William Smith, The Impartial Reporter Journalist Profile

Articles

Vice-Chair hits out at 'verbal abuse' over immigration motion

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

At a recent meeting, Councillor Shirley Hawkes seconded a DUP Motion calling on the Council to address the impact of "illegal immigration", which voiced concern that immigration is placing "unsustainable pressure" on basic services such as dentists and GPs. This was met with a scathing backlash in the Chamber, with councillors criticising Councillor Hawkes for seconding the Motion despite attending events last month in Omagh to address a rise in racism and disinformation in the district.
An Enniskillen runner's journey from half marathon to open heart surgery

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

Gareth Reihill, a 51-year-old seasoned runner, was diagnosed with a heart condition at the age of 25 when a routine GP appointment revealed a heart murmur. He was referred for a scan and diagnosed with bicuspid aortic valve. This is a congenital (present at birth) valve problem where your aortic valve has only two flaps of skin (called leaflets) that help control blood flow, instead of the usual three.
Explore CAFRE Enniskillen during Open Farm Weekend

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

Whether you’re from a farming background or simply curious about food production, this event offers a unique opportunity to understand how our food is produced and appreciate the value of the local supply chain. Enniskillen Campus will be open on Saturday, June 14 from 10.30am to 4pm. Explore campus trails, equine facilities and try equine simulators. Children can plant pollinator-friendly seeds and milk Daisy the cow. Enjoy riding displays, visit Fermanagh Beekeepers Association.
HSENI to investigate death of a teenager at mental health unit

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

3 1/1 THE Health and Safety Executive (HSENI) has opened an investigation into the death of a teenage girl at a mental health unit in 2022. 18-year-old Katie Donnelly, from Ederney, died suddenly in September, 2022 while being treated at the Western Health and Social Care Trust’s Tyrone and Fermanagh Hospital in Omagh. She had been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder while she had been an in-patient at the Elm Ward at the hospital.
Anti-immigration Motion defeated, criticised as 'racist dog-whistle'

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

4 1/1 A MOTION calling on Fermanagh and Omagh Council to address the impact of illegal immigration has been strongly criticised by councillors, with one condemning it as a "racist, anti-immigration dog whistle". The condemnation was made at Tuesday night's meeting of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council after a Motion was brought forward by DUP Councillor David Mahon.
UFU shares farmers concerns around A5 road scheme

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

The UFU recognises the significance of the A5 Western Transport Corridor project, particularly its potential impact on road safety and regional connectivity. However, it has significant concerns regarding the scheme's impact on agricultural businesses, land vesting and the dire lack of communication from government departments and contractors.
John McClaughry: 'I had to make tough decisions, but it’s all part of being Chairman'

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

Councillor McClaughry stepped down from the top role on Monday, having taken up the chain of office in June last year. Councillor McClaughry follows his late father, Caldwell McClaughry, who served as chairman of the former Fermanagh District Council from 1983 to 1985 and again from 1989 to 1993. “To be chair after my father held the role was an amazing honour. I believe he would be even more proud than I am,” he said.
Councillor ‘speechless’ as rural motion branded ‘turkeys voting for Christmas’

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

The decision was made at this week’s council meeting, where Sinn Féin’s Sheamus Greene proposed a motion to establish a rural parliament in the area, which he described as “an instrument for raising rural issues and bringing about positive change for communities and individuals.” The motion was seconded by his party colleague, Glenn Campbell, who said: “Rural constituents do not have a level playing field compared to those living in urban areas.
Pupils step back in time to explore Brookeborough’s railway past

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

6 1/1 PUPILS from Saint Mary’s Primary School, Brookeborough recently spent a fascinating morning exploring the rich railway heritage of their local area. The event offered the children an opportunity to learn about the history of the Brookeborough railway station, which once formed part of the Clogher Valley Railway – a narrow-gauge line that operated with a three-foot track.
Castle Archdale Service Station celebrates 10 years of growth with £700,000 expansion

3 weeks ago | impartialreporter.com | William Smith

3 1/1 A DECADE after taking the reins of the Castle Archdale Service Station, local businesswoman Catherine Maguire is marking the milestone with a major £700,000 investment that will double the size of the store and significantly enhance customer facilities. Since acquiring the site in May 2015, Catherine and her dedicated team have steadily grown the business into a much-valued hub for locals and visitors alike.