It'll be rats next as strike impasse continues...
Good morning. Today is the twelfth day of industrial action in the ABC borough and the rubbish is piling up. We're not even halfway through what seems an unyielding impasse. Sources close to Armagh I suggest that another four weeks could be added on top of the current strike action – should workers fail to get what they see as a fair deal... Unite, it's understood, have a £50m reserve to help its members with the hardship payments they've been receiving every day of their picket. This may be an extreme and last resort but, according to one source, it's "not off the table".
Workers say they are simply asking for what Derry and Strabane got which is less than what Mid Ulster workers agreed to recently. Council, on the other hand, say they are "fully committed to finding a resolution through ongoing discussions with trade unions". Something has got to give. It'll be the rats next...
Royal Mail are also on strike today. We'll hopefully have some coverage of that later today.
And it looks like the good folk in the south of the county might not be getting away with it as Newry, Mourne and Down Council could be next in line for strike action if a pay deal is not struck there. Watch this space....
On a side note, thanks to everyone who reached out on Tuesday. We've had people (some on holiday and others permanently residing) reach out from La Rochelle in France; Gävle in Sweden; San Jose, California; Tenerife; Australia; and Panama. Thanks so much for taking the time.
Headlines
Armagh City in disarray as unemptied bins litter streets — www.armaghi.com
Traders’ dismay as Armagh Food & Cider Festival axed as council blames strike for decision
Appeal after burglars use upstairs window to enter house
A Lurgan man who punched son (14) and threatened to put him in hospital avoids jail
Charity shop Vincent’s busier than ever as families struggle with cost of living
St Ronan’s GCSE students praised for ‘hard work and determination’
Co Armagh town centres awash with rubbish as stand-off between unions and council continues
Heartbreak for Portadown business owner as Apple Patch announces closure
Man with ‘atrocious’ record for violence refused bail after alleged Lurgan assault
Mother of murdered toddler granted compassionate bail to register as homeless
‘Best of the Best’: Slieve Gullion hailed jewel in crown of NI woods and forest parks
Newtownhamilton’s first ‘Farm to Fork Festival’ in aid of Air Ambulance Northern Ireland
Fresh calls for 40mph speed limit to prevent further accidents at Markethill junctions
Six months in prison for Lurgan man who left police officer out of action for two months
New autism-friendly walled garden and play area opens at Longstone Hospital
Consumers advised to plan around four days of upcoming Royal Mail strike action
Newry company has key role in exciting Lunar Pathfinder Spacecraft 2025 mission
Rushmere Shopping Centre and retail park goes on the market for £57million
Full file expected in case against Keady priest accused of voyeurism
Eithna taking another half marathon in her stride for Marie Curie
All Creatures Great and Small
For part one of our four part 'All Creatures Great and Small' video series, in partnership with Pet Domain, we spoke with several philanthropic members of the USPCA Newry team who all clearly embody the entire ethos of the charity. Watch a preview of the video here and the full video is available on our YouTube channel now.
Episode one will be available on our website on Sunday morning.
Giveaway..
Congratulations to Deborah Boyd who is the lucky winner of the £100 Sally McNally's voucher. We'll be in touch via email with details on how to claim your voucher. Enjoy! And thanks to everyone who entered over the last four weeks.
What's On...
Saturday September 3, 8pm - Building Bridges Community Arts Theatre Presents One Way To Broadway! With all the best in Broadway bangers.
Wednesday September 7, 8pm - Who knew building a fence could be so divisive? The Border Game performance is inspired by over 100 real life testimonies of people living along the border.
Armagh Jobs...
Basil Sheils bar and restaurant require a Chef de Partie — armaghjobs.com The ideal candidate for this role must have at least 5 years experience in a busy kitchen environment and be motivated.
Basil Sheils have several positions available for chefs of varying levels and experience including a Breakfast chef/cook and Commis Chef positions.
Armagh City Hotel require Night Porters to join their team based in Armagh City Centre.
