Abigail Taylor

Workers at Haldane Fisher’s Carnbane site in Newry remain on strike for a fifth week amid a dispute over pay. Unite the Union members argue that the company’s pay offers fall short of inflation and say long-serving employees feel undervalued, with some relying on food banks. The company maintains it has engaged constructively, sought mediation and offered increases aligned with inflation, noting cumulative rises above inflation since 2021. Talks remain ongoing as both sides seek a sustainable resolution.

Workers at Haldane Fisher’s Carnbane site in Newry have been on strike for five weeks, rejecting the company’s pay offer as insufficient against inflation. Unite the Union says long‑serving staff feel mistreated and some are relying on food banks. The company maintains it has engaged in negotiations, has offered a fair, inflation‑aligned pay increase and must keep any settlement sustainable due to rising business costs. Discussions are ongoing with the Labour Relations Agency.

Gary Lightbody describes Snow Patrol’s collaboration with Kylie Minogue on the single These Alarms as a natural fit, originally written with her in mind. After Minogue recorded vocals with her own producer, Lightbody said her performance completed the track and discussions about further collaboration are ongoing. He reflected on the band’s successful summer shows and the 20th anniversary of their album Eyes Open. Lightbody also spoke about the challenges of collaborative songwriting and named Raye as an artist he hopes to work with in the future, praising both Raye’s talent and Minogue’s musical evolution.

Gary Lightbody says Snow Patrol’s collaboration with Kylie Minogue on the single These Alarms felt inevitable, as he originally wrote the song with her in mind. After the band recorded it, Minogue later added vocals that Lightbody described as extraordinary. The artists are considering further work together. Snow Patrol are also marking the 20th anniversary of their album Eyes Open during recent live performances, while Lightbody expressed interest in future collaborations, particularly with singer-songwriter Raye.