Keep hanging on the telephone with your GP
Telephone first consultations with Northern Ireland GPs is set to continue, even as Covid-19 restrictions are being eased.
The Royal College of General Practitioners, Dr Laurence Dorman said the phone service was more efficient and while GPs are aware some patients are having difficulties accessing services, he said the phone-first system was necessary to ease “massive pressures” on the system.
Dr Dorman said that the call to a GP was a consultation in itself and helps doctors assess the clinical direction needed.
He said that many patients find the system convenient as it avoids them needing to take time off work or re-arrange family commitments.
Children hepatitis cases investigated
The Public Health Agency has joined with counterparts across the UK to investigate a number of hepatitis cases in children, with concern that the source of the infection has not been identified.
The investigation focuses on cases of liver inflammation causing illness. The common viruses that are normally identified as causing hepatitis have not been detected.
The agency said that the number of cases in Northern Ireland is less than five.
A spokesman said: “The agency is working with HSC partners to raise awareness among healthcare professionals, so that any children who may be affected can be identified early and the appropriate tests carried out.”
Gold and new Newry HQ for ICB
Irish Craft Beverages has announced the opening of a new headquarters in Newry with an investment in the facility for blending, bonding and marketing for its products marketed worldwide under the Two Stacks brand.
The company are also toasting success after winning gold in the prestigious London Spirits Competition for its Dram in a Can as well as silver for its Blender’s Cut Irish whiskeys.
The Two Stacks branded facility is the first bonded whiskey warehouse in the County Down city in over a decade.
In Entertainment
Neeson Derry Girls cameo caused by dame
The guest appearance of Liam Neeson in Derry Girls ‘ series three opener came about after Dame Helen Mirren persuaded the Hollywood A-Lister to watch the show.
His identity was kept secret during filming, with cast and crew referring to him as ‘The Big Fella’ on and off set.
At a question and answer session after the programme’s premiere in Derry, director Michael Lennox explained Dame Helen urged him to watch the hit Channel 4 show, and became a huge fan.
Appearing as Chief Constable Byers, Neeson set the tone for what writer Lisa McGee promises as being filled with surprises for Derry Girls final hurrah.
Red Sky for airshow
The world-famous Red Arrows will bring their stunning aerial display to the International Air Show in Portush and Portstewart which takes place on September 10 to 11 this year.
The air show is organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and is part of its Platinum Jubilee programme with two days of aviation attractions and family fun across the weekend.
It will take place in a new location along the 3-mile coastal stretch between Portrush and Portstewart, offering visitors panoramic views and a chance to get closer to the attractions in the sky.
The Red Arrows will headline the opening day of the show and is their only planned Northern Ireland appearance this year.
News from the Excalibur Press newsroom, Cathedral Quarter, Belfast