Invest Northern Ireland and the Department for the Economy have announced a £16.3 million investment in a new state of the art Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC), to be based at Ulster University in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast. The Centre will focus on increasing business awareness and adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to […]
Spotlight interview – Aoife Warren, Partner, EY Northern Ireland. Learn more about why EY is creating a NW Hub and the opportunities available.
Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, today announced that it is making a significant investment in a manufacturing facility in Campsie, Derry / Londonderry, creating approximately 200 skilled jobs and contributing to the Northern Ireland economy. Supported by Invest Northern Ireland, Vertiv’s investment will further strengthen Northern Ireland’s highly […]
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council has congratulated the staff at the Tower Museum following their recent World Travellers’ Choice Award for 2023 and welcoming 10,000 visitors so far to the Derry Girls Experience. The coveted Travellers’ Choice Award celebrates businesses that have consistently received great traveller reviews on TripAdvisor over the […]
A special masterclass focusing on the growing medical health and life sciences sector, part of a series of events on regional economic development in the UK & Ireland, has taken place in Derry this week, hosted by Derry City and Strabane District Council. The ‘Joining the Dots’ series is delivered by Connected Places Catapult in […]
FinTrU has announced plans to invest over £20m by 2027, which will see the creation of 300 new jobs in Londonderry and a significant investment in the skills of its Northern Ireland wide staff. Supported by Invest Northern Ireland, the new roles will see FinTrU’s North West operation double in size. Founded in 2013 by […]
Passengers can now fly direct from City of Derry Airport to Edinburgh, on a new service launched by Loganair. The 55-minute direct flight will run three days a week (Tuesday, Friday and Sunday), with additional Thursday and Saturday flights during the peak summer months. Among the guests on the inaugural flight in May was Aidan […]
Derry’s cutting-edge Clinical Translational Research and Innovation Centre, C-TRIC, has showcased its work on International Clinical Trials Day. The award-winning research facility, based at Altnagelvin Hospital, houses the Research and Development Office, Ulster University’s Personalised Medicine Centre, and the Research Nurses Office. It connects patients directly to national and international research opportunities, and aims to […]
Software development company AquaQ Analytics has praised the North West’s “great pool of talent” as it progresses with plans to open a new Derry office.The Belfast-based specialist software, consulting and data services, which employs more than 250 people globally, is recruiting around 40 roles for the new location.AquaQ’s Chief Technology Officer, Jonny Press, said the […]
Alastair Cameron is the Derry-based co-founder of @iamstartacus, a company which informs, inspires and connects startups and entrepreneurs. He is also Head of Startup Programmes at Digital DNA HQ, and he and the Startacus team recently organised BIG IDEAS, an in-person and live-streamed business event as part of Derry and Strabane Enterprise Week 2022. Originally […]
The Stormont Executive has announced £15m worth of investment for a new 152-bed hotel in the Ebrington area of Londonderry. The work will involve the refurbishment of the clocktower and five buildings in the former military base. The first and deputy first ministers visited the development on Thursday to confirm the plans. About £7m is […]
Learning Pool has paid an undisclosed sum for True Office Learning, a firm in the United States which specialises in compliance training. True Office was at one time owned by the New York Stock Exchange. Learning Pool’s chief executive Ben Betts said the deal with True Office Learning is “a significant step” for the Derry-based […]
An exciting new opportunity for local entrepreneurs goes live today, with the launch of the RE:IMAGINE Pop Up Shop initiative, which will be delivered by The Fashion & Textile Design Centre (FTDC) in Derry and BID in Strabane. The initiative is part of the new Start Up Accelerator Programme being delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council, […]
In Your Space Circus (IYSC) is bringing its flagship Circus, Arts and Music Festival, Carnival of Colours to the City Centre for the 14th edition of one of Derry’s favourite headline events. Carnival of Colours, which usually takes place in St Columb’s Park, has up-rooted and relocated to Derry’s stunning City Centre. Taking place on […]
The Cathedral Quarter is preparing to welcome visitors for a weekend of entertainment and animation this September and the opportunity to enjoy a visit to its charming historic streets and shops completely traffic free. Within the area surrounding St Columb’s Cathedral a small network of streets lies tucked within the City’s famous Walls, where a […]
The £250m City Deal for Derry City and Strabane has taken a major step forward with the signing of its Heads of Terms Agreement. The deal, which marks the single largest ever government investment in the region, is aimed at bringing a transformative boost to the local economy and could create up to 7,000 new […]
Government officials and VIPs from China have visited Derry-Londonderry as part of a celebration of Chinese culture marking four key historic anniversaries. Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Michaela Boyle welcomed the major delegation, led by the Chinese Consul General in Belfast Madame Zhang Meifang, as well as cultural performers who led a […]
Claire Canning is Brand Home Manager of award-winning local gin, vodka and whiskey producer The Muff Liquor Company. The drinks brand, which recently entered the US market, counts actor Russell Crowe and singer Ed Sheeran among its celebrity investors.
Claire went to school in Derry and studied Business and Spanish at the University of Manchester before working for major tourist attractions in England, Australia and County Meath. She returned home last summer to take on her current role, overseeing the running of The Muff Liquor Company’s new visitor experience in the village of Muff.
Can you tell us where you lived and worked before moving home?
After graduating from my degree, which included a year living in Spain, I spent a few years back home. I then landed a spot on the graduate programme with Merlin Entertainments – the second-largest operator of visitor attractions and theme parks in the world. I worked across roles in Blackpool Tower, Alton Towers and The London Dungeons before jumping at the chance to move to Australia with the company.
I worked on all sorts of exciting projects in Melbourne and Sydney – from ski resorts to penguin rides at an aquarium. I moved back to Ireland in 2017 to help launch a new distillery and visitor experience for a global spirits company in Meath, while living in Dublin. Then, in summer last year, I made the move home to Derry and joined the team at The Muff Liquor Company.
Why did you decide to move home?
I always wanted to travel and see a bit of the world, and it was a great way to grow both personally and professionally. But I’ve always been a bit of a homebird at heart, and I knew I’d find my way back eventually. When the opportunity with The Muff Liquor Company came up, it just felt right – the perfect mix of returning home and starting a new adventure.
What does your role as Brand Home Manager involve?
My role is all about bringing our brand to life for visitors. I oversee the day-to-day running of our visitor experience, plan and deliver events, and make sure every guest leaves with a real sense of who we are – our story, our roots, and of course, a love for our award-winning products. It’s about creating memorable moments and experiences that connect people in a fun, authentic way.
What does an average day look like?
No two days are ever the same, which is one of the things I love most about the job. I could be planning a cocktail event, meeting with local partners, or working on our social media and behind-the-scenes prep. It’s a real mix of creativity, hospitality, and teamwork.
What’s your favourite aspect of the job?
It has to be the people, whether it’s meeting visitors from all over the world or working with our incredible local team here in Muff. I love seeing guests light up when they hear our story or try one of our spirits for the first time. There’s great pride in sharing a product that’s made with care, rooted in Irish tradition, and full of personality. It’s also inspiring to work with a female founder and CEO, Laura Bonner, who has put so much effort into building the brand and making it a success.
The Muff Liquor Company has some famous fans and investors. Have you met any of them?
Yes, I’ve been lucky enough to meet nearly all of our famous friends. I’ve met Ronan Keating, Ryan Tubridy, and Nathan Carter at our launch party, which was very surreal but also some craic! I didn’t manage to get chatting to Russell [Crowe] with the crowds, but I’ve a feeling he’ll be back… maybe with Ed [Sheeran] in tow! Jimmy Carr paid us a visit in September and the team got to go and see his show in Derry. They’ve all been so genuinely supportive and passionate about the brand, and it’s just brilliant to be part of it.
What did you miss most about the North West when you lived away?
My family and friends. Like a lot of people, Covid really put things into perspective for me and reminded me of what’s important in life, so coming home had been on my mind for a while. There’s a genuine warmth and wit to people here that’s hard to find anywhere else. I also missed the slower pace, the scenery, and all the little things that make home home.
Has much changed since you last lived here?
Definitely. There’s a real buzz about the North West – more businesses, more events, more opportunities. But at the same time, it still feels like home. It’s managed to grow without losing its heart.
What do you enjoy doing when you aren’t working?
I love getting outdoors, whether it’s a walk on the beach or grabbing a coffee and catching up with friends. I’m always on the lookout for new local spots to try, and if there’s live music involved, even better. Now that I’m based at home, I still get to travel when I can, which is the best of both worlds.
What message would you have to other people considering a move back to the North West?
Go for it. There’s nothing worse than feeling unsettled, and I’m so glad I made the move. The North West has so much to offer – great energy, a strong sense of community, and so much right on your doorstep.
From major international brands to award-winning local start-ups, multiple firms in Derry and Strabane are currently recruiting for a wide range of professional roles.
Leading insurance software implementation firm Alchemy – which recently unveiled its new headquarters at Derry’s Ebrington Plaza – plans to increase its headcount to more than 250 employees in the next three years, and is now hiring senior technical analysts.
Professional services firm EY is set to join Alchemy in Ebrington Plaza later this year, after selecting Derry as the location for its new North West regional office.
ChallengeCurve, the software testing and quality assurance company based in Ebrington Square’s AMP building, is also looking to strengthen its team in Derry. The firm is on the outlook for two experienced personnel for the roles of Head of Test Automation and Principal Consultant, and will be publishing formal role descriptions during the summer.
Meanwhile, the US infrastructure solutions and services company Vertiv continues its commitment to the North West, hiring for a number of skilled roles in its Campsie site.
There are managerial positions currently advertised at Seagate, Learning Pool, MetaCompliance and many more firms in the North West. Or if video games are your passion, there’s even a Principal Engineer vacancy with Derry-based Hypixel Studios.
The signing of the £290m City Deal last year has the potential to bring more than 6,000 new jobs by 2033 and millions of pounds of investment over the next decade.
Work is also underway on transformative public realm projects set to further boost quality of life in the city and district, by creating high quality public space and improved landscapes.
More job opportunities and vacancies in a wide variety of firms can also been found on the Invest Derry Strabane website.
The North West is taking centre stage in financial technology innovation, with a RegTech Forum and conference hosted at the historic Great Hall on Ulster University’s Magee Campus.
The event, supported by Invest Northern Ireland, Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC), and Ulster University is being attended by the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Alastair King, and over 100 industry leaders, regulators, academics, and innovators. It will showcase the North West’s potential to lead in regulatory and supervisory technology, addressing pressing global challenges in governance, risk, and compliance.
This event underscores the North West’s potential to become a global leader in RegTech innovation.
Conor Murphy, Minister for the Economy
John Healy, Chair of Invest NI: “This event is a significant milestone in establishing the North West as a premier destination for fintech investment and innovation. With our cross border connections and growing talent pipeline, Northern Ireland is in an excellent position to take the lead in addressing the complex regulatory challenges of the financial sector. We are excited to welcome key stakeholders from across the UK and Ireland to witness this potential firsthand.”
Economy Minister, Conor Murphy, highlighted the significance of the RegTech Forum taking place in the North West: “This event underscores the North West’s potential to become a global leader in RegTech innovation. By harnessing the region’s strategic advantages, all-island expertise and strong partnerships between Invest NI, Council, industry, academia, and regulators, we are building a foundation for transformative innovation in financial regulation. Today’s event not only highlights these unique strengths but also showcases what can be achieved through collaboration on a global stage.”
The Lord Mayor of the City of London Corporation, Alastair King said: “It was a pleasure to attend and speak at the RegTech Forum. The appetite for growth and innovation was palpable and the City Corporation is honoured to be a part of it.
We are excited to welcome key stakeholders from across the UK and Ireland to witness this potential firsthand.
John Healy, Chairman of Board, Invest NI
“This is a truly exciting time for Northern Ireland, with the region beginning to emerge a leader in the RegTech sector, playing a huge part in driving the UK’s financial and professional services sector – we will continue to work closely with the region to build on its brilliant work across the UK.”
Earlier in the day Alderman King was officially welcomed to the Guildhall by the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, who said it was an exciting opportunity to discuss the region’s growing proposition. “I was delighted to welcome Alderman King to the city today, where we discussed our priorities as civic leaders, as well as common interests in business and innovation. I feel that now is a significant time of opportunity for the North West with its unique positioning on the EU-UK border, combined with the ground breaking research and development work that is being delivered locally, as well as existing expertise available, across multiple regulated sectors.”
Northern Ireland’s largest airline, easyJet, has announced the launch of a new route from City of Derry airport to Birmingham.
The new route will be the third new service easyJet has added to its City of Derry network in the last 12 months, following the introduction of new flights to Edinburgh and Liverpool, helping provide even stronger domestic connectivity between Northern Ireland and key cities across the UK.
Flights to Birmingham are scheduled to take off on 1 September 2025, with the choice of flying on Monday and Friday throughout the year, perfect for those looking for a staycation, visiting friends and family, or when doing business.
Birmingham offers much more than the setting for the iconic Peaky Blinders series – a vibrant city with a blend of historic and cultural landmarks, a bustling music and shopping scene as well as being home to the famous Cadbury World.
easyJet has also extended its winter routes from City of Derry airport to operate throughout the summer, providing key connectivity and more choices to Liverpool and Edinburgh year-round.
Seats are now on sale at easyJet.com and via the app from £24.99*.
Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, said:
“It is fantastic to be able to offer yet another new route from City of Derry to Birmingham which will appeal to leisure and business customers alike.
“We are proud to be the largest airline in Northern Ireland and by continuing to strengthen our network at City of Derry we are providing our customers in the Northwest with even greater choice and connectivity, all with great value fares and friendly service, and we look forward to welcoming them on board.”
Steve Frazer, Managing Director at City of Derry Airport said:
“We are thrilled to expand our route map with easyJet and provide another much-needed service for our local catchment area across Derry City and Strabane, the Causeway Coast and Glens, Donegal and beyond.
“A direct connection to Birmingham has previously proved to be one of the most popular routes from our Northwest gateway, particularly for those commuting to work, study or visit family and friends, and we are delighted that easyJet will be adding to their existing services to Liverpool & Edinburgh, which will make them the biggest carrier by volume operating from City of Derry Airport.”
“As part of our long-term commitment to support and develop the Northwest economy and tourism sector, we hope this new service will help bring new inbound investment opportunities and a new tourism market from the UK midlands area into the Walled City and surrounding areas.”
For more information on easyJet’s network from Northern Ireland and to book visit easyJet.com.
The Economy Minister and the Vice-Chancellor announced the purchase of Timber Quay as part of the expansion of Ulster University’s Derry~Londonderry Campus.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald today said that land necessary to drive forward to the expansion of Ulster University’s Derry~Londonderry Campus to achieve 10,000 students has now been acquired by the Department and Ulster University.
During a visit to the campus the Minister and the Vice-Chancellor announced the purchase of the Timber Quay office block, which follows the recent acquisition of sites along Queens Quay.
Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, Prof Paul Bartholomew said:
“Due to recent rapid growth in student numbers at Ulster University Derry~Londonderry, our campus is currently at maximum capacity, and we have a pressing need for more space. The space that we stand in today at Timber Quay will be quickly transformed into teaching and learning environments in time to welcome new and returning students in September 2025. The additional land that we have acquired in partnership with DfE around Queen’s Quay will help us to add additional spaces in the future.
“We will continue to work with our partners to realise growth on this campus and are grateful to our co-investors in the Department for the Economy for their financial support to ensure that together, we are delivering for Derry~Londonderry.”
Speaking after a tour of the sites, the Minister, said:
“Since the Magee Expansion Taskforce was setup last year my Department, in partnership with Ulster University, have contributed almost £21.5m of capital expenditure to support the planned growth. The acquisition of the Timber Quay building will itself allow Ulster University to accommodate 375 new students in the next academic year.
“This purchase, along with the additional lands secured along Queen’s Quay, means we can drive forward to reach 10,000 students at Magee by 2032.”
Chair of the Magee Taskforce, Stephen Kelly said:
“Today’s announcement ensures that momentum is maintained to deliver on the 10,000 minimum target agreed in the Programme for Government. The University have purchased these properties from local owners who are as determined as all of us in seeing Ulster University’s expansion plans meeting the city’s economic, cultural, and social ambitions.”
Teaching more than 5,300 students in the last academic year, the Ulster University Derry~Londonderry campus is home to over 120 programmes, with more being added annually. The thriving campus is a hub for health sciences, creative industries, computing and engineering, business, and the arts.
This year, the University was ranked top 10 in the UK for five of the courses taught in Derry~Londonderry (Speech and Language Therapy, Information Systems and Management, Radiography, Physiotherapy and Health Studies), and the institution is the UK and Ireland University of the Year, Times Higher Education.
Ulster University has welcomed the appointment of McAdam Design as the Integrated Consultancy Team and AtkinsRealis as Consultant Project Management team for the Shared Island teaching block in Derry~Londonderry.
Sharing a glimpse of what designs for the teaching and student services building might look like with an artist’s impression image, the University is marking the appointments as a step forward in its drive to expand higher education provision in the North West.
Announced in 2023, the €44.5 million investment by the Government of Ireland through the Shared Island Fund is supported by circa £7m of Ulster University reserves to construct the new block, which will be situated off the Northland Road adjacent to the library.
Providing additional lecture and seminar spaces, computer labs and other social areas, the building will contribute significantly to the campus capacity for teaching and research activity and builds on Ulster University’s commitment to Growth and Regeneration projects that deliver more students, jobs, and economic impact for the region.
This investment from the Government of Ireland reflects, in part, the teaching and research cooperation between Ulster University and Atlantic Technological University in Donegal, while also enabling the four North West Tertiary Education Cluster institutions to work more closely together, facilitating a more seamless offering of further and higher education in the region.
The next step in the process, a pre-application notice submitted to Derry City and Strabane District council, will be completed in due course.
Ulster University Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew said:
“I am delighted to welcome the appointment of the consultant teams whose role will be to undertake the planning, design and project management of the new Shared Island teaching block. This announcement marks another step forward in our commitment to campus expansion in Derry~Londonderry and widening access to higher education in the North West.
“While the design shared today is only an initial concept, it is exciting to be able to share the potential that exists for our new spaces in Derry~Londonderry. We know the new building will enhance what is an already thriving campus for health sciences, creative industries, computing, engineering, business and the arts and will promote a creative, innovative and vibrant environment that will inspire and add value to our core activities of teaching, learning, research and innovation.”
.Visitors from the Canada UK Chamber of Commerce Office and the Government of Alberta enjoyed a roundtable discussion to learn about what Ulster University has to offer and explore future collaboration.
Representatives from Ulster University welcomed Nicholas Greenwood from the Government of Alberta, and Jaspreet Grewal, Director and Co-Chair of the Canada UK Chamber of Commerce and BioAlberta, and CEO of biotech research organisation AxialBridge, for a two-day visit to its Derry~Londonderry and Belfast campuses.
A Canadian delegation previously came to Belfast in April 2024, and this visit allowed for more in-depth exploration of life and health sciences opportunities, discussion around potential trade and partnership opportunities and the practicalities of the Windsor Framework. During the delegation’s time in Derry~Londonderry, representatives from Derry and Strabane District Council were also able to find out about specific opportunities for the North West arising from City and Growth Deals.
Professor Victor Gault, Associate Dean Research and Innovation-Life and Health Sciences at Ulster University, said:
“It is with great pleasure that we welcome Nick Greenwood, Trade, Investment, and Office Coordinator for the Government of Alberta, to our Derry~Londonderry and Belfast campuses. Our longstanding and meaningful partnership with AxialBridge continues to thrive, and we are delighted to reengage with Jaspreet Grewal in her capacity as Board Director and Co-Chair of the Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce and BioAlberta.
“We are proud to showcase our current capabilities and share our vision for the future, highlighting our transformative growth projects. These include the School of Medicine, the Centre for Food and Drug Discovery, and the Centre for Digital Healthcare Technologies, which will be delivered from investments through City and Growth Deals and the Inclusive Futures Fund.
“Ulster University is enthusiastic about collaborating with Canadian BioTech, MedTech, and Pharmaceutical companies to further contribute to the economic development of the region. Events like this enable us to increase the capacity for clinical trials and attract companies into Northern Ireland. We note thanks to The Executive Office, Department of Business and Trade, and HIRANI for coordinating this event.”
Jaspreet Grewal, Director and Co-Chair, Canada UK Chamber of Commerce and BioAlberta, and CEO of AxialBridge, commented:
“The purpose of this visit by the Government of Alberta is to support AxialBridge’s increased activities in Northern Ireland, in particular with Ulster University, and to learn more about the country’s life science, tech, and innovation ecosystems. We would also be delighted to identify future areas of collaboration and partnership.
“In September 2023, AxialBridge and BioAlberta solidified a significant partnership with the NIHR (National Institute for Health and Care Research) to launch their Virtual Office programme – their first international office in Canada. Through this partnership, we aim to achieve impactful and bilateral collaborative initiatives in the life sciences between Canada and the United Kingdom. As such, we are delighted to explore partnership opportunities within the health and life sciences in Northern Ireland and beyond.”
Nicholas Greenwood, Trade, Investment and Office Coordinator, Government of Alberta, added:
“It’s a great pleasure to be invited to Northern Ireland for the first time and to meet so many different experts from across the region. The main focus of the trip is Life Sciences but I’m also keen to explore the opportunities across the thriving tech and energy sector as well as understanding the investment funding and local structural framework. It’s clear that there are plenty of opportunities for collaboration between Alberta and Northern Ireland.”
The delegation continued their visit at Ulster University’s Belfast campus on 25 March, and later met with representatives from InvestNI, Belfast City Council and Queen’s University, Belfast.
Funded by the UK’s AI Security Institute, the research will develop ethical guidelines and policy recommendations about the adoption of AI across the courts system.
Researchers at Ulster University’s newly established Centre for Legal Technology (CLT) are set to explore the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in judicial decision making.
Supported by £200,000 in funding from the UK’s AI Security Institute, the project will examine how AI could be responsibly integrated into judicial decision-making while ensuring fairness, transparency, and judicial independence.
Through collaboration with members of the judiciary, policymakers, legal professionals, industry and AI experts, the 12-month scheme will develop ethical guidelines and policy recommendations to ensure that AI adoption in judicial systems aligns with the rule of law and human rights standards.
The initial phase will focus on the Courts of England and Wales, exploring how AI systems could support judicial processes without undermining core legal principles.
Led by John Keers BL, an Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) expert and Director of the CLT, the project represents a significant breakthrough for Northern Ireland’s legal technology sector, marking its emergence as a key player in AI ethics and judicial innovation.
The groundbreaking AI research project is one of only 20 successful bids out of 451 applications to the AI Security Institute’s Systemic AI Safety Grants Programme. First announced at the Seoul AI Summit, the programme aims to increase societal resilience to AI-related risks so its benefits can be fully realised.
Each awarded seed grants of up to £200,000, the 20 projects will involve independent research focused on safeguarding the societal systems and critical infrastructure into which AI is being deployed.
John Keers BL, Director of Ulster University’s Centre for Legal Technology, said:
“While AI is not currently used in judicial decision-making, it is vital to develop ethical and regulatory safeguards now to ensure any future adoption aligns with the values of justice. This project’s selection by the UK’s AI Secuity Institute underscores the growing role Northern Ireland is playing in advancing legal technology and shaping the future of the justice system.”
This initiative highlights the ambition and innovation driving Northern Ireland’s legal technology community and its potential to make a meaningful contribution to the future of justice in the UK and beyond.
In a move to invest in the future of the North-West and support local talent, Gray’s Communications has announced a new scholarship to fully fund an MBBS medical degree at Ulster University’s Derry~Londonderry campus.
Covering the full cost of tuition and living expenses for the recipient throughout their studies, the scholarship aims to encourage aspiring doctors from the North-West to study and build their careers locally. This initiative supports the region’s projected growth, driven by progress in both the local City Deal and the expansion of the Derry~Londonderry Campus. The investment not only highlights the growing importance of the campus for the North-West region but also aims to help address the challenges of medical recruitment and retention locally.
Chris Gray, Chief Executive of Gray’s Communications, said:
“Derry has always had a wealth of talent and potential, but too often, our young people feel they need to leave to find opportunities elsewhere. By funding this scholarship, we’re making a clear statement that there is a future here, and we are committed to retaining the region’s brightest minds. This initiative also closely aligns with the NI Executive’s call for universities and private businesses to collaborate in building a stronger society. We’re proud to play our part in delivering that vision.”
Malachy O’Neill, Ulster University Director of Regional Engagement, said:
“Gray’s Communications shares our vision for a pipeline of medical talent for the North-West and we would like to offer our sincere thanks for their generous support for one of our graduate entry medical students on our Derry~Londonderry campus. This scholarship will help a future medic to overcome the financial barrier that some face in realising their vocation in medicine. This announcement is particularly apt as we prepare to graduate our first cohort of doctors in Summer this year, many of who are going on to further training posts in the region.
“If you are an offer holder, or if you know an offer holder who might meet the criteria then please encourage them to apply for this scholarship. You can find out more about the programme and this scholarship opportunity at an applicant webinar on 17 June.”
Gray’s Communications, a marketing, communications, and design agency based in Derry city centre, has a longstanding track record of supporting regional growth. Over the past eight years, the company has contributed more than £5million to the local economy through salaries and contractor fees.
Ulster University’s Graduate-Entry Medical Programme is based at the Derry~Londonderry campus and is open to graduates from a wide range of science and non-science backgrounds.
January marked a milestone for the North West region as the Strabane Positive Energy District (PED) Local Green Deal (LGD) was officially signed. This pioneering commitment paves the way for a £2 million injection of funding facilitated through the Derry~Londonderry and Strabane Region City Deal.
Officiating at the official signing was the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr along with representatives from the EU Intelligent Cities Challenge and a number of stakeholders who have been involved in supporting the development of the PED LGD including Ulster University’s Centre for Sustainable Technologies, who have produced a Concept Report for the Development of the PED, ERNACT, NWRC,WHSCT, Strabane BID, Strabane Growth Partnership, NIHE, EA, NIE, Evolve, BT and Translink.
Derry City and Strabane District Council and Donegal County Council have been collaborating together as the NW City Region, and are one of 64 locations across Europe who have successfully bid to participate in the EU Intelligent Cities Challenge. As part of this initiative the NW City Region has leveraged the support of leading local and EU experts to support the development of their LGDs.
A LGD is a local tailor-made action plan to accelerate and scale up a locations green and digital transition. It builds on and joins existing strategies – e.g. sustainable energy and climate action plans, circular economy plans, resilience or economic development plans – legislation, market, and financial incentives into a coherent approach to help improve economic competitiveness, social resilience and quality of life.
Strabane’s Local Green Deal seeks to create a living laboratory in Strabane Town centre with a key focus on energy generation, distribution, storage, forecasting and balancing across different energy sources including local businesses, residential, public and community sector properties.
The signing of the PED LGD today is a significant commitment by Council and its partners to work together to maximise opportunities to embrace energy efficiency measures, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and actively manage renewable energy production.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr said: “This is a very exciting and innovative initiative for Council and its partners. As we signed the Derry Londonderry and Strabane City Region City Deal which includes plans to transform and redevelop the canal basin area of Strabane, we realised that this was the perfect opportunity for us to bring forward this initiative. The creation of a PED in Strabane fits perfectly with our goals and objectives for City Deal in terms of sustainability and we are delighted that as part of our development plans for Strabane we can now include energy efficiency measures across the proposed three public service buildings, retrofits of nearby town centre buildings and the deployment of renewable energy generation and storage infrastructure.
I look forward to seeing this showcase project implemented and the benefits being rolled out across Strabane including reduced carbon emissions, decrease in town centre air pollution, security of local energy supply, reduced energy bill costs, and economic growth through cutting edge innovation”.
Saverio Romeo, Lead EU expert said: “The collaboration among local business and academic stakeholders, Derry and Strabane City Council, and the EU Intelligent Cities Challenge team in the North West City Region has set the stone for an ambitious project that will make Strabane a best practice for energy efficiency and sustainable living in the region and beyond. It is a milestone for Strabane, a milestone only possible because experts, professionals, academics, business owners, policy makers have worked together for the public good.”
The City of London Corporation’s Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, was in Derry in Feb to attend the launch of the MATRIX NI report and a number of engagements to build on the North West’s strong connections with the City of London.
Matrix, Northern Ireland’s Science and Industry Advisory Panel, supported by the Department for the Economy, launched a new report exploring opportunities for the application of regulatory technologies (RegTech).
The report finds that Northern Ireland, with its skilled workforce and strong academic institutions, is strongly positioned to help businesses navigate an increasingly complex regulatory environment. This can be achieved by the development of innovative solutions to streamline compliance processes, enhancing transparency, while mitigating any risks in the financial services sector
Mr Hayward and his delegation were welcomed to the city by the Chief Executive of Derry City and Strabane District Council, John Kelpie, who took the opportunity to discuss shared interests in business, innovation and culture. The significant work being done by the Council and its delivery partners to bring forward an ambitious suite of innovative City Deal projects that will create jobs, attract investment and growth to the region was also discussed.
Mr Kelpie said it was a great honour to welcome Mr Hayward to the region to talk about the opportunities to promote the RegTech proposition, harnessing the city region’s unique cross-jurisdictional location and collaborative partnerships and to build on existing relationships between the two cities and regions.
He said: “We have extremely strong links with the City of London and it’s hugely encouraging to see Mr Hayward and his delegation taking time out of their schedule to visit our city and meet with industry leaders to hear about the excellent work that is being done here in terms of attracting global investment and helping home-grown success stories compete internationally. The City of London Corporation is a global financial and professional services capital that drives the UK’s economy and the sector is of huge importance to this region.”
During his visit, Mr Hayward met with RegTech Supercluster representatives to hear at first-hand about the collaborative work being done on the ground to develop the region’s RegTech offering.
It was also an opportunity to provide the delegation with an update on the ‘Innovation Challenge’ programme that was launched late last year with the City of London Corporation as a strategic partner, to encourage innovators to develop creative technology solutions to tackle cross border regulatory and compliance challenges.
A key element of the visit was to discuss with key stakeholders the key findings of the Matrix NI report and how to bring forward its recommendations.
The launch provided the opportunity for the RegTech Supercluster to discuss how it can support the Department to shape the RegTech proposition and working with key stakeholders generate economic growth and competitive advantage across the region.
The delegation met with senior officials at the Ulster University to discuss their expansion plans and to receive an update on the work being carried out by the Task Force and key research and development projects.
Mr Heyward also met with representatives from the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce before taking a tour of the local Seagate plant at Springtown and meeting with Chief Operating Officer with EY, Jonathan Williamson, to discuss their future plans for development at Ebrington Plaza and their wider growth across the region.
Derry cemented it’s reputation as a major destination to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in as tens of thousands of people packed the city centre to the rafters the city’s annual parade.
Over 800 performers took part in the North West Carnival Initiative’s procession through the streets that featured sports clubs, dance troupes and community organisations all celebrating the theme of Flowers, Fur and Feathers.
Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, joined St Patrick to lead the procession which began inside the walls and travelled down through Shipquay Street past the local landmarks of the Guildhall and the Peace Bridge and concluded on Strand Road.
“What a wonderful day in our city centre,” said Mayor Barr. “Leading the Derry St Patrick’s Day parade along with hundreds of talented young people is an experience I will never forget.
“I want to acknowledge all the hard work that went into this year’s St Patrick’s Day festivities, both from the Council team, the North West Carnival Initiative and all their statutory and community partners.
“But most of all I want to thank the thousands of local people who lined the streets to watch the parade and created an atmosphere like no other.
“Nobody throws a party better than our Council area and we proved that again today.”
Other highlights of the day’s festivities included live music at the main stage in the Guildhall Square, which had people dancing in the streets.
The Craft Village was also buzzing with live traditional music and Irish dancing, while Derry’s Guildhall was packed with revellers enjoying the traditional Irish music and céilí dance session.
Head of Culture with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Aeidin McCarter, said early indications were of another record breaking crowd in attendance.
“Thank you to our Festival and Events team and all our partners for co-ordinating another successful St Patrick’s Day celebration.
“A lot of unseen work takes place behind the scenes to make sure an event of this scale runs smoothly but it is all worthwhile when we see thousands of people having a positive experience.
“We will process the data over the coming days but early indications are that we have surpassed 30,000 spectators for a second successive year which we are delighted about.
“Visitors from outside the Council area look high as well as we continue to build our reputation as a venue to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in.”
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