The autumn day of October 14, 2025, in the small town of Cookstown, Northern Ireland, turned out to be surprisingly lively. The reason was the visit of a royal—Catherine, Princess of Wales. Her trip to the region focused on supporting youth initiatives in rural areas, with a key highlight being a visit to the newly opened Training and Learning College of the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS).
This modern institution, which opened its doors only recently, is not just a training base for current service staff. It has become a true hub for young people across the area who dream of dedicating their lives to the noble profession of rescue work. Here, all the conditions are in place for the next generation of firefighters to acquire the most advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to confront emergencies and save lives.
The Princess showed genuine interest as she explored the college’s facilities. She was presented with simulators that allow trainees to practice responding to emergency situations as close to real-life as possible, as well as the latest equipment used by local rescue teams. However, Her Royal Highness focused not so much on technology, but on people. Catherine spent considerable time talking with cadets, asking about their motivation for choosing such a demanding profession, the challenges they face in their training, and their future plans. During the informal conversation, she expressed her admiration for their dedication and courage, emphasizing how important their work is to public safety.
This visit was more than just a formality. It forms part of the larger Welsh initiative to support young people in remote parts of the United Kingdom. The Prince and Princess are committed to personally discovering what opportunities exist for creative and entrepreneurial self-realization outside major cities. The NIFRS initiative in Cookstown is a vivid example of how to create growth points and foster professional development, encouraging young people to remain and work in their home regions. Projects like these not only train skilled professionals, but also strengthen local communities, giving them more confidence in the future.
Upon leaving the college, the princess expressed heartfelt gratitude to the administration and the entire staff. Her visit undoubtedly served as a powerful source of motivation for both cadets and faculty, reaffirming the high importance of their mission at the state level. This day will be long remembered by the residents of Cookstown as a symbol of the crown’s attention to the lives of ordinary people and its support for those who have chosen to dedicate their lives to serving others.
