Sinn Féin sensationalists playing to the gallery

Larne Ulster Unionist Councillor Mark McKinty has accused local Sinn Féin representatives of being "sensationalists" and "playing to the gallery" following comments made in the run-up to last week's Royal Black parade in Carnlough.

This comes following last week's statements by Sinn Féin Larne Councillor James McKeown and Oliver McMullan MLA suggesting "tensions" were high in the area. "These comments are what cause tensions to be raised," stated Cllr McKinty, "given that RBP 377, as any other Preceptory, have a long history connected to the local area, and are keen to hold a peaceful parade".

"SF's statements are playing to the gallery. RBP 377 draws members from the area, and are sensitive to local issues. Cllr McKeown and Mr McMullan are seeking to create a problem here so they can get publicity off the back of it."

 "Clutching at straws, SF have now suggested the choice of band is wrong. The local bands were unavailable to parade, so another local band agreed to help the lodge. This happens all over the country, so I can't understand why Cllr McKeown would be so "shocked"!"

"As was to be expected, the parade passed off peacfully, with the band and Sir Knights parading with dignity and respect, despite obviously concerted attempts by a small number of protesters to provoke a reaction" said Cllr. McKinty. "A fantastic day was had in Larne: the sun was shining, the streets were lined 5 or 6 people deep at times, and I congratulate the organisers for their sterling work."

Larne Apprentice Launch

As part of the Larne Youth Opportunities Programme LEDCOM and Larne Borough Council are organising the Larne Apprentice Competition. This unique competition is designed to help young people between the aged of 18-25 gain new work skills within a business environment.

I was pleased to attend the launch of the Larne Apprentice Competition with my Ulster Unionist colleague Cllr Maureen Morrow. We both believe that this is a great opportunity to give local young people the encouragement and experience needed early in their careers. We also look forward to taking an active role in the programme and closely following progress.

The competition will conclude with a final with special guest “ Jedi” Jim Eastwood from the Apprentice TV programme. The competition is also being supported by the Larne Times, where you can keep up to date with progress.

The competition will enable young people to make contact with business owners and leaders in the greater Larne area. It has been designed to develop and assess the participants using a balanced scorecard approach to develop  business acumen, attitude, social understanding and leadership.

The competition is being supported by local businesses giving voluntary time and business experience to help the candidates throughout the 8 weeks of the initiative as well as enhancing their future career prospects.
 Members of the Larne Traders Forum and member companies of the Business in the Community Business Leadership Network are supporting the Larne Apprentice Competition.

The benefits from taking part in the Larne Apprentice Competition include :
• The winner will receive an iPad with the runner up receiving a tablet computer, with other prizes for all who complete the competition
• Certificates will also be given to all completing participants
• Up to 10 hours one to one mentoring from local business representatives to assist with  career development.
• It will bring participants into contact with employers with the potential to advance employment opportunities.
• The Larne Apprentice Competition is designed to be fun and interactive. Participation will enhance participants CVs and their ability to compete for jobs.

Information on the Larne Apprentice Competition is available from Audrey Murray at LEDCOM, tel.: 2826 9973 or audreymurray@ledcomwbp.org

Information can also be downloaded from www.chainhr.co.uk and www.ledcom.org