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Gilford Castle gains new life as a guesthouse, offering ten unique rooms and improved accessibility. The project, approved by planning officers, preserves the castles historical character while opening it up to more visitors. The Victorian Scottish-Baronial style estate, purchased in 2020, will now welcome guests to its beautiful surroundings.

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Gilbert-Ash, a Belfast-based construction firm, unveils new Dublin headquarters, signaling expansion in Irish capital. Recent projects include citizenM Hotel, Premier Inn at Twilfit House, and Clerys department store redevelopment. Managing director, Ray Hutchinson, emphasizes commitment to growth in hospitality, workspace, and residential sectors.

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Belfast Selected as Host City for Euro 2028, Boosting Northern Ireland EconomyBelfast, Northern Ireland, has been chosen as one of the host cities for the Euro 2028 football tournament, a significant development for the citys tourism industry. The Irish Football Association will receive millions in funding to cover hosting expenses. Belfast joins other UK and Ireland host cities like London, Glasgow, and Dublin. First Minister designate Emma Little-Pengelly and Irish FA chief executive Patrick Nelson expressed enthusiasm, anticipating a boost to the economy and job creation. The tournament is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors and generate millions in revenue.<...

Man Charged with Terrorism Offenses Linked to Manchester Synagogue AttackA 31-year-old man, Mohammad Bashir, has been charged with assisting the Manchester synagogue attacker, Jihad Al-Shamie, with earlier reconnaissance. Bashir faces four charges, including sharing online material that encouraged acts of terrorism. He was arrested at Manchester Airport and is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Friday.

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Nigel Farages controversial claims about Glasgows schoolchildren spark debate on immigration and cultural identity. Farage asserted that one in three children in Glasgow schools do not speak English as their first language, labeling it as the cultural smashing of Glasgow. Scottish First Minister John Swinney strongly condemned Farages remarks, labeling them as quite simply racist. The comments have ignited a debate about the integration of diverse communities within Scotland, with the Scottish government viewing linguistic diversity as a positive asset.

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Liberal Democrats urge mandatory CCTV in nurseries following Vincent Chans conviction for sexual abuse of young children at a Bright Horizons nursery in London. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson expresses concerns about potential misuse of CCTV footage, while an expert advisory group is appointed to develop guidelines for its safe and effective use. Victims families receive support and plan legal action against the nursery.

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The family of Dawn Sturgess, who died from Novichok poisoning, criticizes the public inquirys final report for lacking preventive recommendations. The report, led by Lord Hughes, blames Russian military intelligence for the incident but fails to provide actionable advice. The family expresses concern over the absence of protective measures and seeks real change to prevent future tragedies.

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North England residents jolted by magnitude 3.3 earthquake, leaving many confused and alarmed. The epicenter was near Silverdale, Lancashire, with no reported injuries or damage.

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Northern Ireland business leaders strongly believe in AIs potential for growth, yet only a third plan to allocate significant budgets to it. Confidence in keeping pace with AI development is lower than in the Republic and globally. Despite this, nine out of ten see AI as a competitive advantage. Cybercrime, supply chain resilience, and climate risk are top concerns, with Northern Ireland investing more in digital risk resilience. A cautious optimism prevails, emphasizing the need for balanced investments in cybersecurity and broader supply chain protection.

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Downing Street rejects dictator claims as PM Sunak faces backlash over delayed mayoral elections. The government postpones four mayoral elections until 2028, sparking criticism and uncertainty for devolution arrangements. Local leaders and political parties express disappointment and concern over the unexpected delay.

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A new UK inquiry holds Putin morally responsible for British womans death, linking it to the Skripal poisoning, and accusing Russian agents of recklessness in deploying a deadly nerve agent in a public area.

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Federal Bureau of Investigation Arrests Suspect in 2021 Pipe Bomb Case: A major breakthrough in the investigation into the pipe bombs placed in Washington, D.C., on January 5, 2021, has led to an arrest. This marks the first time a suspect has been identified in the nearly five-year-old case. The suspect is a man, but no further details have been released. The pipe bombs were found near the offices of the Democratic and Republican national committees and had the potential to be lethal. Despite receiving hundreds of tips and reviewing tens of thousands of video files, investigators struggled to identify the suspect...

Scotlands First Minister, John Swinney, is urging the UK Government to secure a deal exempting Scotch whisky from American tariffs, which are costing the industry around £4 million per week. Swinney has personally engaged with former US President Donald Trump and expects the UK Government to take decisive action.

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Education Secretary vows to strengthen child safety measures following nursery workers sexual abuse case. Chan, a forty-five-year-old, admitted to abusing young children in North London. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges and is scheduled for sentencing on January twenty-third. The Education Secretary expressed horror and assured justice will be served. Families of victims are receiving support and questioning how Chan was able to commit these offenses. Bright Horizons nursery, where Chan worked, is conducting a review of safeguarding procedures.

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In a fiery Dáil session, opposition parties, led by Sinn Féin, criticized the governments handling of the cost of living crisis, particularly as Christmas approaches. Tánaiste and Finance Minister Simon Harris faced tough questions, especially from Sinn Féins finance spokesperson, Pearse Doherty, who accused Harris of broken promises. Harris, who had previously pledged to put money back in peoples pockets, was challenged on his past actions and the governments economic plans. The debate highlighted deep divisions over economic policy and the ongoing challenges many citizens face with rising costs.

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Unidentified military-style drones breached Dublins no-fly zone, potentially targeting Ukrainian President Zelenskyys plane. The drones, likely launched from the northeast, flew for over two hours, raising concerns about a potential hybrid attack. Authorities are investigating the incident, which mirrors recent drone incursions in Europe. The event underscores Irelands security preparedness concerns.

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The King and Queen hosted a state banquet at Windsor Castle for the German president and his wife, marking their three-day visit. The lavish dinner featured a delicious meal and fine wines, attended by notable German figures. The visit included a showcase of charities, with both couples participating in a game of snakes and ladders and creating symbolic handprints. The German guests expressed gratitude for the hospitality, describing the experience as generous and memorable.

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Former EU foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, resigns from European studies institute amidst fraud investigation. She was detained for questioning and released, with the investigation ongoing. This development underscores the scrutiny faced by high-profile figures in European institutions.

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At a Belfast City Council meeting, community representatives from Donegall Pass expressed concerns about drug use and antisocial behavior in Reverend Robert Bradford Park. Ernie Purvis from the Donegall Pass Residents’ Association requested CCTV installation, highlighting the parks central location and importance as a green space for local children. Peter McDonald of the Donegall Pass Community Forum emphasized the parks significance, noting the areas limited open space and high rates of mental health issues. Following pleas for action, the council agreed to a city-wide report on park safety and CCTV needs, to be finalized in January.

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Four men have pleaded guilty to charges related to a $35 million cocaine importation attempt in Courtmacsherry, west Cork. The men, Mark Doherty, Levent Gulay, Christopher Hibbett, and Ben Sandford, face five charges including possession, intent to sell, and importation. Two were also charged with using specific phones for criminal offenses, while Sandford and Hibbett faced charges for possessing a RIB used in drug trafficking. The DPP agreed to send them to the Circuit Court for sentencing, with free legal aid granted. All four remain in custody and are scheduled for sentencing in February 2023.

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IFI unable to identify polluter in River Blackwater incident, highlighting need for robust environmental regulations.

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The United Kingdom has imposed sanctions on Russias GRU military intelligence agency following an independent inquiry into the death of Dawn Sturgess, who was exposed to the nerve agent Novichok in 2018. The inquiry found that the GRU was responsible for the poisoning of former spy Sergei Skripal, his daughter Yulia, and police officer Nick Bailey, as well as cyber operations targeting Yulia and the attempted murder of her and her father. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the Kremlins disregard for innocent lives and emphasized the UKs commitment to defending European security and standing up to Putins regime.

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Firefighters swiftly rescue one from flat fire in Carryduff, demonstrating dedication and bravery in managing the accidental blaze.

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Flu cases surge early in Northern Ireland, health officials urge vaccination

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Join our How I Spend My Money series! Share your financial week with us for a week in December. No judgment, just understanding. Email your diary to money@thejournal.ie. Your story matters in painting a clearer picture of current economic realities.

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Northern Irelands Agriculture Minister, Andrew Muir, has clarified that culling is not the planned response to the recent bluetongue outbreak. Two confirmed cases and forty-four suspected cases have been found near Bangor, County Down, with a temporary control zone established. Muir emphasized that bluetongue poses no risk to public health or food safety, and it primarily spreads through midges. Authorities are investigating the outbreak and collaborating with UK and Irish counterparts. Farmers are urged to follow restrictions and report concerns. Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer David Kyle confirmed no intention to cull animals, as they do not pose a significant risk...

Russian President Vladimir Putin has rejected key aspects of a US peace plan for Ukraine, complicating diplomatic efforts to end the war. Despite intense negotiations, sticking points remain, including land concessions and security guarantees. Putin met with US envoys, describing the talks as difficult work. Meanwhile, US special envoys are set to meet with Ukraines lead negotiator in Miami. Putins remarks have been met with skepticism from European leaders. Amidst these talks, Russian attacks on civilian areas in Ukraine continue, highlighting the challenges of achieving peace.

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Inquiry finds Putin morally responsible for Dawn Sturgess death, linking Russian President to nerve agent attack in England.

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North West England residents shaken by magnitude 3.3 earthquake, causing houses to shudder and fixtures to rattle. The quake originated off the coast of Silverdale, Lancashire, and was felt in towns like Kendal and Ulverston. Despite the sudden jolt and aftershocks, no injuries or significant damage were reported.

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Four mayoral elections in England face delays until 2028, sparking accusations of democracy undermining. The government, led by Local Government Secretary Steve Reed, cites need for stronger local government foundations. Critics, including Conservatives, Reform UK, and Liberal Democrats, decry the move as a deliberate dictatorial canceling of democracy. Earlier delays for Cheshire, Warrington, and Cumbria elections add to frustration, with local leaders feeling betrayed. The new mayoralties, announced in February, now face further uncertainty.

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The United Kingdom and Norway have formed a naval alliance to counter Russian submarine threats, protecting vital undersea cables. The Lunna House agreement, signed by defense secretaries, aims to safeguard shared waters and critical infrastructure. The pact, supported by a warship deal, will see Type Twenty-Six frigates built in Glasgow, enabling joint operations and enhancing security.

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Man jailed for murdering a teenager in Ballymena settles legal challenge over solitary confinement-like conditions. Moon, serving life for Michael McIlveens killing, was isolated for allegedly hiding items during a body scan. He claimed constant CCTV monitoring was distressing. Prison Service agrees to new CCTV policies for inmates by March 2023, deeming Moon entirely vindicated.

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Police in Armagh and Down issue warnings for distracted driving, catching drivers on video calls and watching movies behind the wheel. This behavior is not only dangerous but also illegal, carrying heavy fines and penalty points. Officials urge drivers to keep distractions out of sight and stay focused on the road. Meanwhile, the PSNI launches a new anti-drink and drug driving operation ahead of the winter season, aiming to make roads safer for everyone during the busy holiday period and beyond.

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Northern Irelands renewable energy goals face a significant challenge as power from renewable sources has dropped to just over forty-four percent, far from the governments eighty percent target by 2030. Wind power, the primary source, has seen a decline, with only one hundred megawatts of new generation connected since 2020, compared to four hundred megawatts in 2016. Mark Richardson, director of RenewableNI, warns of growing concern due to lack of market support schemes and delays in policy and infrastructure reform. With only five hundred days left in the current Assembly mandate, Richardson emphasizes the urgency for real, legislated policy to unlock investment and...

Kyra, a female sun bear at Hertfordshire Zoo, underwent a rare veterinary procedure to address fertility issues, potentially boosting the European sun bear population and setting a precedent for future conservation efforts.

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Flu cases in England surge to record highs, straining the National Health Service. Hospitalizations are up 56% compared to last year, with 1,717 patients daily and 69 in critical care. This early and intense flu season poses significant challenges for the NHS, potentially impacting its ability to meet all commitments.

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The Attorney General has decided to keep a review into Tuslas involvement with Kyran Durnin, a missing boy presumed dead, confidential due to potential legal proceedings. The review, conducted by the National Review Panel, identified weaknesses in Tuslas policies but found no direct link to Kyrans case. The panels chair, Helen Buckley, emphasized the importance of not interfering with ongoing investigations. Recommendations include better tracking of students, new guidance for social workers, and a framework for monitoring family support agencies. Tusla plans to release its reform program next year, and a new bill aims to clarify information sharing to better...

Angela Cunningham, a kind and caring woman, suffered severe brain injuries after a violent attack by her nephew, Nyal Tumelty. Despite his guilty plea and twelve-year sentence, Angelas life remains irrevocably changed. She requires round-the-clock care, unable to process information or walk. Her daughter, Louise, shares the familys devastation, disappointment with the sentence, and the impact on their relationships.

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Ryanair celebrates seven million passengers at Kerry Airport, announces winter schedule with fifty-eight weekly flights across five routes. Airline emphasizes commitment to regional growth, urges government to expand Regional Airports Programme to support development and traffic at regional hubs.

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Strong winds and rain alert for Waterford, Wexford, and Wicklow: Prepare for difficult travel and secure outdoor items

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