Event hailed as a huge success

A LOCAL Alderman has praised the breakfast event to mark International Men’s Day.

Speaking at the event, DUP Airport Alderman, Matthew Magill said, “I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to join with residents of the Borough and council staff to celebrate International Men’s Day.

“I want to pay tribute to my party colleague and Antrim Town Councillor Paul Dunlop who brought the matter to council recently, securing the event; the first of its kind for men locally.

“The contributions made by special guests Daryl Clarke from Monkstown Boxing Club and former rugby player turned social media baker, Jonny Murphy were inspirational.

“The event shone a light on the many positive contributions men make within our communities across Antrim and Newtownabbey but also provided a platform to highlight the challenges faced by men of all ages in day to day life.

“So often a societal stigma is attached to young men in particular and good news stories, like boxer Daryl Clarke’s, rarely see the light of day.

“It’s important that those stories are not only told but promoted and that young men are given positive, healthy role models to look up to.

“The discussion throughout the morning was also a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting men’s wellbeing and encouraging open conversations about mental health, family support structures, personal resilience and community empowerment.

“I left feeling genuinely inspired by the stories shared by the guest speakers and trust the marking of International Men’s Day will become an annual feature in the council’s calendar.

“My thanks go to the staff who organised the event and delivered such a meaningful and impactful morning.”