The aim of the Recovery Fund is to help to safely deliver essential services during the Covid-19 crisis and to assist with the safe reopening of the VCSE sector to maintain service delivery.
The Minister explained, “I want to provide the sector with whatever support I can to ensure it can deliver services to the most vulnerable in our communities.
“This phase of the £1m Fund is to ensure that VCSE organisations have the sufficient PPE required to continue service delivery.
“Groups can apply for awards up to £5,000 for the purchase of PPE and I would urge VCSE organisations to apply.”
The Newry and Armagh MLA said, “The spread of COVID-19 and the number of hospitalisations has led to a dramatic increase in the pressures on our health service and its workers.
“The scenes we have witnessed at our own Daisy Hill Hospital here in Newry and hospitals throughout the north have been very concerning.
“The recent joint call by the heads of the health trusts on the increasing pressure, warning of staffing levels, longer waiting times and the cancellation of elective surgery illustrate the seriousness of the current situation.”
Liz continued, “All of this highlights the need for everyone to make sure they don’t do anything that will increase the pressure on the health service and its workers.
The incident occurred at commercial premises on the Dublin Road area of Newry yesterday morning, Sunday 17 January 2021.
Detective Sergeant Ritchie said, “Shortly after 8 am, it was reported that a man entered a shop in the area.
“The male then approached the till and brandished a knife towards a female member of staff.
“The male then made off empty-handed on foot towards the Chancellors Road area following the incident.
“The female staff member was not injured but left badly shaken.
“The man is described as wearing an orange coloured hooded jacket with black sleeves, navy tracksuit bottoms and dark-coloured trainers.
“Enquiries are continuing and we are particularly keen to speak with a woman who was walking a large dog in the area at the time of the incident, who may be able to assist with our enquiries.