NEWS
PAUL MCKEEVER CELEBRATES 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS!
When, on 11 May 2001, Paul McKeever purchased his first pharmacy in Marcus Square, Hill Street, Newry, he could scarcely have thought that, 20 years later, his pharmacies would have evolved into a successful chain consisting of 26 branches and employing over 340 staff.
Paul McKeever Managing Director, his wife Helen and their three children James, Lucy and Alice enjoying the 20th Birthday celebrations.
‘Each and every member of our team is important they are all integral in ensuring we provide the best healthcare service possible,’ Paul told PiF. ‘I genuinely get a buzz out of growing the business, the challenge of acquiring another shop, keeping the good things that pharmacy did before, but adding in the elements we do well, creating a more structured offering. However, while providing a service has remained constant, the landscape we are operating in has naturally changed over time. Over the last decade however, with the emergence of the internet and obviously with current COVID-19 pandemic, there has been less face-to-face interaction with our customers. This has been one of the toughest hurdles for us, but we have adapted with provision of a robust online store and a prescription collection and delivery service which has allowed for a seamless transition to a new way of offering our services.’
ASSEMBLY TACKLES DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Repeated lockdowns have witnessed an increase in the incidence of domestic violence across the province. Now, the Northern Ireland Assembly has published an action plan for year six of the seven-year domestic and sexual abuse strategy, as well as a progress report for 2020/21.
Key actions for year six include providing funding to support emergency refuge provision, other accommodation-based services and floating support services and a domestic abuse and civil proceedings bill, which will become operational by the end of 2021. A media awareness campaign and training will also take place.
‘Tackling domestic abuse is extremely important to me,’ said Justice Minister, Naomi Long. ‘Despite COVID-19, my Department has driven forward important work. Legislation for a new domestic abuse offence has been enacted.
‘Free public transport is available for those fleeing domestic abuse to emergency accommodation and a range of media campaigns have raised awareness around how to get help and support.
‘A domestic homicide review process has been also been introduced to learn from tragedies where tragically an individual loses their life.’
UNPAID CARERS THE ‘BACKBONE OF SOCIETY’: SWANN
Health Minister Robin Swann has given further details of a £4.4million scheme to support unpaid carers.
The grant scheme, entitled the Support for Carers Fund, will be open to community and voluntary sector organisations, with charitable purposes offering support to carers and operating within Northern Ireland.
Robin Swann
‘Unpaid carers are the backbone of society,’ the Health Minister said, ‘supporting and caring for many that may otherwise struggle without that help. The role of unpaid carers can often go unrecognised and this funding will provide much needed help and support at a time when many have increased their caring role during the COVID-19 pandemic. I am full of admiration for carers and their tremendous dedication. They make many sacrifices and it's right that they should be given our support and thanks for all they do.’
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