Coronavirus Restrictions
This is a crucial time in the fight against coronavirus, with further restrictions in place as part of a two week circuit breaker.
It’s vital that complacency does not creep in and we continue to do everything we can to protect ourselves and those around us. The indiscriminate nature of coronavirus means it remains a significant danger to all of us, particularly to the most vulnerable in our community.
With the festive period just weeks away, now is the time to act with wisdom and I want to reiterate that we must follow the rules and limit our social contacts to reduce the spread.
I know this is a difficult time for everyone but by adhering collectively to the guidance and public health advice we can make a difference.
Shop Local
We’re now just weeks away from Christmas, and I would urge you all to support our local businesses during this ch llenging time.
Council’s Shop, Eat, Enjoy Local message has added significance this year and our traders need our support more than ever.
Our towns and villages have so much to offer, alongside our thriving artisan community, so please consider this as you plan your shopping lists. Many traders have suffered enormously through the pandemic and we must recognise the efforts of our business community who have adapted and worked hard to create safe and welcoming environments.
Causeway Coast and Glens Gift Card
The Causeway Coast and Glens Gift Card is another great asset for the Borough, which will help to keep your spend within the area. We’ve now got around 200 participating businesses signed up to accept the card so please consider it as a gift this Christmas.
If you’re interested in finding out more go to www.causewaycoastandglensgiftcard.co.uk.
Virtual Christmas
While our traditional Christmas events have been significantly affected by the coronavirus pandemic, a virtual programme is now underway with craft workshops, cookery demonstrations, story-telling, and virtual lights switch on events helping to bring people together in a different way.
The full programme is available here.
Ulster Scots Week
I was pleased to have the opportunity to visit the Ullans Centre in Ballymoney and Cuil Rathain Historical & Cultural Centre in Coleraine to hear more about efforts to promote awareness and appreciation of the language during Ulster Scots Week.
Landhead Primary School pupils Farrah McMullan, Rebecca Andrews and Kasey Donnell entertain the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Alderman Mark Fielding during his visit to the Ullans Centre in Ballymoney to mark Ulster Scots Week
My thanks go to the young people who provided an excellent demonstration of traditional music and to all those within the Borough who are committed to preserving this unique linguistic heritage
Lighting up Cloonavin
Cloonavin will be lit up in green on dates in December to show our support for the Samaritans and its Christmas campaign. If you find yourself struggling, please remember you don’t have to face things alone. You can talk to the Samaritans, day or night, on 116 123 or by emailing jo@samaritans.org and these services are available 365 of the year.
On December 3rd, the lights will be purple to show our support for International Day of Disabled People.
LiveSmart Story Map
I would like to congratulate our Environmental Resources and GIS team who have collaborated to create a new LiveSmart story map which is available on our Council website.
The LiveSmart campaign aims to encourage all of us to live more lightly on our planet by taking simple steps to protect our environment. The Story Map really brings this to life and I would encourage you all to check out this resource and give it your full support because collectively we can make positive changes.
View the StoryMap and read the full article here.
Remembrance and Armistice
As with many public events, this year's Acts of Remembrance were impacted by Coronavirus restrictions.
This meant that many residents were unable to pay their respects to service men and women at traditional services.
As Mayor it was an honour to attend the annual Act of Remembrance at Portstewart War Memorial on Remembrance Sunday to lay a wreath on behalf of the citizens of the Borough and take part in a two minute silence at Portstewart War Memorial to mark Armistice Day.
View the full story and gallery here.
Silver Poppies
I was also very privileged to present bespoke silver Poppies of Remembrance to World War II veterans in the Borough this month.
It was an honour to meet the individuals, their family members and carers ahead of Remembrance Sunday and hand deliver these beautiful silver poppies as a token of our gratitude.
