of MCE, and Carl Daruvalla, CEO of Cavendish.

onEnergy & Environment

In association with

Eye on Energy & Environment

Planet, People, Place: the three pillars of net positive

Judy McElroy, Sustainability and Environment Manager at NIE Networks

Sustainability can be understood simply as “enough for all forever”. At NIE Networks, our people are proud to lead the transition to reliable and sustainable energy for all. The stakes are high and the work is complex, but thinking in terms of the 3Ps – Planet, People, Place - offers a clear way to relate our efforts to the world around us.

The first of the 3Ps is planet and the need to operate within planetary limits is going to shape the future of businesses globally. NIE Networks has been working towards this for years and is approaching a pivotal milestone: our next price

control period and the launch of the associated RP7 Business Plan.

RP7 will be totally different from previous business plans because, for the first time, it has been written in consideration of emissions reductions targets that are

bound in legislation. We will now deliver under the framework provided by the Energy Strategy for Northern Ireland and the Climate Change Act’s legal commitment to net zero emissions by 2050. This means that the upcoming

price control period is loaded with opportunities to future proof our business as well as the lives and livelihoods of our 910,000 customers.

47% of the electricity we use in Northern Ireland currently comes from renewables. While

Judy McElroy with NIE Networks’ Senior Management Team at TCV Tree Nursery in Cultra Preparing for Tree Planting Season 2023-24.

Eye on Energy & Environment

that is positive for Northern Ireland PLC, it is only part of the way towards our 80% target for 2030. RP7’s implementation will start in 2025 and see an increase in our networks’ capacity to transport electricity generated from renewable sources.

This increase in capacity will facilitate an increase in the amount of low carbon technologies, like heat pumps and electric vehicles (EVs), that can be connected to the electricity network. There is an opportunity here to address dependence on fossil fuels and provide a buffer from the volatile prices that they bring.

Delivering for the planet also means we must manage resource consumption. One of the actions at the heart of the People, Planet, Place approach is a review of our supply chain strategy. We must also ensure that we reduce our overall materials consumption so we’re pioneering ways to refurbish, reuse and prolong the lifespan of what we already have.

That brings us to the second of the three Ps – People. We have a big, and growing focus on the talent that will run the networks of the future. Our

decarbonisation journey will create a total of around 1000 new jobs in NIE Networks, and up to 500 in partner organisations, by 2030.

We are continuing to build a highly skilled workforce fit for the challenges ahead, including through our award-winning Apprenticeship Academy. We have a strong track record on retention and development with 40% of our senior management team having started here as apprentices. We really value that and constantly look at how to provide a better workplace. In practice this means, amongst other things, internal working groups on diversity and inclusion, and offering any number of training and professional development opportunities.

This people focus goes beyond our own staff. We work closely with our contractors on wellbeing and safety through our Safer Together programme.

We also uphold a zero tolerance approach on modern slavery and a commitment to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

At NIE Networks, we know that our best practice can inspire

and empower our customers and suppliers to follow suit. For example, we are embarking on a pilot project for smart electric vehicle charging. This involves an app that initiates charging at the most efficient times. We’ve seen great interest from EV drivers who want to get on board with that. And earlier this year we saw the launch of the first public high-power charging hub in Northern Ireland at Toome Motorway Service Station. These kinds of developments represent the beginnings of a new energy ecosystem. When people get on board in the interests of the planet we can make better Places, which brings us to the last of the 3Ps. A successful energy transition requires action on biodiversity, air, water and soil for healthy communities. Rolling out low carbon technologies goes a long way towards this by improving air quality in towns. On top of that electric vehicles, be they cars or buses, reduce noise pollution for happier commutes.

For a holistic approach, we take proactive steps like maintaining our Wildlife Aware Accreditation from Ulster Wildlife. Together

we developed a bespoke Wildlife Aware Guide and an associated training programme. This means our staff are trained to identify and protect wildlife they come into contact with daily, and the lesser spotted ones too.

In the period between November 2023 and March 2024, we planted 10,000 native trees along with The Conservation Volunteers (TCV). We won’t stop there though and will go on to plant a further 14,000 between November 2024 and March 2025 while also actively participating in Belfast City Council’s Million Trees Project.

We understand that these are the issues that matter to people: climate, resource use, biodiversity, the cost of energy, energy security, responsible business, and quality jobs.

The energy transition will only be a success if we manage all things in the balance. Our Planet, People, Places approach gives all these aspects the focus they need to ensure we do have enough for all forever and truly deliver on sustainability.

Judy McElroy the Women in Business awards’ winner of ‘Best Green Business – Corporate’.

Eye on Energy & Environment

Climate Change & The Problem Of Time

Global warming could help the world’s timekeepers by delaying the need for history’s first “negative leap second” by three years, a study has suggested.

For most of history, time was measured by the rotation of the Earth. However in 1967, atomic clocks were embracedwhich use the frequency of atoms as their tick-tock - ushering in a more precise era of timekeeping.

But sailors, who still relied on the Sun and stars for navigation, and others wanted to retain the connection between Earth’s rotation and time.

There was a problem. Earth is an unreliable clock and had long been rotating slightly slower than atomic time, meaning the two measurements were out of sync.

So a compromise was struck.

Whenever the difference between the two measurements approached 0.9 of a second, a “leap second” was added to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), the internationally agreed standard by which the world sets its clocks.

Though most people likely have not noticed, 27 leap seconds have been added to UTC since 1972, the last coming in 2016.

But in recent years a new problem has emerged that few saw coming: Earth’s rotation has been speeding up, overtaking atomic time.

This means that to bring the two measurements in sync, timekeepers may have to introduce the first ever negative leap second.

Experts fear that introducing this - a minute with only 59 seconds - into standard time could cause havoc on computer systems across the world.

An unpredictable planet

“This has never happened before, and poses a major challenge to making sure that all parts of the global timing infrastructure show the same time,” said Duncan Agnew, a researcher at the University of California, San Diego.

“Many computer programs for leap seconds assume they are all positive, so these would have to be rewritten,” he told AFP.

Partly using satellite data, Mr Agnew looked at the rate of the Earth’s rotation and the effect of its slowing core for the new study published in the journal Nature.

He determined that if not for climate change, a negative leap second might have needed to be added to UTC as soon as 2026.

But starting from 1990, melting ice in Greenland and Antarctica has slowed down the Earth’s rotation, the study said. This delayed the need for a negative leap second until at least 2029, it added.

“When the ice melts, the water spreads out over the whole ocean; this increases the moment of inertia, which slows the Earth down,” Mr Agnew said.

If the need for an “unprecedented” negative leap second was delayed, that would be “welcome news indeed”, Patrizia Tavella, the head of the International Bureau of Weights and Measures, which is responsible for UTC, commented in Nature.

Demetrios Matsakis, former chief scientist for time services at the US Naval Observatory who was not involved in the research, told AFP that he was sceptical of Mr Agnew’s analysis.

He said that “Earth is too unpredictable to be sure” if a negative leap second would be needed any time soon.

Second nature

But all agreed that a negative leap second would be a hop into the unknown.

“It would not bring about the downfall of civilisation, and given enough publicity some problems could be avoided,” Mr Matsakis said.

“But I would not recommend being in an airplane at that time.”

Even positive leap seconds have previously caused problems for systems that require precise timekeeping.

That is partly why the world’s timekeepers agreed in 2022 to scrap the leap second by 2035.

From that year, the plan is to allow the difference between atomic time and the Earth’s rotation to grow up to a minute.

A subsequent leap minute to bring them into sync is not expected to be needed in the next century.

“A negative leap minute is very, very unlikely,” Mr Agnew said.

He hopes his research will prompt the world’s timekeepers to consider dropping the leap second sooner than 2035, a sentiment echoed by Ms Tavella and Mr Matsakis.

Eye on Energy & Environment

It could well be a taste of things to come on the legal front. A group of older Swiss women have won the first ever climate case victory in the European Court of Human Rights.

The women, mostly in their 70s, said that their age and gender made them particularly vulnerable to the effects of heatwaves linked to climate change.

The court said Switzerland’s efforts to meet its emission reduction targets had been woefully inadequate.

It is the first time the powerful court has ruled on global warming.

Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg joined activists celebrating at the court in Strasbourg on Tuesday.

“We still can’t really believe it. We keep asking our lawyers, ‘is that right?’ Rosemarie Wydler-Walti, one of the leaders of the Swiss women, told Reuters news agency. “And they tell

us it’s the most you could have had. The biggest victory possible.”

“This is only the beginning of climate litigation,” said Ms Thunberg. “This means that we have to fight even more, since this is only the beginning. Because in a climate emergency, everything is at stake.”

The ruling is binding and can trickle down to influence the law in 46 countries in Europe including the UK.

The Court ruled that Switzerland had “failed to comply with its duties under the Convention concerning climate change” and that it had violated the right to respect for private and family life.

It also found that “there had been critical gaps” in the country’s policies to tackle climate change including failing to quantify reductions in greenhouse gases - those gases that warm Earth’s atmosphere when we burn fossil fuels like oil, coal and gas.

The Swiss women, called

KlimaSeniorinnen or Senior Women for Climate Protection, argued that they cannot leave their homes and suffer health attacks during heatwaves in Switzerland.

Recent data showed that last month (March) was the warmest on record, meaning the temperature records have been broken ten months in a row.

More than 2,000 women are in the KlimaSeniorinnen group. They launched the case nine years ago, calling for better protection of women’s health in relation to climate change.

Swiss President Viola Amherd told a news conference that she needed to read the judgement in detail before commenting, according to Reuters news agency.

She said: “Sustainability is very important to Switzerland, biodiversity is very important to Switzerland, the net zero target is very important to Switzerland.”

The court dismissed two other cases

brought by six Portuguese young people and a former French mayor. Both argued that European governments had failed to tackle climate change quickly enough, violating their rights.

Estelle Dehon KC, a barrister at Cornerstone Barristers in the UK, said “the judgement deals with difficult issues that also vex the UK courts in a way that may be persuasive.”

“It comprehensively dismisses the argument that courts cannot rule on climate legal obligations because climate change is a global phenomenon or because action by one state is just a ‘drop in the ocean’,” she told BBC News.

Governments globally have signed up to drastically reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. But scientists and activists say that progress is too slow and the world is not on track to meet the crucial target of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions On A Downward Track Climate Change Court Case Has Alarm Bells Ringing

Greenhouse gas emissions from Irish power generation and industrial companies covered by the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) decreased by 17% or 2.4 million tonnes last year, according to a new report from the European Commission and Environmental Protection Agency. The greatest reduction was seen in electricity generation where emissions fell by nearly 24%. This was due to a reduction in the use of coal generation and increased use of wind and solar powered electricity. There was also greater use of imported electricity. Emissions from electricity generated outside Ireland are not included in this country’s emissions figures.

Reacting to the decrease, EPA Director General Laura Burke said decarbonisation of power generation

must continue to be prioritised.

“While Ireland is increasingly moving away from coal generation, we still rely heavily on fossil fuels to meet our electricity demand.

“Ireland must continue to put a priority on renewable generation infrastructure to deliver grid decarbonisation,” said Ms Burke.

Industrial emissions decreased by just over 6% in 2023 compared with 2022. Within this sector the cement industry recorded a 6.2% decrease, mainly due to a drop in production.

Emissions from the food and drink sector dropped more than 3%, while emissions from bulk manufacturing of pharmaceuticals decreased by more than 6%.

However emission from the aviation sector continued to grow, up 9% on 2022, reflecting

ongoing growth in the sector.

Aviation emissions in 2023 amounted to over 11 million tonnes, which is still lower than the pre-pandemic levels of 12.8 million tonnes.

The overall reduction in the Irish ETS sector of 17% equates to more than 2.4 million tonnes and brought emissions from the sector down to 12.19 million tonnes of CO2. This compares with a decrease of approximately 15.5% across Europe, according to data published by the EU Commission.

109 major industrial and electricity generation sites in Ireland are covered by the EU Emission trading system and are required to report their emissions to the EPA every year by 31 March.

Emissions from other domestic sectors such as agriculture and transport are not covered under the EU Emissions Trading System.

Eye on Energy & Environment

World’s First Year-Long Breach Of 1.5°C Warming Limit

For the first time, global warming has exceeded 1.5°C across an entire year, according to the EU’s climate service.

World leaders promised in 2015 to try to limit the longterm temperature rise to 1.5°C, which is seen as crucial to help avoid the most damaging impacts.

This first year-long breach doesn’t break that landmark Paris agreement, but it does bring the world closer to doing so in the long-term.

Urgent action to cut carbon emissions can still slow warming, scientists say.

“This far exceeds anything that is acceptable,” Prof Sir Bob Watson, a former chair of the UN’s climate body, told the BBC Radio 4’s Today Programme.

“Look what’s happened this year with only 1.5°C - we’ve seen floods, we’ve seen droughts, we’ve seen heatwaves and wildfires all over the world.”

The period from February 2023 to January 2024 reached 1.52°C of warming, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service.

The following graph shows how that compares with previous years.

The latest climate warning comes amid news that the Labour Party is ditching its policy of spending £28bn a year on its green investment plan in a major U-turn. The Conservatives also pushed back on some key targets in September

This means the UK’s two main parties have scaled back the type of pledges that many climate scientists say are needed globally if the worst impacts of warming are to be avoided.

The world’s sea surface is also at its highest ever recorded average temperature - yet another sign of the widespread nature of climate records. As the chart below shows, it’s particularly notable given that ocean temperatures don’t normally peak for another month or so.

Science groups differ slightly on precisely how much temperatures have increased, but all agree that the world is in by far its warmest period since modern records began - and likely for much longer.

Limiting long-term warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels - before humans started burning large amounts of fossil fuels - has become a key symbol of international efforts to tackle climate change.

A landmark UN report in 2018 said that the risks from climate changesuch as intense heatwaves, rising sealevels and loss of wildlife - were much higher at 2°C of warming than at 1.5°C.

The long-term warming trend is unquestionably being driven by human activities - mainly from burning fossil fuels, which releases planet-warming gases like carbon dioxide. This is also responsible for the vast majority of the warmth over the past year.

In recent months, a natural climatewarming phenomenon known as El Niño has also given air temperatures an extra boost, although it would

typically only do so by about 0.2°C.

Global average air temperatures began exceeding 1.5°C of warming on an almost daily basis in the second half of 2023, when El Niño began kicking in, and this has continued into 2024. This is shown where the red line is above the dashed line in the graph below.

An end to El Niño conditions is expected in a few months, which could allow global temperatures to temporarily stabilise, and then fall slightly, probably back below the 1.5°C threshold.

But while human activities keep adding to the levels of warming gases in the atmosphere, temperatures will ultimately continue rising in the decades ahead.

At the current rate of emissions, the Paris goal of limiting warming to 1.5C as a long-term averagerather than a single year - could be crossed within the next decade.

Researchers say it wouldn’t mark a cliff edge beyond which climate change will spin out of control.

The impacts of climate change would continue to accelerate, however with every little increase in warming - something that the At the current rate of emissions, the Paris goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C as a long-term average - rather than a single year - could be crossed.

This would be a hugely symbolic milestone, but researchers say it

wouldn’t mark a cliff edge beyond which climate change will spin out of control.

These are thresholds within the climate system which, if crossed, could lead to rapid and potentially irreversible changes.

For example, if the Greenland and West Antarctic Ice Sheets passed a tipping point, their potentially runaway collapse could cause catastrophic rises to global sea-levels over the centuries that followed.

But researchers are keen to emphasise that humans can still make a difference to the world’s warming trajectory.

The world has made some progress with green technologies like renewables and electric vehicles booming in many parts of the world.

This has meant some of the very worst case scenarios of 4C warming or more this century - thought possible a decade ago - are now considered much less likely.

And perhaps most encouragingly of all, it’s still thought that the world will more or less stop warming once net zero carbon emissions are reached. Effectively halving emissions this decade is seen as particularly crucial.

“That means we can ultimately control how much warming the world experiences, based on our choices as a society, and as a planet,” says Zeke Hausfather, a climate scientist at US group Berkeley Earth.

“Doom is not inevitable.”

Eye on Energy & Environment

Taking Energy Into Space

A company hoping to launch the first solar farm into space has passed a critical milestone with a prototype on Earth, and a Northern Irelandbased team has played a central role.

Oxfordshire-based Space Solar plans to power more than a million homes by the 2030s with mile-wide complex of mirrors and solar panels orbiting 22,000 miles above the planet.

But its super-efficient design for harvesting constant sunlight - called CASSIOPeiA - requires the system to rotate towards the sun, whatever its position, while still sending power to a fixed receiver on the ground.

That’s now been shown to work for the first time by a team at Queen’s University in Belfast, with a wireless beam successfully “steered” across a lab to turn on a light.

Martin Soltau, the company’s founder, told Sky News in an exclusive interview: “This is a world first. You can get constant energy all the time.

“This is really going to have a substantial impact on our future energy systems.”

Solar panels capture 13 times more energy in space than they do on the ground because the light intensity is higher and there’s no atmosphere, clouds or night.

Even though some energy would be

lost by the time it is beamed back to Earth and connected to the electricity grid, it would still far outstrip solar generation on the ground.

But it’s the production of power around the clock that makes spacebased solar energy so attractive for providing a “baseload” to back up ground-based renewables.

Currently, nuclear energy and gas turbines provide the baseload for the grid but produce radioactive waste or carbon dioxide respectively.

“This is this is why the government is so excited by the prospect of spacebased solar power,” said Mr Soltau.

“Not only is it very, capable in that it’s helping to make the whole energy system work more effectively.

“But the cost (of electricity) is about quarter of that from nuclear.”

Until recently any thought of building a 2,000-tonne solar power station in space has been dismissed as science fiction.

But Mr Soltau revealed the company is in talks with SpaceX about using Starship, the most powerful rocket ever built.

An estimated 68 launches would

be needed to carry a kit of parts that would then be assembled by robots into a power station in orbit.

The rocket is also expected to dramatically reduce the cost of taking anything into orbit to as little as 1% of what it did just 20 years ago.

“It’s a complete game changer,” said Mr Soltau. “We’ll be able to do things in space that just weren’t feasible even a decade ago.”

One potential challenge will be reassuring the public that the microwave beam bringing power back to Earth is harmless.

Mr Soltau said it has just a quarter of the energy of the midday sun at the equator and would be “locked on” to a receiving station.

“Safety goes to the heart of this design,” he said.

“These receiving antennas would be well away from any area of the population, most probably offshore.

“We need to demonstrate (safety) and take the public with us, but we have a really clear route to do that.”

Dr Jovana Radulovic, an independent energy expert based at the University of Portsmouth, believes space based

solar power will play a big part in meeting future electricity needs.

But more evidence is needed to back claims that it has a low carbon footprint despite multiple rocket launches.

“The carbon emissions are equivalent to that of renewables,” she said. “But that doesn’t take into account potential pollution effects in the upper atmosphere.

“I think if we get more clarity on that and we can genuinely prove that space-based solar power is cleaner than some of the current alternatives, that would definitely make it more popular.”

China and Japan, as well as the European Space Agency and several companies in the US are all working to make space-based solar a reality.

In the UK the government, university researchers and companies including EDF and the National Grid have formed the Space Energy Initiative to accelerate plans to put a solar power station in orbit.

EMILY STRUCTURALDESIGNENGINEER

Women in Business Announce return of All-Island Female Entrepreneurs Conference

Women in Business has announced the return of its highly anticipated All-Island Female Entrepreneurs Conference, taking place on the 6th June 2024 in The Europa Hotel, Belfast.

The only all-island conference on the entrepreneurial scene is set to be the cornerstone of inspiration, empowerment, and connection for over 300 women-led business owners across the island.

Themed around ‘Grit and Growth’, this year’s conference hosted by entrepreneur and founder of the Digg Podcast Caroline O’Neill, will spotlight the remarkable journeys of leading female founders who have defied odds, showcased unwavering perseverance and resilience in the face of business challenges.

The event will feature engaging panel sessions, breakout masterclasses, and keynote address from Laura Bonner, CEO and Founder of The Muff Liquor Company, who’s investors and supporters include actor Russell Crowe, comedian Jimmy Carr, and singer Ed Sheeran. Laura will share the grit and growth of her business journey, spanning from Inishowen, Donegal to Australia, with plans for expansion into the USA.

Commenting Lorraine Acheson Managing Director Women in Business said: “I am delighted that the conference is back and that we have another incredible line up of speakers and entrepreneurs in the room.

Women in Business want to encourage female entrepreneurs from all over this Island to grow and expand their businesses, to challenge themselves and connect with others and are looking forward to welcoming business founders, innovators and influencers to the conference in June.”

The full conference agenda promises a diverse range of topics catered to the evolving needs of female entrepreneurs. From innovative export strategies to sustainable growth practices, attendees can expect a comprehensive programme

aimed at enhancing their business acumen and personal growth.

The event will feature an on-the-day pitching competition, sponsored by IntertradeIreland where attendees will witness live pitches from new and aspiring entrepreneurs, and have the power to crown the best pitch. The winners of the TechStart Female Founders Grant Competition in partnership with Women in Business, will also be announced at the conference.

Laura Bonner, CEO of The Muff Liqueur Company

Eye on News

Version 1 Wins National Highways Contract

Belfast-based Version 1 has been chosen by National Highways as a strategic long-term partner for managed services and collaboration across its infrastructure and platforms in a £47.5m contract award. The announcement builds on an existing six-year partnership with National Highways.

National Highways needed a long-term strategic cloud partner to support the delivery of its sustainable transformation journey and in turn facilitate unprecedented enhancements to public safety–reducing accidents and saving lives.

Version 1’s proven experience in agile and modern ways of working, particularly in the public sector demonstrated close alignment to the vision and requirements of National Highways.

The company has already provided cross-cloud adoption, implementation

and support services for National Highways for six years, leveraging a team of over 500 cloud specialists and extensive expert accreditations and experience across all cloud platforms.

“We were looking for a longterm partner to work with us in a modern, agile DevSecOps approach and having the skills we need to deliver our innovative strategy to meet both current and future organisational skills,” said Craig Bromage, Head of Infrastructure and Platforms at National Highways.

“Version 1 has already helped us make significant progress in

transforming and transitioning legacy infrastructure to our cloud offering. We are very excited to be moving into the next phase, expanding the cloud capability and modernising our ways of working as we continue to deliver and improve our service to road users, making journeys better and safer.”

“We are extremely excited to build on our partnership with National Highways and honoured to be awarded this new contract that will see us define, deliver and support National Highways in the delivery of its cloud strategic outcomes,” said Guy Hodges,

Director of Transport at Version 1.

“The National Highways modern ways of working and automation of platform technologies stand it apart from other organisations. The clarity of direction and defined ways of working that it has within its infrastructure and platform teams are beyond exceptional. This should be applauded, and Version 1 is delighted to be part of this partnership for the next seven years.”

The contract term is five years including an enabler to extend for two years.

Eye on News

SPAR NI puts local food and producers at the heart of Balmoral Show

SPAR NI will once again return to Balmoral Show to put their locally produced products at the heart of their activity from 15th – 18th May.

Visitors will be able to sample the delights of SPAR’s locally sourced ranges, from savory snacks to sweet desserts and meet their award-winning chef, Carl Johannesson. Over the past few years, Carl’s developed hundreds of recipes at SPAR’s production kitchen in Randalstown, many of which now make up SPAR’s exclusive brand, The Kitchen, which can be found in stores across Northern Ireland.

It is the 13th year SPAR NI has supported Balmoral Show as Platinum Sponsor, and as well as delivering plenty of tasty treats for visitors to sample, the team will once again be offering SPAR Big Reds, their iconic red Stetsons, to show-goers for a donation towards Marie Curie and Cancer Fund for Children. Last year, throughout four days, visitors donated an incredible £25,763.09, which was divided between both charities.

Bronagh Luke, Head of Corporate Marketing at Henderson Group said; “We’re looking forward to our return to Balmoral Show, marking our 13th year as Platinum sponsor in our usual engaging, tasty and exciting way! We will have our selfie station set up for visitors to get an iconic Stetson selfie with their Big Reds, which is such a fantastic way to support our brilliant charity partners.

“For us, Balmoral Show is all about connecting our shoppers with the local suppliers and farmers who are producing the ingredients to help us create the delicious and value-driven own brands we are creating for our stores. Over 75% of our fresh food is sourced locally

from over 180 local suppliers, with many of those suppliers helping us produce our SPAR Enjoy Local range. Chef Carl Johannesson works alongside our suppliers to select the finest ingredients to create family favourites that are available under The Kitchen brand. Both ranges are a fantastic offering for our retailers to bring to their local shoppers at value prices, all year round.”

Visitors to the SPAR NI marquee at the Balmoral Show this year can sample the likes of The Kitchen beef stew, sweet potato curry and chilli chicken pasta, alongside The Kitchen’s range of desserts. Chef Carl will also be creating dishes from scratch to give visitors plenty of meal inspiration for tonight’s tea.

SPAR Enjoy Local cocktail sausages and sizzle steaks will also be available for sampling, together with the brand’s summer salads and traybakes, all produced by local producers including K&G McAtamney, Avondale and Graham’s Bakery.

Bronagh concluded; “Balmoral Show is a hugely important four days for our entire team, showcasing all that SPAR NI stores across Northern Ireland bring to their local communities, from everyday essentials to the highest quality fresh foods from our outstanding local suppliers. We are able to drive support for our charity partners, while also introducing visitors to our other corporate partners including the SSE Arena, with W5 providing family fun for our marquee visitors each year.

“It is all about building that awareness with visitors,

ensuring they support their local SPAR retailers, with over 500 independently operated and company owned SPAR, EUROSPAR and ViVO stores across Northern Ireland with an abundance of fresh foods, locally sourced and available at value prices.”

Visitors and exhibitors will also be able to pick up their essentials

from the on-site SPAR store where show-goers can grab a Barista Bar coffee, a sandwich, salad or wrap from the locally made Delish range, or any other everyday essential they’d expect to find in their local SPAR store.

For more, visit spar-ni.co.uk

Chef Carl Johannesson is pictured with Darcey Wilson from Henderson Group ahead of the 2024 Balmoral Show, where SPAR NI will be sampling their ‘The Kitchen’ range and raising money for Marie Curie and Cancer Fund for Children with SPAR’s iconic Big Red Stetsons.

Eye on News

GetSetGo Launches New Approach To Insurance

Coleraine-based GetSetGo, the trailblazing car insurance brand by MCL InsureTech Ltd, has introduced a brand refreshment, unveiling a host of innovations aimed at revolutionising the insurance landscape in the process.

The refinement of the brand brings forth a rejuvenated website and refreshed social assets, bolstered by the presence of renowned Irish rugby star, Rob Kearney, as its new brand ambassador.

But, at the core of GetSetGo’s recent evolution is a wave of rewards that promises to transform the way policyholders engage with their car insurance. This move makes it Ireland’s first and only insurance company to offer rewards and earn credit.

Meanwhile the appointment of Rob Kearney, a prominent figure in the world of rugby, symbolises the brand’s transformational “game changing” ethos.

Available online only, GetSetGo can be seamlessly purchased at the tap of a button, offering unparalleled convenience through handheld

devices or online platforms. In the unfortunate event of an accident, customers can rely on the company’s 24/7 claims service for peace of mind.

It delivers groundbreaking services and products spanning the car insurance sector and now, with its recent innovations, it will offer its customers a robust rewards system which emphasises a reciprocal relationship that benefits customers during these financially challenging times.

This unique rewards programme ensures that the more policyholders earn, the less they pay for their subsequent policies, with the added allure of opportunities to secure free car insurance.

Key highlights of the rewards programme include Earn As You Insure. With every policy purchase,

customers earn 50 reward credits, each worth £1. These credits can be applied towards other car insurance policies, effectively translating into real savings for the policyholders. This product range will expand considerably over the next 12 months encompassing weekends away, health and beauty products and much more.

The Refer and Earn part of the scheme allows both customers and non-customers to participate. Upon successful referral of a friend, both the referrer and the new policyholder receive 50 reward credits, worth £50.

The unique rewards system takes the burden off one of the most significant financial commitments for individuals during the ongoing credit crisis, making car insurance more affordable and accessible.

Gary McClarty, Managing Director and Founder of MCL InsureTech Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to reintroduce GetSetGo with an innovative approach tailored to drivers aged 17 years and up, catering to both young drivers and seasoned motorists. GetSetGo acknowledges and rewards the loyalty of our customers. Our focus on potential savings aligns

perfectly with the current financial climate, where clients stand to gain significant benefits. By reshaping the car insurance landscape with our rewards scheme, we aim to offer a respite from the conventional inflexibility of insurance costs. With this in mind we have introduced a new tagline, which we believe fits perfectly with our enhanced offering; Game-changing insurance that’s Faster. Better. Easier.”

McClarty added: “We are equally excited to welcome Rob Kearney as our brand ambassador. His remarkable achievements in rugby mirror our aspiration to be transformative within the insurance sector.”

As consumers seek cost-effective solutions amidst the cost-of-living crisis, GetSetGo sets itself apart by being the sole insurance provider to offer an exclusive rewards programme.

The brand’s commitment to convenience and innovation was evident in its inception in July 2021, as part of the MCL multi-brand family. GetSetGo’s digital-centric approach resonates with the tech-savvy demographic, providing hassle-free management of car insurance premiums online.

Gary McClarty, Managing Director and Founder of MCL InsureTech Ltd with Rob Kearney.

Belfast City Airport’s Charity Partnership With Air Ambulance NI Takes Off

Belfast City Airport has announced local medical services charity, Air Ambulance NI, as its Charity Partner of the Year for 2024 and 2025.

Working in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service to provide Helicopter based Emergency Medical Services for the region, Air Ambulance NI operates 12 hours per day, 365 days a year.

This new partnership will see Belfast City Airport raise vital funds to support the ongoing provision of Air Ambulance NI’s activities.

Anna McKelvey, Head of Marketing at Belfast City Airport, commented:

“As a responsible business, we are committed to giving back to our community and having a positive impact in the local area.

“The Airport boasts a strong track record of supporting local community development and we have no doubt that this new partnership with Air Ambulance NI will allow us to further build upon these efforts by providing crucial funding.

“I am proud to say that everyone at Belfast City Airport is dedicated to playing their part in raising money and awareness for worthwhile causes such as the Air Ambulance, and we are very much looking forward to the numerous events and initiatives that we have planned to support the vital work this charity does for people right across Northern Ireland.”

The partnership with Belfast City Airport will enable Air Ambulance NI to continue its life-saving missions and ensure that those in need receive the care they require in emergency situations.

Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Air Ambulance NI, added:

“Many people will not be aware that £2.5 million is needed each year to sustain Air Ambulance operations, meaning as a charity, we rely on donations from generous partners such as Belfast City Airport to keep our service running.

“We are hugely grateful to the Airport for choosing us as its Charity Partner for 2024 and hope that this support will help us to continue our mission to provide outstanding critical care where and when it’s needed most.”

This latest announcement follows the recent conclusion of Belfast City Airport’s charity partnership with Aware NI, which saw it donate over £17,000 towards the provision of mental health services across the region.

Eye on Events

Quality, innovation and talent on the menu at biggest ever NI Food and Drink Awards

The creativity and determination of local firms has been praised at the 2024 Northern Ireland Food and Drink

Arecord turnout of just under 500 guests turned out in style on Friday night for the gala awards celebration at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, presented by BBC NI’s Jo Scott.

Hosted by the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) and supported by principal sponsor firmus energy, the awards celebrate the products, people and processes that propel the growth of local food and drink firms. Now in their 17th year, the biennial awards are widely recognised as a key indicator of quality and success, offering local companies the opportunity to present innovative, quality products in front of key customers, with major retailers

Awards

Asda, Lidl NI, Marks and Spencer, and Tesco among the expert judging panel.

Michael Bell, Executive Director at NIFDA, congratulated the winners on the night:

“In Northern Ireland we have some of the most innovative and successful food and drink companies in the world.

Our industry supports some 113,000 jobs across the supply chain and generates £4.9bn value added here annually. We think that is something worth shouting about, and first and foremost the Northern Ireland Food and Drink Awards are about celebrating that success and the people that drive it.

“We added two new categories to the menu this year, a Rising

Star award highlighting the next generation of food and drink leaders and an Advanced Innovation award, recognising how our food and drink firms are investing in digital transformation and new technologies.

“Once again, we were impressed with the standard of entries across each of the 13 categories. The competitiveness of these awards, and the quality presented to the judging panel, is a testament to the tenacity and ingenuity of local firms. I am delighted that a record crowd turned out to join us in raising a glass to Northern Ireland food and drink, and I want to thank all the companies that entered and supported this year’s awards.”

Niall Martindale, Chief Executive Officer at firmus energy, principal sponsor for the event, added: “firmus energy is proud to be supporting the Northern Ireland Food

and Drink Awards as principal sponsor once again. The awards night is a fantastic opportunity to showcase and celebrate the passion and dedication of local companies in our food and drink sector, and recognise their contribution to the growth and success of this industry in Northern Ireland.

“As Northern Ireland’s largest supplier of natural gas, our strategic focus is decarbonising the gas in our network, for example, by using biomethane produced from the anaerobic digestion of unavoidable food waste or animal manure. We have an important role to play in Northern Ireland’s future energy requirements, and we look forward to supporting local companies with their ambitions to become more sustainable in a growing, circular economy.

“On behalf of all of us at firmus energy, I would like to congratulate all award winners.”

The 2024 Northern Ireland Food and Drink Awards winners celebrated in style.

Eye on Events

THIS YEAR’S FULL LIST OF WINNERS INCLUDES:

Best New Product, Large Company, sponsored by firmus energy

McColgan’s Gourmet Pork & Pancetta Sausage Rolls

Best New Product, Medium Company sponsored by firmus energy

Wilson’s Country Mashed Potatoes

Best New Product, Small Company sponsored by firmus energy

Milgro OniT! Cripsy Onions

Best New Product, Micro Company sponsored by firmus energy

Moocha Kombucha for Mixed Berry

Best Service Sector Product

Big Pot Co. for Potato & Leek Soup

Food Safety Champion sponsored by safefood

Victor Hazelton, Dunbia

Best International / GB Product Launch Award sponsored by Invest NI

Favourit Cajun Seasoning

Healthier Product Innovation Award sponsored by Food Standards Agency NI

Lakeland Dairies for Comelle Dairy Ice Cream Mix

Sustainable Agri-Food Supply Chain Excellence Award sponsored by DAERA

ABP Group

Advanced Innovation Award sponsored by Sysco Software and Birnie Consultancy

Avondale Foods

Rising Star Award sponsored by Vickerstock

Chloe Moore, Dunbia

Sustainability Award sponsored by KPMG

Coca-Cola HBC

Outstanding Contribution to NI Food and Drink

Brian Irwin, Irwin’s Bakery

1 BBC NI presenter Jo Scott was MC for the evening at the 2024 Northern Ireland Food and Drink Awards. 2 Almost 500 people joined the celebrations at the Crowne Plaza Hotel for the 2024 Northern Ireland Food and Drink Awards. 3 Wilson’s Country won the Best Medium Company Product Award for Mashed Potatoes. 4 McColgan’s picked up the Best Large Company Product Award for Gourmet Pork & Pancetta Sausage Rolls. 5 Moocha Kombucha won the Best Micro Company Product award on the night. 6 Michael Bell OBE, Executive Director, NIFDA pictured with Niall Martindale, CEO, firmus energy, principal sponsor for the awards. 7 Milgro ONiT!’s crispy onions collected the Best Small Company Product Award.

Eye on Charity

LOCAL STORES GO ABOVE AND BEYOND TO RAISE FUNDS

SuperValu and Centra Brand Communications Manager Carol Marshall (left), presents a cheque of £223,444 to Lucy McCusker, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Action Cancer (right). They are joined by Andrea Rocks from Cookstown who had her

Eye on Charity

SuperValu and Centra stores across Northern Ireland have pulled out all the stops and raised a staggering £223,444 in 2023 for their long-term charity partner Action Cancer.

This is the largest amount ever raised by the retail brands, which are part of Musgrave NI, in one year, and will help keep the charity’s mobile detection unit the Big Bus on the road – providing breast screening, skin cancer detection assessments, and health checks, as well as supporting the charity’s health action programme.

Fundraising initiatives throughout the year, including the Sponsor a Mammogram and the Frank and Honest coffee Time to Espresso we Care campaign, were ardently supported by SuperValu and Centra retailers and their teams, and by caring customers who gave so generously.

Desi Derby, Director of Marketing for SuperValu and Centra commented on the fundraising total:

“I am absolutely delighted by the amount of money raised by our customers, retail partners, and colleagues for Action Cancer during 2023 and want to thank every single person who contributed, for their support.

“There are very few partnerships that have this type of longevity, and to have raised this incredible total in 2023, which was also Action Cancer’s 50th anniversary

year, demonstrates support for the charity is stronger than ever. I am very proud that these funds will help ensure the Big Bus continues to visit communities across Northern Ireland, saving lives, and enable Action Cancer to deliver its health education programme in schools across Northern Ireland.”

Gareth Kirk, Action Cancer CEO, added:

“The partnership between SuperValu and Centra is one of the longest and most enduring charity partnerships across these islands. Without the incredible financial support of Super Valu and Centra, the Action Cancer mobile clinic The Big Bus would simply not exist. The Big Bus is truly a oneoff vehicle with no similar vehicle with onboard free breast and skin cancer detection services operating anywhere else in Europe. This life saving service is only made possible through the incredible generosity of the Musgrave Group and its superb customers, thank you, together we have not only made a difference to the lives of local people and communities, but through early detection of cancer, saved lives”.

Action Cancer Ambassador Andrea Rocks had her skin cancer

diagnosis made following an appointment on the Big Bus.

Andrea said: “The Big Bus has been a lifesaver for me. I scanned the QR code on a flyer I had picked up and was booked in for a virtual call that week. The nurse specialist assessed the mole on my arm and got me a face-to-face appointment on the Big Bus that Saturday. Once seen I was red flagged immediately – the staff on the Big Bus were excellent, calm, and reassuring. This early detection was so important for me, as once the biopsy was done, I was diagnosed with a stage 2 melanoma. Thank you, Action Cancer, for my early detection.”

Since 2006, the Big Bus has been bringing its onboard unique Breast Screening Service for women aged 40 to 49 and 70 plus and Health Checks, for men and women 18 plus, to local communities across all of N. Ireland. In addition to 2023 being Action’s Cancer’s 50th anniversary year, it was also a very special year for the Big Bus, the year when yet another unique lifesaving service was introduced, a skin cancer detection service.

Throughout 2023, the Big Bus visited 119 communities across N. Ireland. A total of 2,122

mammograms were completed, providing reassurance to women in these locations and detecting early-stage breast cancers in nine women, who had no symptoms. As a result of onboard health checks, 838 people were referred to their GP for further investigation.

Nearly 600 men and women were assessed for a potential skin cancer resulting in some 9% being directly “red flagged” into the hospital system for further assessment.

The incredible £223,444 fundraising total was reached through initiatives including the popular International Coffee Day event, when 50p per Frank and Honest coffee sold over three days was pledged to the charity, raising over £21,000.

During Breast Cancer Awareness month in October, stores across the country dressed in pink, held raffles, and called on shoppers to ‘sponsor a mammogram’ and raise £120 per store – the amount it costs Action Cancer to provide a free breast screening appointment to women outside of NHS screening age.

The grounds of Belfast City Hall were also turned into a sea of pink when SuperValu sponsored Breast Foot Forward in June, followed by the most successful Centra Run Together to date when 1,600 runners gathered at Ormeau Park in Belfast to take part in 5k and 10k routes raising a phenomenal £33,000.

MAY DAY, MAY DAY!

SuperValu and Centra stores throughout Northern Ireland are taking part in a May Day Bank Holiday fundraising initiative during 3rd- 6th May to keep the wheels of the Big Bus turning. This campaign will focus on raising funds towards Action Cancer’s skin cancer detection service, available on board the Big Bus and encourage customers to stay safe in the sun.

It costs the charity £120 to provide a skin cancer assessment and all funds raised will go towards this unique life-saving service.

Please drop into your local SuperValu or Centra and make a donation!

Eye on Sport

Sport Changes Life

Making A Real Difference At Grassroots Level

It’s more of a statement than a name. Sport Changes Life is a Northern Ireland-based foundation and charity but it’s also a fact of life. Sport, as anyone involved in it will testify, has the power to give life new direction.

That, in a line, is the essence of what is a unique charity, established back in 2007 by Ireland’s most capped basketball player Gareth Maguire alongside his wife Professor Deirdre Brennan, founder of the Sports Outreach Unit at Ulster University, and Belfast-based but Zimbabweanborn businessman Mark Marais.

Gareth called his foundation Sport Changes Life for a simple reason. It changed his. A child of the Troubles from West Belfast, basketball was his refuge and he was particularly inspired by the American players who came into the local game back in the 80’s.

Fast forward 17 years and Sport

Changes Life is a well-established sport-based charity working to transform young lives and shape futures here in Northern Ireland.

An influential board is chaired by Dr. Suresh Tharma, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist and one of the founders of what is now the Kingsbridge Healthcare Group.

It’s led from an office base appropriately situated at North Howard Street between the Falls & Shankill Roads by a small team led by Chief Executive Alan Teggart. Not surprisingly, Alan is a sportsman.

He still plays for Loughgall in the NIFL Premiership having played for Dungannon Swifts, Ballymena United and his home town club

Portadown in a long career.

He leads a small team of six, a reduction from the days when Sport Changes Life has a considerably larger complement of staff. But times are much tougher these days for any charitable organisation.

“It is tough,” says Alan Teggart. “We rely on money coming through from a number of the big charitable foundations, the National Lottery included, but we also raise funds through our own support network, and we’re always keen to talk to the corporate sector.”

The foundation recently received a boost from Northern Ireland’s own Dormant Accounts Fund, administered by the National

Lottery Community Fund. It’s funds, worth many millions of pounds each year, are drawn from dormant accounts in banks and building societies, where institutions have been unable to trace customers for 15 or more years. The scheme also includes insurance policies and pension schemes.

Sport Changes Life has its own dedicated Business Development Manager in Michael McCabe, a former PE teacher. Michael works with local organisations to establish formal partnerships.

“As Alan says, we can bring a lot to the table,” says Michael. “Partners can leverage our brand to enhance their corporate social responsibility programmes, and showcase their commitment to social impact and community development. But it goes a lot further than that. We can help them to improve their staff wellbeing offering, something that’s increasingly important these days.”

Alan Teggert, Chief Executive, Sport Changes Life.

Eye on Sport

The charity recently launched Beyond Business, a new campaign to connect it with more businesses across Northern Ireland.

Alan Teggart firmly believes that Sport Changes Life can offer as much to a business as the business can to the foundation.

“I’ve seen at first hand the profound impact that strategic partnerships and corporate engagement can have on our initiatives but also on those who work for the businesses we engage with.”

Sport Changes Life delivers Staff Wellbeing Days for its corporate partners, described as an invigorating blend of physical activity, ice breakers and teambuilding. But the SCL team can also organise and run Sports Events and Sports Days for companies and organisations, tailor-made, lively and enjoyable days for staff and others. The charity also offers volunteering opportunities in the community for staff members of partner organisations.

But it’s at community level that SCL makes its greatest impact. In some areas, anti-social behaviour has been cut by upwards of 70% in the wake of SCL programmes being introduced. It’s flagship programme is eHoops, designed in partnership with Ulster University.

“It’s a sad fact of life that some of our young people know more about conflict than they do about friendship and they have few if any role models,” says Alan Teggart.

“But that’s where we can come in.”

“Through eHoops, supported by a number of funding bodies, we use a healthy mix of sport with alternative education, to give our young people a brighter future and enable them to become an active citizen in society. Our professional team of Victory Scholars and Sports Mentors deliver one of the most empowering, innovative and inspirational youth engagement programmes that will help motivate our young people to a brighter future. During the programme we mentor young people through difficult times in their lives and address social issues of concern with the aim to help the young people with their education, employment, health & mental well-being through the aid of our Victory Scholars.”

Victory Scholars are recently graduated NCAA student athletes,

carefully selected from the United States. For 12 months, they continue to study, play and mentor young people, acting as role models through sport-led intervention, just as the American basketball players did for Gareth Maguire all those years ago.

The eHoops Programme is designed to last 24 weeks and it’s aimed at 14-24 year olds who are not in education, employment or training. It offers a unique opportunity for them to build team working skills, leadership skills as well as active citizenship skills.

It’s not all about young people. Sport Changes Life also works in the community with adults, working to reduce social isolation and loneliness and providing access to structured physical activities.

“We know that what we’re doing can make a difference and does make a difference,” says Alan Teggart. “Anyone who spends some time watching young people taking part in our programmes can see that.

“What’s important now is that we can continue to bring what we do best to communities and young people here. There are a lot more we’d like to reach. And local businesses here in Northern Ireland can have a key role alongside us.”

www.sportchangeslife.com

Tel No: 02896218637

Email: info@sportchangeslife.com

or Business Development Officer: m.mccabe@sportchangeslife.com

Primary school’s festival day in East Belfast with Radius Housing as part of a bespoke good relations project.

Recent launch of a sport-led environmental education project with corporate partner Phoenix Energy.

Eye on News

Venue Group Selects Inspire As New Charity Partner

BWUH Ltd. the organisation behind ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall, has announced Inspire, the largest mental health, learning disability and wellbeing charity in Northern Ireland, as its selected charity partner for 2024.

The partnership will see the BWUH Ltd. team organise various fundraising events in aid of Inspire, whilst also volunteering their time to the charity throughout the year.

Lisa McElherron, Director of Insight, Engagement and Innovation at Inspire, said, “Inspire are delighted to be partnering with BWUH Ltd. Our recent polling shows that one in five people in Northern Ireland have poor to very poor mental health and 60 per cent of people agree that the pressures of the last few years have made them less likely to open up about their mental health as they don’t want to worry others

during difficult times. It is impressive to see BWUH Ltd. prioritising the mental health and wellbeing of their team but also the general public. The support BWUH Ltd. can provide in helping us reach more people has never been more important. We look forward to working together in promoting the partnership, raising awareness, and enhancing community engagement but also bringing our expertise to the team to support their approach to positive mental health and wellbeing.”

Inspire was selected following a company-wide call for nominations from almost 300 employees which

were shortlisted before three organisations were invited to pitch to the BWUH Ltd. Team Engagement Committee. The Committee focused its selection criteria on locality, alignment in organisational values and available opportunities for BWUH Ltd. to get involved with and deliver meaningful opportunities to ensure the partnership is mutually beneficial.

Clare McCann, HR Manager and a member of the BWUH Ltd. Diversity Champions Committee said, “Our charity partners are incredibly important to us as they help BWUH Ltd. build a culture that is open, safe and inclusive. We deliver for the selected organisation by fundraising and leveraging our networks on their behalf, whilst also improving the quality of life for our employees by offering training and development that allows them to learn and grow through our ongoing collaboration. For instance, throughout our time working with our outgoing charity partner, Autism NI, we worked to achieve

our Autism Impact Award which has supported us to provide greater inclusivity across our venues. We look forward to building on initiatives that deliver not only a lasting impact for our venues, but for Belfast and for Northern Ireland too.”

Julia Corkey, Chief Executive of ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall, said, “Inspire works with people living with mental ill health, intellectual disability, autism and addictions to ensure they live with dignity and realise their full potential. Diversity and Inclusion is a key pillar across our venues so it’s wonderful to support another organisation that is aligned to our values. Our venues make a significant contribution to the region’s economy, but we’re an organisation that is also focused on our social and cultural impact, and our charity partners are key in supporting us to realise our ESG commitment. We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Inspire and we look forward to establishing a mutually beneficial partnership over the coming months.”

Phil Cole Senior Event Manager at BWUH Ltd., Danielle Sheridan Fundraising Manager at Inspire, Ruairí MacMahon Operations Administrator at BWUH Ltd., Julia Corkey Chief Executive of BWUH Ltd., Lisa McElherron Director of Insight, Engagement and Innovation at Inspire, Tony McGuigan Senior Hall Crew Member at BWUH Ltd., Clare McCann HR Manager at BWUH Ltd., Ellen Farrell, Corporate Project Assistant at BWUH Ltd.

Eye on Awards

www.businesseyeawards.co.uk

Awards Shortlist 2024

Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Business of The Year

Fish City

Killeavy Castle Estate

Andras Hotel Group

Room2

Larchfield Estate

Sponsored by Diageo

Sustainable Manufacturing Business of The Year

Biopax

Brett Martin

Huhtamaki

AG Paving + Building Products

Elite Electronic Systems

Camden Group

Alternative Heat

Sponsored by Bank of Ireland

Sustainable Retail Business of The Year

Lidl

Musgrave Northern Ireland

Sponsored by Maxol

Major Project of The Year

M&M Contractors (Europe)

Weev

Alternative Heat

Environmental Street Furniture

Sustainable Business Leader of the Year

Cubic3 – Roger Alexander

Vyta – Philip McMichael

Alternative Heat – Connel McMullan

Environmental Street Furniture – Alan Lowry

Express Merchants – Helen Jameson

Salt Communications – Joe Boyle

Larchfield Estate – Gavin & Sarah Mackie

Sponsored by Queens Business School

Sustainable Food and Drink Company of The Year

Diageo

Wilsons Country

Fish City

Sustainable Transport Award

Weev

Translink

M&M Contractors (Europe)

Sponsored by Fleet Financial

Eye on Awards

Sustainable Team of The Year

GRAHAM

Alternative Heat

Version 1

Sponsored by Honeycomb

www.businesseyeawards.co.uk

Sustainable Company of The Year

Biopax

GRAHAM

Vyta

JP Corry

Henry Brothers

Lidl Northern Ireland

Elite Electronic Systems Ltd

Lancia Consult

Brett Martin

Cundall

Musgrave Northern Ireland

Smet Building Products

Salt Communications

Sponsored by Strategic Power Connect

Young Sustainability Champion Award

The Odyssey Trust Company – Jamie Hamilton

BITCNI – Jordan Birt

GRAHAM – Morgan Beattie

MDE Installations – Danielle Daly

Building Performance Prediction – Aine Murray

Crawfords Rock – Tessa Wilson

Green Building Award

GRAHAM

Titanic Quarter Ltd

SSE Airtricity Energy Services

Bryson Charitable Group

Queen’s University Belfast

Sponsored by Alpha

Net Zero/Carbon Reduction Award

GRAHAM

Energystore

Larchfield Estate

Sponsored by InvestNI

Eco Developer of The Year

Strand Homes

Lamington Group

Sponsored by CBRE

Innovation in Sustainability Award

Fish City

Environmental Street Furniture

Salt Communications

Precept It

Carbonfit

Eye on News

b4b to energize NI’s Renewable Energy sector with strategic acquisition

Dominic Kearns and Tommy O’ Hagan have made names for themselves in Northern Ireland in the last decade, with a roster of innovative and disruptive companies under their belt, some of which are among NI’s fastest growing businesses, including Fibrus, Weev, b4b group and Viberoptix.

All of those businesses have been built from start-ups to mature (and still growing) businesses that now cumulatively employ in excess of 1,000 people.

Now turning their hands to renewables, Kearns and O’Hagan have set up b4b Renewables, incorporating Daly, which will initially focus on providing solar generation and battery storage solutions to commercial buildings as well as Heat Pump energy solutions to hotels, factories and retail businesses. Many businesses today are seeking to build their ESG credentials but also mitigate against rising energy costs through the adoption of renewable energy solutions.

Daly Renewables is an industry leading company in renewable technologies services to housebuilders, for one-off bespoke houses, large scale residential and social housing. The acquisition will drive expansion of the existing service offering while supporting ventures into new areas.

Ryan Daly, a director at newly formed b4b Renewables, was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year in Northern Ireland in 2011 and is one of Northern Ireland’s foremost experts in the design and installation of renewable energy systems.

He said: “Daly has been operating for more than a decade and we have seen the sector go from strengthto-strength as market conditions, global environmental impact and rising costs have all played a role in driving interest in renewable technologies.

“One of the areas Daly has excelled

The entrepreneurs behind Belfast’s b4b Group have acquired a majority stake of local renewable energy solutions company, Daly Renewables (Daly), with plans to create 20 new jobs over the next two years.

in is design and technical drawings of renewable solutions. Each system is designed by our in-house team and calculations are produced for all elements pre-installation. This give our customers the confidence that the end result will be of the upmost quality.

Joining forces with the guys from b4b will give us the experience at scaling the business, allow us to invest in our team and technical capabilities even more – taking us to the next level.”

Belfast based corporate finance professional Brian Loughran also joins the b4b duo, investing in the new combined entity. Loughran who

recently took up the role of Managing Director of Carsena Investments, a vehicle used by Kearns to hold and manage his investments, said there is ‘much to be done locally to assist businesses and society with their energy transition’. Loughran said: “This acquisition is our first transaction in the renewables space and we’re pleased to have brought such an established renewables business into the fold.

Daly’s expert knowledge of the industry and the developing technologies available in the market give us a perfect platform to scale quickly.

“There is a lot to do to reach net zero and significant investment will be needed locally to address it. In Ireland and the UK we have been good at generation but it alone will not solve the energy transition.

We have already started dealing with the transport transition through our EV charging business Weev and through our renewables venture we plan to help businesses and households with their journey focusing straight away on micro generation through solar and their heating transition. Theres lots to do.”

Ryan Daly and Brian Loughran of the newly formed b4b Renewables.

For when business success needs admin support

Eye Moving On

A General Manager, who has provided hospitality for the President of the United States and His Royal Highness King Charles, has been appointed to lead the team at the five-star Dunluce Lodge which will open this autumn. Stephen Meldrum, who has managed several Northern Ireland hotels says being given the opportunity to take charge at the luxurious Dunluce Lodge, just outside Portrush, on the Causeway Coast is a ‘dream come true’. The hotel’s operator, Valor Hospitality Partners, has also appointed Sinead McNicholl as Director of Sales & Marketing. Sinead joins the team at Dunluce Lodge from a nearby four-star hotel where she worked for 13 years as Sales and Marketing Manager.

Mount Charles has made a series of senior appointments. Chris Annon becomes a Director. Chris is a pivotal family and board member of the Mount Charles Group with over 25 years’ experience with the organisation. He previously looked after the operating of the vending division and is also on the committees within the Associated Vending Services (AVS), which is a UK and Ireland-wide organisation.

Sarah-Jayne Hunniford is appointed as Chief Financial Officer. Sarah-Jayne has gained significant experience in the development of business growth strategies, implementing substantial business transformation by driving profitability, efficiency and innovation. She is a Fellow and Business & Finance Professional of the Institute of Chartered Accountants England & Wales. Rorie McBride becomes Chief Technology Officer. Rorie has over 20 years of experience designing, implementing and delivering major IT projects across EMEA. Following a successful period in the IT Director role, Rorie will focus on the use of technology across the group to help them deliver their business goals.

1. Stephen Meldrum

3. Sarah-Jayne Hunniford

2. Chris Annon

4. Rorie McBride

For when business success needs admin support

Eye Moving On

5 6 7

Solicitor Sian McConnell has joined leading Belfast law firm, Millar McCall Wylie. Sian joins the firm’s expanding Employment Law team as a specialist in this area. Sian holds a degree in Law and Criminology from Ulster University with a post graduate certificate in Employment Law and Practice.

Lough Erne Resort has appointed Gareth Byrne as its new General Manager. Gareth, a native of Newcastle, County Down, joins the 5-star hotel, spa and golf resort with 25 years experience within the hospitality industry. He has worked in a range of leading luxury hotels including The Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast and The Kensington, London. Most recently Gareth was General Manager of the Duke of Richmond Hotel in Guernsey.

Killeavy Castle Estate has announced the appointment of Cate Murdock as the Director of Sales and Marketing. Having spent the last 20 years working across educational, operational, and strategic roles in the travel, tourism, and events sector in Ireland, Murdock brings a wealth of experience to her new position. Her prior roles include significant contributions at Belfast Metropolitan College, Intupod, Historic Royal Palaces, and several other prominent organisations in the travel and tourism sector.

8

Donna McFadden has been appointed as Operations Director at Kilwaughter Minerals, the leading quarry and mineral processor. Donna will lead on the roll-out of Kilwaughter’s operations strategy and the implementation of the organisation’s vision, purpose and values, with responsibility for all activities relating to the quarry, mill, minerals and manufacture of render as well as maintenance, projects and warehousing.

5. Sian McConnell

7. Cate Murdock

8. Donna McFadden

6. Gareth Byrne

Ulster Bank reaffirms support for farmers in lead up to Balmoral Show

While inflation may have eased in recent months, there are always ongoing issues impacting farm businesses. Currently the main issue is the weather with a continued dry period long over due. Farmers may need additional cash to help them through a prolonged winter and Ulster Bank is here to provide support where it can.

That’s the message from Senior Agriculture Manager, Cormac McKervey, at an event hosted by Ulster Bank today, ahead of its principal sponsorship of this year’s Balmoral Show which returns to Balmoral Park in around 4 weeks’ time.

Members of the Guild of Agricultural Journalists and other stakeholders joined senior figures from within the bank for an update on a number of key issues facing the local agri-food sector and to learn more about Ulster Bank’s commitment to the industry.

Senior Agriculture Manager, Cormac McKervey, and Ulster Bank’s Chief Economist, Richard Ramsey, updated media, and other invited guests, on the overall health of the local food and farming sectors and provided an outlook on other related economic issues.

They were joined by Ulster Bank’s Head of NI, Mark Crimmins, who encouraged those in the audience to tap into the bank’s knowledge and connections to the agrifood sector and asked for their support as Ulster Bank plays a leading role in tackling climate

change and grasping the opportunities presented by a new, greener economy.

During his opening remarks, Mr. Crimmins said: “The agri-food sector is a crucial component of our local economy and as such, we remain committed to supporting farmers in what has no doubt been a challenging period for them.”

Cormac McKervey, Senior Agriculture Manager, Ulster Bank, said: “12 months ago this sector was dealing with financial pressures brought about by rising input costs and falling milk prices. Despite some of the financial burdens easing, many

farmers are still operating in challenging times particularly the weather.

“Continuous high rainfall throughout late 2023 and early 2024 has had a worrying impact and will cause difficulties for lambing and calving, for arable farmers trying to plant spring crops, and interrupt the fertilising schedule for those involved in silage production. All of this may cause cash flow issues and we will be engaging with those customers and identifying where we can provide additional support to alleviate some of the more upfront cost pressures.

“TB continues to be a major source of stress for the sector – both mentally and physically – and we would like to see the planning process improved to help with continuous investment in the sector.

“That said, there are shoots of optimism and it’s important that farmers don’t lose sight of opportunities. Land and livestock prices remain strong and stable and falling grain prices have helped farmers livestock farmers to maintain or increase their margins. It has been a difficult time for arable farmers with the double whammy of poor weather and lower prices. It’s encouraging to see so many farmers make use undertake the carbon audit and DAERA is doing a good job directing and supporting farmers along the path of transition. It’s also encouraging to learn that many of CAFRE’s agri courses are oversubscribed, ensuring a strong pipeline of farmers in the future.”

The gap between farmer borrowing and farmer deposits has closed over recent years. The debt level remains below £1bn for the 8th successive quarter while deposits are slightly over £600m. The bank remains keen to lend to the sector.

Pictured at the Ulster Bank and Guild of Agricultural Journalists Pre-Balmoral Show Briefing is (L-R) Cormac McKervey, Ulster Bank’s Head of Agriculture; Mark Crimmins, Ulster Bank Regional Managing Director; Rhonda Geary, Operations Director at the RUAS, and Richard Ramsey, Ulster Bank’s Chief Economist.

Eye on News

Clarendon Dock Office Building Goes On The Market

Beacon House in Belfast’s Clarendon Dock Business Park has been brought to market for sale, with offers in excess of £4.6 million being sought.

Located in Belfast Harbour Estate close to the city centre, Beacon House is a 51,028 sq ft waterfront office building comprising five storeys.

The building is currently let in its entirety to London-headquartered international outsourcing company Capita until 2028 at a passing rent of £675,000 per annum.

James Turkington, Senior Surveyor at selling agent CBRE NI, said:

“As a flagship building situated on a unique headland site in Clarendon

Dock, Beacon House represents an excellent investment opportunity with the building being periodically refurbished over the last decade.

“Having been completely redeveloped over the last 20 years, Clarendon Dock has a wide-range of tenants that includes Belfast Harbour Commissioners, UTV and WR Barnett.

“CBRE’s recent study revealed that 90% of companies are committed to re-establishing their physical presence by the end of 2024, and we look forward to continued interest and activity in the office market throughout the year.”

There is a manned security office and barrier access control system on

the ground floor, while the upper floors offer a large, open-plan design with a provision of private offices, meeting rooms and communal break-out areas. Two 10-person lifts serve the building.

Further information about the property can be found at www.cbreni.com

Five-Year Renovation Of Europa Hotel Is Completed

Hastings Hotels has announced the completion of a five-year renewal project of the Europa Hotel following a £15 million investment.

The extensive renovation programme encompasses upgrades to all 272 guest bedrooms, the Lobby Bar, Piano Restaurant, the meeting rooms on the second floor and a remodelling of the Penthouse on the 12th floor.

To celebrate, the leading hotel collection has commissioned renowned local artist Colin Davidson to create a new painting. ‘The ‘71’ measures 7 foot by 5 foot and is an abstract rendering of the bus that Colin used to take on his journey home from school.

Howard Hastings, Chairman of Hastings Hotels said: “It is no

mean feat to completely renovate a hotel, especially when it’s one of the busiest hotels in Northern Ireland. However, that is what we have done and are thrilled to have now fully upgraded the front and back of house at the Europa Hotel, representing a £15 million investment over a period of five years. An iconic property and an important landmark to Belfast, the investments were designed to modernise the hotel’s facilities and preserve its rich history.

To mark the completion of this momentous project, we are delighted to have commissioned Colin Davidson to create a stunning painting that is now proudly displayed in the lobby. ‘No 71’ was the bus that took Colin from his school, Methody, to near where he lived on the Upper Malone Road in Belfast. From close up, it is an abstract blaze

of red and yellow brushstrokes and only by looking at it from a distance can the image of the double decker bus be discerned. The painting evokes fond nostalgic childhood memories of growing up in Belfast, for Colin, myself and I hope lots of our guests and is a unique nod to the once in a generation renewal project of this special hotel.”

Colin Davidson said: “It’s a real privilege for me, not just as an artist but also a man who was born in Belfast and grew up during the dark days in this city, to have a painting hanging in this iconic hotel and to see it renewed once again and looking to the future. This painting is personal to both me and Howard. ‘The 71’ is a red double-decker bus that we both got to and from our different schools, albeit a bit further down the road and

a few years apart! As my childself moved into adulthood, this was my journey home. I captured every landmark on that route as I looked outward. It became my escape. This is a painting of a memory. It’s an iconic part of Belfast’s

history that I wanted to reflect. The lovely synergy in this, is that not only is ‘The 71’ a memory of our childhood, but the Europa was also opened for the first time in 1971, so it makes me feel that this painting is meant to be here and that is a delight for me.”

Artist Colin Davidson (centre) is joined by Andy McNeill, General Manager of the Europa Hotel and Howard Hastings, Chairman of Hastings Hotels at the unveiling of the new artwork.

NEW CHARITY PARTNER FOR TITANIC HOTEL

Titanic Hotel Belfast has announced a partnership with Cancer Fund for Children, a leading charity dedicated to supporting children and families affected by cancer.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in Titanic Hotel Belfast’s constant commitment to making a positive impact in the local community.

Cancer Fund for Children provides informal emotional, social and therapeutic support to children, young people and families impacted by cancer, at home, in hospital and at their therapeutic short break centre, Daisy Lodge. The charity’s mission is to help ensure no child has to face cancer alone.

Adrian McNally, General Manager

of Titanic Hotel Belfast, said: “As a beacon of Belfast’s tourism and hospitality sector, we recognise the importance of giving back to the local community where we operate. We have chosen to partner with Cancer Fund for Children for 2024 and contribute to their vital work in supporting children and families affected by cancer.

I believe that together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those navigating the most challenging of times.”

Lisa Hartle, Partnership and Philanthropy Executive at Cancer

Fund for Children said: “We are so grateful to Titanic Hotel Belfast for choosing to support our charity throughout 2024. At Cancer Fund for Children, we understand the devastating impact a cancer diagnosis can have on the whole family and that beyond the essential medical care, there is a family life that needs to be rebuilt. With the help of the amazing team at Titanic Hotel Belfast, we hope to be there for even more families that need us.”

The partnership will involve Titanic Hotel Belfast engaging in a range of fundraising initiatives throughout the year, including charity events, donation drives, and special promotions. Guests and staff alike will have the opportunity to participate in activities designed to raise funds and awareness of Cancer Fund for Children’s programmes and services.

Mr Chris Hoo skin tag and PDO Thread-lifts, offers Cosmetic interview

COSMETIC SKIN

Mr Chris Hoo

Q: How are skin

Skin tags are a bit by cutting, freezing off (electrotherapy). a controlled sterile risk of infection, clinic needs to be Moles are usually they are shaved the removal, especially features, the whole removed in one lab for pathology cells. At Cosmetech

Q: How are moles removed?

Skin tags are removed by setting to minimise of the skin needs

Q: Does it hurt

If there is going or surgeon should to numb the area. the anaesthetic significant and the a couple of minutes. can sometimes Cosmetech has applied in clinic in like causing pain

Q: How long

Titanic Hotel Belfast’s commitment to corporate social responsibility aligns perfectly with Cancer Fund for Children’s mission to ensure that no child or family faces cancer alone. By joining forces, both organisations are creating a powerful synergy that will benefit the local community now and for years to come.

Northern Ireland’s Leading Hotel, Titanic Hotel Belfast, is located in the heart of Titanic Quarter, offering guests a unique blend of history, heritage, and modern comfort. Housed within the historic Harland & Wolff headquarters and drawing inspiration from the city’s maritime legacy, Titanic Hotel Belfast provides an unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world. www.titanichotelbelfast.com

E: Skin

Most of these procedures can be removed 10 minutes. Administration skin preparation

Q: Does it these removed? discomfort as anaesthetic

66 Maypole

Lisa Hartle, Partnership and Philanthropy Executive at Cancer Fund for Children, and Adrian McNally, General Manager of Titanic Hotel Belfast, are joined by members of the hotel team to launch the hotel’s charity partnership with Cancer Fund for Children.

Skin Tag Removal

Skin Tag Removal

Hoo is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Cosmetech and offers and mole removal and other non- surgical treatments including Thread-lifts, Dermal Fillers and Anti-wrinkle Injections. He also Cosmetic Surgery at Kingsbridge Private Hospital. Today we interview him about minor surgery for skin tag and mole removal:

COSMETIC MOLE AND SKIN TAG REMOVAL

Mr Chris Hoo is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Cosmetech and offers skin tag and mole removal and other non- surgical treatments including PDO Thread-lifts, Dermal Fillers and Anti-wrinkle Injections. He also offers Cosmetic Surgery at Kingsbridge Private Hospital. Today we interview him about minor surgery for skin tag and mole removal:

Cosmetic Mole & Skin Tag Removal

Q: How are skin tags and moles removed?

Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mr Chris Hoo specialises in the removal of cosmetic moles and skin tags. In the vast majority of cases all of these lesions are benign. But if there is any clinical concern about the nature of the lesion it can be sent o for testing.

are skin tags and removed?

skin tags and moles removed? bit easier and can be removed freezing (cryotherapy) or burning (electrotherapy). This should be done in sterile setting to minimise the and they do bleed so the be able to manage this. usually excised with a scalpel. Occasionally off but to ensure completion of especially if there are any suspicious whole depth of the skin needs to be piece. Moles should be sent to the pathology to ensure there are no suspicious Cosmetech we send all moles for pathology.

Skin tags are a bit easier and can be removed by cutting, freezing (cryotherapy) or burning off (electrotherapy). This should be done in a controlled sterile setting to minimise the risk of infection, and they do bleed so the clinic needs to be able to manage this. Moles are usually excised with a scalpel. Occasionally they are shaved off but to ensure completion of the removal, especially if there are any suspicious features, the whole depth of the skin needs to be removed in one piece. Moles should be sent to the lab for pathology to ensure there are no suspicious cells. At Cosmetech we send all moles for pathology.

lesions are being removed obviously it will take a bit longer. A skin tag can be removed in a matter of seconds but again, it is key that this is done in a controlled sterile setting (don’t try this at home).

lesions are being removed obviously it will take a bit longer. A skin tag can be removed in a matter of seconds but again, it is key that this is done in a controlled sterile setting (don’t try this at home).

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

READER OFFER

Common Q&A for cosmetic skin tag and mole removal:

Q: How are skin lesions removed?

Q: How long does the procedure take?

are a bit easier and can be cutting, freezing (cryotherapy)

hurt having these removed?

In most cases these can be done under a local anaesthetic. If there are no concerns about its nature they can be either shaved o , or excised. Some skin lesions can also be treated by freezing the skin – termed cryotherapy. All options are discussed with the patient beforehand.

minimise the risk of infection,

Usually there is no issue with driving unless for example the lesion was near the eye and vision was temporarily affected by swelling or watering. Hand surgery can also affect driving but the vast majority of these lesions are small enough not to cause a problem. If in doubt bring a friend or relative or take a taxi.

Usually there is no issue with driving unless for example the lesion was near the eye and vision was temporarily affected by swelling or watering. Hand surgery can also affect driving but the vast majority of these lesions are small enough not to cause a problem. If in doubt bring a friend or relative or take a taxi.

Q: What about aftercare?

Q: What about aftercare?

Q: Does it hurt having these removed?

Quote Business Eye 347 when booking

Q: What about aftercare?

To book a consultation at Cosmetech

Most of these procedures are very

If stitches have been necessary these are generally removed after 5–7 days. For best results a combination of steri-strips and scar massage arerequired and which you need to do will be discussed.

Administration of anaesthetic and skin preparation add some time, and

If there is going to be significant discomfort the doctor or surgeon should usually administer local anaesthetic to numb the area. There will be mild discomfort as the anaesthetic is being injected but it is usually not significant and the anaesthetic takes effect within a couple of minutes. For very small skin tags, they can sometimes be frozen off without anaesthetic. Cosmetech has local anaesthetic cream which can be applied in clinic in advance of the procedure. We don’t like causing pain and make every effort to minimise it.

There is usually a dressing for the first 3 to 7 days and, depending upon the operation site, sutures may need to be removed.

Q: Does it hurt having these removed?

Since these are treated under local anaesthetic it shouldn’t!

needs to be removed in one

The worse bit is having the injection of anaesthetic, which many patients describe as a mild stinging sensation. Cryotherapy does not even need an anaesthetic.

to be significant discomfort the doctor should usually administer local anaesthetic area. There will be mild discomfort as is being injected but it is usually not the anaesthetic takes effect within minutes. For very small skin tags, they be frozen off without anaesthetic. local anaesthetic cream which can be in advance of the procedure. We don’t pain and make every effort to minimise it. does the procedure take? procedures are very quick. A mole and the skin sutured within 5 to Administration of anaesthetic and preparation add some time, and if several

Q: How long does the procedure take?

Most of these procedures are very quick. A mole can be removed and the skin sutured within 5 to 10 minutes. Administration of anaesthetic and skin preparation add some time, and if several

hurt having removed?

as the anaesthetic is being cream which can be Hoo is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Cosmetech and

Q: Will I have a scar?

tag can be removed in a matter of seconds but again, it is key that this

On the face these are often removed between 5 to 7 days, but are left a bit longer on other body areas. Again these should be removed by someone skilled and experienced as doing it incorrectly can leave bits of stitch in the skin, or risk reopening the wound. After about a week most wounds do not need dressed but should be kept clean, and paraffin ointment often helps at this time. Depending on your surgeon, the wound may be dressed with ointment alone or sometimes skin glue.

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

Q: Will I have a scar?

Q: How long does the procedure take?

There is usually a dressing for the first 3 to 7 days and, depending upon the operation site, sutures may need to be removed. On the face these are often removed between 5 to 7 days, but are left a bit longer on other body areas. Again these should be removed by someone skilled and experienced as doing it incorrectly can leave bits of stitch in the skin, or risk reopening the wound. After about a week most wounds do not need dressed but should be kept clean, and paraffin ointment often helps at this time. Depending on your surgeon, the wound may be dressed with ointment alone or sometimes skin glue.

Q: Will I have a scar?

This depends on what’s being done, but most procedures take between 15–30 minutes.

Q: Can I drive home afterwards?

Other treatments available include: Anti-wrinkle Injections, Dermal fillers, PDO Thread-lifts, Thread vein removal, Aqualyx fat dissolving injections and Profhilo.

Scarring is an inevitable consequence of surgery in anyone’s hands, so yes. But of course the whole point is to be cosmetic and so everything is designed to minimise this. It’s best to consider this as replacing one cosmetic blemish with a another one, which should be much better.

All surgery which cuts through the full depth of skin will leave a scar. Skin tag excision shouldn’t leave much noticeable scarring but mole excision usually

All surgery which cuts through the full depth of skin will leave a scar. Skin tag excision shouldn’t leave much noticeable scarring but mole excision usually

T: 028 9042 3200

Maypole Clinic 5-7 Shore Road

E: frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk

After about a week most wounds do not

will. The quality of the scar can vary depending on

will. The quality of the scar can vary depending on genetics. To optimise the scar we perform precise stitching, remove stitches at the appropriate time, and encourage scar management in the form of

66 Maypole Clinic 5-7 Shore Road Holywood BT18 9XH

Q: What about aftercare?

www.cosmetech.co.uk

Holywood BT18 9XH

That depends on you! If you are the sort of person who can drive home after a filling at the dentist then there should be no reason why not. But if you are a bit squeamish, best to bring someone with you. They can at least tell you how brave you were, even if they don’t need to drive!

T: 028 9042 3200

frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk www.cosmetech.co.uk

to 7 days and, depending upon the operation site, sutures may need to be

For enquiries, please call 028 9042 3200 or email frontdesk@cosmetech.co.uk

cosmetech.co.uk

Cosmetech Maypole Clinic

5-7 Shore Road, Holywood, BT18 9XH

Tel: +44 (0) 28 9042 3200

Eye on News

ACTION CANCER ANNOUNCES WALK THE WALK FUNDING

Action Cancer has received £100,000 from Walk the Walk, best known as organisers of the iconic MoonWalk London. This funding will support Action Cancer’s Therapeutic Services which are on offer to people affected by cancer throughout Northern Ireland.

Action Cancer’s Therapeutic Services can help deal with the physical and emotional impacts of cancer, for example, pain, restrictions, fatigue, sleeplessness, anxiety and fear. Action Cancer offers Counselling, Complementary Therapies, Life Coaching, Peer Mentoring, Scar Therapy and Yoga/Pilates to those in need.

The funding will also enable Action Cancer to proceed with the development of an Integrative Cancer Care Pathway model, including the development of relevant programmes and associated IT infrastructure aimed at establishing Action Cancer as the Northern Ireland Integrative Cancer Care Centre.

The grant provides additional time to identify and obtain other sources of funding to secure the sustainability of the

services beyond 2025 while providing the charity with the opportunity to leverage match funding from alternative sources.

The funding also has the added benefit of enabling Action Cancer to retain highly skilled and qualified practitioners in their respective areas of expertise with a range of specialist cancer related qualifications.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of breast cancer charity Walk the Walk, said:

“I am delighted to share that Walk the Walk have awarded a grant to Action Cancer. This will fund 1,000 sessions of therapeutic support to around 215 people diagnosed with cancer. I know from my own experience how frightening and isolating a cancer diagnosis can be, so the service which Action Cancer provide to help support

cancer patients through an incredibly difficult time, really is life-changing.

“Three years ago, we were thrilled to be the principal funder of Action Cancer’s new Big Bus, which does such vital work across Northern Ireland, providing health checks and breast screenings for women outside of the NHS screening range, 40-49 and over the age of 70. It is really exciting that by working together again, our charities are continuing to make such a huge difference.

“Grants, like this one to Action Cancer, are also amazing news for Walk the Walk’s wonderful fundraisers. I cannot thank these fantastic people enough! Sign up now atwalkthewalk.org for our flagship overnight fundraising challenge

The MoonWalk London on Saturday 18 May. It’s an incredible, fun-filled fiesta of a night, bringing many people together, putting one foot in front of the other and achieving a personal goal, whilst helping others. Come and see for yourself; it really is breath-taking!”

Carol Withers is a HR Manager from Larne. Carol lives with her husband and has two grown up boys aged 25 and 22. Carol, having accessed Complementary Therapy with Action Cancer, following a breast

cancer diagnosis, shares her experience:

“I cannot speak highly enough about this service, as well as the invaluable support I received from my therapist, Alicia, throughout the past few months. Alicia is an exceptionally knowledgeable, compassionate, and remarkable individual. Amidst a challenging period in my life, the assistance from Action Cancer, and especially Alicia’s support, greatly eased my journey. Her approach was incredibly personal and intuitive; it felt as though Alicia could effortlessly understand my emotions. I am grateful for everything. Thank you so much.”

Alicia Ferguson, Complementary Therapist at Action Cancer, added: “We are thankful to Walk the Walk for providing us with this funding. Our Therapeutic Services are on offer from Action Cancer House in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland across 16 locations. Thanks to this funding we will be able to extend our reach to more people like Carol who are living with the impacts of cancer.”

To find out more about Action Cancer’s Therapeutic Services which are on offer to people affected by any type of cancer, please visit www.actioncancer.org or call 028 9080 3344.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of breast cancer charity Walk the Walk is pictured with Action Cancer Ambassador Carol Withers and Action Cancer Complementary Therapist Alicia Ferguson to celebrate a grant of £100,000 towards the charity’s Therapeutic Services.

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Eye on Motoring

FOCUS ON DRIVING

The thrill of driving is alive with the latest and last Ford Focus, writes James Stinson.

Motoring with James Stinson

Nothing is certain in life. For decades, the Ford Focus and before that, the Escort, were part of everyday life round these parts. They topped the bestselling car charts most years, socking it to German and Japanese rivals.

But tastes and times have changed. The family hatchback, which was so popular and desirable up until a few years ago, has lost its crown to the everexpanding range of SUV and crossovertype vehicles. Buyers are drawn to their high-riding, spacious, practical and sometimes chunky credentials.

The top three best selling cars in the UK this year – the Ford Puma, Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai – all hail from this genre. Nearly half of all new cars sold around the world last year were SUVs.

So where does that leave the humble family hatchback? Well, they’re not done yet. The VW Golf and Audi A3 are still among the top ten best sellers… However, the writing is on the wall for the once dominant Ford Focus it seems. Ford plans to stop production sometime in 2025 as it transitions its range to all electric.

And there’s something a little sad about that. For while electric cars and SUVs have their merits, they just aren’t as fun to drive. And that used to

be a thing. Carmakers used to revel in making cars that people would enjoy driving. Cars were engineered that way and adverts actively promoted this. It was part of the pay-off for parting with our hard-earned cash when we bought a brand new car. We’d enjoy driving it; it would put a smile on our face… it wasn’t just a way of conveying us and our chattels from A to B. Electric cars are too heavy and SUVs are too tall to deliver a proper, fun driving experience. An electric SUV is worst of all.

The package is complemented by a great mild hybrid 1.0 litre ecoboost petrol engine, which comes with either 125 bhp or 155bhp. Squeezing those numbers out of such a small unit shows just how much engineers are managing to get from the internal combustion engine in what will be their final few years, in new cars at least. ST-Line versions, with stiffened suspension, enhance the experience further.

Go for the full hot hatch ST version and you get lots of

“While electric cars and SUVs have their merits, they just aren’t as fun to drive. And that used to be a thing. Carmakers used to revel in making cars that people would enjoy driving. Cars were engineered that way and adverts actively promoted this.”

The Ford Focus, even if it is the last of the breed, makes the point neatly. It feels low-slung compared to new rivals but that gives it super handling, especially on winding countryside roads where it holds on in corners. It’s also great for town driving, where it feels light and manoeuvrable.

mechanical trickery that make it as adept on the racetrack as it is on the school run.

This Focus pushed another nostalgia button, featuring a six-speed manual gearbox though the range also features a seven-speed automatic.

It’s pretty comfortable too with a finely honed interior. The lower seating position is the biggest difference over SUV-type rivals but visibility is good and there’s decent head and legroom, front and back.

At 391 litres, the boot is a little smaller than that found in its Puma sibling (451 litres) though still plenty big enough. Pop the rear seats down and you get 1,350 litres.

The interior is sleek and high tech, coming with a sizable 13.2-inch infotainment display. It’s bang up to date though the lack of physical controls for things like the air conditioning feels like a step in the wrong direction. It doesn’t have to be that way as Honda, Kia and others have proved.

So, we like driving the focus. It’s well-built, good looking and practical. However, I’m not convinced Ford is all that fussed about it anymore. Prices start from £28,490 which is around £2,000 more than the cheapest Golf. More tellingly, the cheapest Puma, Ford’s still relatively new small crossover, is nearly £3,000 cheaper.

Eye on Motoring

Retro Renault’s electric boost

Motoring with James Stinson

Over the last few years, car makers have been busily ramping up production of new electric cars.

There’s been an explosion of new models and new factories to build them. And a lot of that supply has come on stream over a short time. Unfortunately, demand hasn’t been there to meet that supply.

The main issue is that while electric cars have been a hit with the early adopters - pioneers who are keen and have the wherewithal to embrace electric - the sector has yet to convince the mass adopters out there.

These people are sceptical about the costs and practicalities of owning an electric car and are more than happy with what they’ve got. The fact that most new electric cars are company cars, which enjoy generous tax breaks, rather than private owners underlines the point.

Every technology goes through similar growing pains. It doesn’t mean that electric cars aren’t the future. Governments have given

us no option, but the transition might take a little longer.

Price, range and charging infrastructure are widely seen as the three main barriers to mass adoption. When I first tested an electric car back in 2010, the range was a pretty dismal sub 100 miles. But, depending on how much you spend, some models will now do more than 400 miles on a single charge. Most models fall into the 200–300-mile category.

Charging infrastructure is still very much an issue but is slowly improving. But for people who don’t have driveways, where they can charge at home, this is and will likely remain an issue for some time to come.

For most though, price remains the biggest impediment to going electric. Running costs may be lower but the upfront price premium - which can be 20% and more - is still too much for many buyers.

However, technology and economics will eventually see electric cars prevail. And it’s cars

Not many electric cars have caused as much excitement as the new Renault 5, writes James Stinson.

like this stunning new Renault 5 and the upcoming VW I.D 2 that’ll will lead the charge.

The Renault 5, a reboot of the famous little car that sold millions back in the seventies and eighties, is due to launch with a price tag of €25,000. That is expected to translate to less than £25,000 when it arrives in the UK early next year and will make it one of the most affordable electric cars on the market, undercutting even today’s cheapest, the £26,140 BYD Dolphin.

When the new Renault 5 launches it will only be available with a 52kWh battery that will offer a range of up to 249 miles on a single charge. However, in time the Renault 5 will also be available with a smaller 40kWh battery, which is likely to provide closer to 186 miles of range but will be more affordable.

Expect 80kW DC charging for the smaller battery model and 100kW for the 52kWh version. A 15-80 per cent top-up will take just under half an hour, and it’s likely that UK cars will all come with a heat pump

as standard, which should keep the car’s range more consistent.

The new Renault 5 will be the first all-electric Renault to feature vehicle-to-grid (V2G) compatibility, which will be able to intelligently feed electricity back into your home when electricity tariffs are high, or even into the grid itself if demand requires it.

In the UK, buyers will get to choose from two powerful 121bhp and 148bhp motors. These have 225Nm and 245Nm of torque respectively, and the latter is able to take the R5 from 0-62mph in under eight seconds. That’s for the larger-battery model, which is around 1,500kg. According to Renault, 50-75mph is possible in less than seven seconds and the car will reach a top speed of 93mph.

Public reaction to the new Renault 5 has been enthusiastic to say the least, with more than 50,000 potential buyers putting their names down within days of it breaking cover.

First cars are expected to arrive in the UK early in 2025.

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