Refresher on Windsor Framework following democratic consent vote by MLAs

Following Assembly Members’ vote to continue Northern Ireland’s Brexit trading arrangements known as the Windsor Framework, Holywell Trust has provided a refresher on the Agreement and what it means in real terms for people here.

The first exercise of democratic consent which took place this week at Stormont was a measure in the original Protocol to ensure that Northern Ireland has its say. The motion on the continued application of Articles 5 to 10 of the Windsor Framework, which includes arrangements on the Movement of Goods, VAT and Excise, the Single Electricity Market and State Aid, passed by 48 to 36 votes on 10 December 2024.

When the UK officially left the EU in January 2020, it left the EU single market which ensures the free movement of goods, services, capital and people across its territory. This had implications on the island of Ireland and left Northern Ireland sharing a border with the EU.

The EU and the UK negotiated the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland in an attempt to deal with the ‘unique circumstances’ on the island of Ireland. However, some conditions of the Protocol were deemed contentious, as the proposed changes were seen to put a customs border down the Irish Sea.

The Windsor Framework was an updated version of the Protocol, agreed by the UK and EU in February 2023, that sought to provide definitive solutions to ease the movement of goods into Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK.

In January, the DUP also secured guarantees from the UK government in the Safeguarding the Union deal regarding Northern Ireland’s place in the UK internal market.

‘Stormont Brake’ provisions also give the Assembly the power to recommend the blocking of new or updated EU rules from applying in the region. The UK Government would then decide how to proceed.

Some new rules under the Windsor Framework have already been brought in, including on goods such as medicines, addressing concerns about supplies to Northern Ireland.

Another test for its implementation was due on 1st of October when rules on movement of parcels were due to come into effect. These have now been postponed for six months. For members of the public in Northern Ireland, receiving parcels from Great Britain should be unaffected. There will be changes for GB businesses posting to NI businesses, but a trusted trader system will help mitigate the new rules.

During a recent Holywell Trust seminar on the Windsor Framework, Professor David Phinnemore commented:

"Brexit meant disruption and that was rarely fully understood during the UK-wide debate at the time. The question now is where that disruption will now be placed so that it has minimal impact on you.

“Are there benefits to the Windsor Framework? There is potential but I do not subscribe to the notion that it is the best of both worlds.

“If you are a producer in Northern Ireland, you have got greater market access than in any other part of Europe, because you've got direct access into the EU market and you've got unfettered access into the GB market. That's a comparative advantage but exploiting that situation will take some adjustment.”

Dr Lisa Claire Whitten added:

“We haven't fully seen Brexit yet. In a GB context, they've only just started implementing the Border Target Operating Model (the Government’s new approach to importing goods) which means they are only just starting to have new checks and controls coming from EU into GB so that comparative advantage that Northern Ireland has, we haven't seen it in its full effect as yet because not everything has been implemented in terms of the new post-Brexit era of trade across these islands and across Europe.

"We are still in that settling position and any benefits and opportunities will likely come after that rather than during the transition period.”

Holywell Trust Director, Gerard Deane commented:

“Brexit has had real implications for people in Northern Ireland and its important to that people can understand what the outcome of these highly technical negotiations means for them.

“I would like to thank Professor David Phinnemore and Dr Lisa Claire Whitten from Queen’s University for providing their expertise in helping to explain the Agreement and hope this provides clarity for anyone confused by the conversation around the Windsor Framework and Brexit in general.”

Andrew Fleming Appointed New Derry Chamber President

Pictured: New Londonderry Chamber of Commerce President Andrew Fleming

Andrew Fleming has been appointed the 82nd President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting.

 Andrew is Chief Executive of FNW Group, made up of Fleming Steel, Fleming Doors and Fleming Coatings based in Donegal; Norwest Roofing Systems in Omagh; Limavady Roller Doors in Limavady and BES Solutions in Belfast.

In his address at the AGM, Andrew thanked outgoing President Greg McCann for his contribution to Derry Chamber, and spoke of the potential that is ready to be unlocked in the North West, as well as his ambitions for 2025.

Andrew will be supported in his role by Steven Lindsay from Cavanagh Kelly Accountancy, as Chamber Vice President.

The Chamber also welcomed new Board members William McColgan, Director of McColgan’s Quality Foods in Strabane, and Clare McGee, CEO and Co-Founder of Awaken Angels in Derry.

Speaking to members at the AGM, Chamber President Andrew Fleming said:

“The North West City Region is brimming with potential just waiting to be unlocked. I am grateful to become President in what is a very positive time for our region, with the Executive’s commitment to regional balance and review of Invest NI, the signing of the Derry-Londonderry and Strabane Region City Deal, the work of the University taskforce and ambitious plans as part of the All-Island strategic rail review, to name a few. This progress has been aided by the diligent team at Derry Chamber and the many excellent Presidents that have come before me.

“I believe the time for talking and signing agreements is over – now is the time to see diggers in the ground and cranes in the air, and the foundations of our future being laid. Now is the opportunity for our people to be invested in, as well as our region.

“I will set out to be a trusted voice for our local businesses and promote the crucial collaborative partnerships that are needed between our public, private and education sectors. I believe that the North West City Region is a powerful concept and should continue to develop and promote ambitious regional collaborations. Memorandums of Understanding with Letterkenny and Causeway Chambers are of huge value and support other stakeholders seeking to increase linkages across county and country borders.

“In this spirit of progression and positivity, I am thrilled to announce that my chosen charity as Chamber President is In Your Space Circus, who do outstanding work in utilising circus and street theatre in Derry to bring communities together, create social change, address inequalities and champion lifelong learning. I look forward to supporting their ambition to breathe life back into the iconic ‘Cathedral School’ building situated adjacent to the city walls.

“I would also like to thank Greg most sincerely for his remarkable leadership and commitment during the past year and I look forward to working with the Chamber team in the weeks and months ahead to champion the North West region and our outstanding businesses.”

Outgoing President Greg McCann added:

 “Holding the role of Chamber President over the past 12 months has been a tremendous privilege, both professionally and personally. During my time as President, I have worked to strengthen our voice in the North West and ensure that we are heard by policy-makers and Ministers, that our potential is seen, and that our region receives the investment that it deserves.

 “I take great encouragement from the plans and investments announced for the North West by the Executive this year, and I know that Andrew will diligently carry on the work of Derry Chamber in supporting further development in the North West and ensuring this renewed economic vision for the North West becomes a reality.

 “I have great hope for both the future of Derry Chamber and our region as we enter this new chapter.”

43% of NI businesses grew in last year but one-in-ten in danger of closure

Pictured: Michael McQuillan, CEO, Enterprise Northern Ireland & Maureen O’Reilly, Independent Economist.

43% of Northern Ireland businesses report growth in the past 12 months, with 61% forecasting growth in the 12 months ahead, the results of the NI Enterprise Barometer 2024 have revealed today. However, optimism around turnover is overshadowed by increasing pressures on profitability, as one-in-ten businesses stated that they are in difficulty and/or at risk of closure amidst rising costs, skills shortages, and operational challenges.

The NI Enterprise Barometer, the annual survey of the region’s small, micro, and self-employed businesses commissioned by Enterprise Northern Ireland now in its sixth year, found that 43% of NI businesses report growth over the last 12 months, with 35% reporting stable conditions, 12% reporting contracting performance, and 10% stating that they are in difficulty/at risk of closure. While the 43% of businesses experiencing growth marks a 1% decrease from 2023, expectations for the next 12 months are markedly more optimistic, with 61% of businesses expecting growth, 27% expecting to remain stable, and just 7% and 5% expecting to contract or be in difficulty/at risk of closure respectively.

80% of businesses are prioritising growth within Northern Ireland, with the Republic of Ireland the most popular destination for NI businesses hoping to grow sales. 47% of businesses stated that they are hoping to grow sales in the Republic, followed by 39% for Great Britain, 22% for the rest of the EU, and 20% for other international markets.

However, this optimism is tempered by rising costs, skills gaps and vacancies, and technology and productions issues. 88% of businesses state that the cost of raw materials has risen (with 55% stating that it has risen by more than 10%), and more than half of businesses report rising costs in state utilities (87%), vehicle running costs (85%), and the cost of borrowing (55%). Three in four businesses have also seen wages increase over the last year, with 38% of wage costs having increased by more than 10% and 11% having increased by 30%.

32% of businesses report vacancies, an increase on the 27% of 2023. 55% of businesses state that the appropriate skills for their business have been difficult to find, with one in five finding it very difficult. 47% say that they do not know where to access skills support, a decrease from 53% in 2023. The highest skills development gaps were found to be: marketing and communications (54%); sales, exporting and business development (43%); market/customer research (31%); managing finances (28%); and understanding and embracing artificial intelligence (27%).

While 30% of businesses rate their productivity as very good or excellent, businesses do report concerns, with 40% calling their operating efficiency satisfactory/poor and 30% rating their technological adoption as satisfactory/poor.

Minister for the Economy, Conor Murphy MLA said:

“Since the publication of the last Barometer, the Executive has been restored, I have set four economic priorities, and my Department has recalibrated its activities in line with these. I’ve established a dedicated £12m Skills Fund, new Local Economic Partnerships are being set up at pace and Invest NI is being reformed.

“My economic plans are now contained within the draft Programme for Government, meaning that the whole Executive is behind one economic agenda. So, things are moving at pace and I’m pleased to say that this year’s barometer points to a positive economic outlook, whilst recognising there are challenges. This resonates with my own engagements with the business community.

“We will feed this information into our policies and budgets for the coming year and we will continue to work with Enterprise NI to ensure that the necessary support is in place for our entrepreneurs and small business owners.”

Maureen O’Reilly, Lead Economist, NI Enterprise Barometer, said:

“The richness and depth of the Barometer offer us a unique longitudinal analysis of Northern Ireland’s economy. While the resilience of our business community is evident, the fragility of profits – aggravated by rising costs – cannot be ignored.”

Michael McQuillan, Chief Executive, Enterprise NI, said:

“It is critical that councils, Invest NI, Enterprise NI, Local Enterprise Agencies, and the Department for the Economy work in concert to deliver targeted support where it is most needed. The increasing pressure on profitability requires us to act decisively to sustain the growth and resilience of our local businesses.

“Efforts should focus on delivering accessible, tailored services that help businesses manage costs, enhance productivity, and retain profitability. The voices of local businesses, as captured in the Barometer, provide a clear roadmap. We must now respond with urgency and unity.”

All this talk about Private Members’ Bills – A Closer Look at Their Role in the Northern Ireland Assembly

As a new Parliamentary session begins, a fresh wave of Private Members’ Bills are being introduced, with MPs vying to bring their proposals to the legislative forefront. This year, the spotlight is firmly on Labour backbencher Kim Leadbeater MP’s Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which has ignited a nationwide debate on assisted dying. Scheduled for its second reading in the House of Commons this Friday, November 29, the bill has garnered significant attention, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer granting his MPs a free vote—a rare move underscoring its importance.

While Leadbeater’s bill dominates headlines in Westminster, the question arises: what is the current status of Private Members’ Bills in Northern Ireland?

In the Northern Ireland Assembly, most legislation is introduced by Ministers, but individual Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) also have the opportunity to present Private Members’ Bills (PMBs), now officially known as Non-Executive Bills. These bills allow MLAs to address specific issues or advocate for causes that may not be prioritised by the Executive.

Recent examples of successful PMBs include the Period Products (Free Provision) Act, spearheaded by Pat Catney, which ensures free access to period products in schools, colleges, and public buildings—an important milestone in combating period poverty.

Since the Assembly’s return in February, several MLAs have expressed intentions to introduce their own Private Member’s Bill during this legislative mandate, which runs until 2027. For these proposals to become law, they must navigate the legislative process and secure Assembly approval before the mandate's end. Those that have been mentioned so far include Private Members’ Bills on:

·       Holiday Hunger (Danny Baker MLA, Sinn Féin)

·       Hunting of Wild Mammals with Dogs (John Blair MLA, Alliance)

·       Display of Flags, Emblems and Banners (Paula Bradshaw MLA, Alliance – if not brought forward by The Executive Office)

·       People’s Housing (Gerry Carroll MLA, People Before Profit)

·       UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Danny Donnelly MLA, Alliance)

·       Unadopted Housing Developments (Deborah Erskine MLA, DUP)

·       Mandatory Suicide Prevention Training for Departmental Staff (Órlaithí Flynn MLA, Sinn Fein)

·       Statutory Duty of Candour (Paul Frew MLA, DUP)

·       Late Payments for Small Business (David Honeyford MLA, Alliance)

·       Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment (Sinéad McLaughlin MLA, SDLP)

·       Age Discrimination in Goods, Facilities and Services (Claire Sugden MLA, Independent Unionist)

·       Ending Conversion Therapy (Eóin Tennyson MLA, Alliance)

Three Private Members’ Bills have already been officially proposed as Non-Executive Bills by Danny Baker MLA, John Blair MLA, and Gerry Carroll MLA. As the current mandate progresses, it will be important to monitor other bills introduced by MLAs and their colleagues. Notably, attention will also be on whether an Assisted Dying Bill, similar to the one in Westminster, emerges in the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Signing of Mid South West Growth Deal Heads of Terms Agreement Marks a Pivotal Step in Transforming Region’s Economy

The Mid South West (MSW) Region Growth Deal has reached a key milestone as partner representatives from the UK Government, Northern Ireland Executive, and the three participating councils signed the Heads of Terms Agreement in Cookstown on Wednesday.

The Heads of Terms Agreement for the Growth Deal sets out a commitment  by the partners to deliver on a suite of  catalyst Infrastructure, Regeneration, Tourism, Innovation and Digital projects that will contribute to the objectives of the Mid South West Regional Economic Strategy.

The investment package comprises a commitment of £126 million each from the Northern Ireland Executive and UK Government, enhanced by an additional £18.5 million in government funding from the Executive for the A4 Enniskillen Southern Bypass and the Ulster American Folk Park, as well as contributions of approximately £8 million from the Mid South West Region Councils and the potential for substantial private sector investment bringing the potential investment to over £330m.

The signing at The Burnavon came a week after the Chancellor’s confirmation in the Autumn Budget that the UK Government would fund the two remaining Northern Ireland Growth Deals.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill MLA deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly MLA, Finance Minister Caoimhe Archibald MLA, Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP addressed those in attendance ahead of the signing and spoke of a firm commitment to investing in the region and of boosting economic prosperity and sustainable development.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill said:

“It’s a hugely positive day for local communities as we celebrate the signing of the Heads of Terms for the Mid South West Growth Deal.

“We fought hard as an Executive to ensure this significant piece of funding was delivered to drive investment and create more jobs throughout our towns, villages and cities.

“I look forward to working with local councils and people to see the development of exciting projects including the A29 Cookstown Bypass, the A4 Enniskillen Southern Bypass, the Ulster American Folk Park redevelopment and the Armagh Gaol restoration.

“This game-changing deal will help to unlock our economic potential, promote regional balance and see the delivery of transformative infrastructure, education and tourism projects. I am committed to driving forward real and positive change and creating the best opportunities for all.”

Deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly said:

“This is a significant day, one that was hard fought for. We are determined to drive economic prosperity across Northern Ireland and the City and Growth Deals are an important element of that.

“The impressive key projects involved in the Mid South West Growth Deal will deliver a much-needed and welcome boost for the area. I have no doubt they will bring a wide range of benefits to local communities and the wider region including better connectivity and enhanced tourist attractions. They will also create job opportunities and pave the way for further private investment in the future.”       

Finance Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said:

“While it may have taken slightly longer than anticipated I am pleased to be here today signing the Heads of Terms for the Mid South West Growth Deal. Projects included in this Growth Deal will shape local infrastructure, create job opportunities and further increase the skills base of the region. In addition this significant funding injection will go towards addressing regional imbalance, boosting economic activity helping to attract further investment and opportunities. I look forward to following the Mid South West Growth Deal as it progresses and seeing the transformative changes this investment will bring to the wider region.”

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP said: 

“The £126m of UK Government funding will enable the start of a green transformation, with innovative eco projects helping us to move forward to a net zero future supporting local businesses to thrive.
“This Deal will encourage economic growth not only in the Mid South West region, but across the whole of Northern Ireland.
“I want to pay tribute to everyone whose determination and effort has helped make today’s signing happen.
“It will bring tremendous benefits to the whole community and I will continue to support this deal as we head into the next phase of delivery.”

Kevin Savage, Chair of the MSW Governance Steering Group, and Programme Director Paul Donnelly gave an overview of the Growth Deal’s ambitions and its proposed projects.

The 12 project proposals included in the MSW Growth Deal are:

1. A4 Enniskillen Southern Bypass

2. A29 Cookstown Bypass

3. Armagh Gaol Restoration and Transformation Project

4. Ulster American Folk Park redevelopment

5. Cuilcagh Lakelands Landscape Project enhancements

6. Robotics Automation Packaging Innovation Centre

7. Agri-Bio innovation Centre

8. Green Energy District

9. Desertcreat Green Innovation Park

10. Green Hydrogen Distribution Network

11. Concrete Sustainability Innovation Centre

12. Green Industrial Challenge Fund

Kevin Savage, Chair of the Mid South West Governance Steering Group, said:

“The Heads of Terms Agreement we have signed today is a pivotal commitment that sets us on a path to future-proofing the economic growth of our region. By driving innovation, bolstering our infrastructure, and embracing sustainable growth, we are laying the groundwork for a balanced, thriving economy.

“The Mid South West Growth Deal will be a catalyst for growth, creating good jobs, elevating the region as a hub for innovation, and unlocking economic potential, while also attracting significant private sector investment to further fuel the region’s development.”

Minister for Infrastructure John O’Dowd said:

“This is a significant day for all those who have worked so hard on the Mid South West Region Growth Deal. Getting infrastructure right – and investing in it – can deliver real benefits for our citizens, communities and the economy so I am pleased that my Department is progressing two major schemes included in the Deal: the A4 Enniskillen bypass and the A29 Cookstown bypass. 

“These projects will provide more accessible and inclusive transport options, remove traffic congestion and will help to support the creation of new business and leisure opportunities.  I will continue to work closely with my Executive colleagues and council partners to deliver projects that will bring about positive changes for urban and rural communities.” 

Brown O’Connor names former MLA Chris Lyttle as latest senior hire

New Role: Brown O’Connor names former MLA Chris Lyttle as latest senior hire

Brown O’Connor Communications has appointed former Northern Ireland Assembly MLA Chris Lyttle as a Client Director.

Lyttle joins the agency after several years with the Irish Football Association as Head of Public Affairs and more than a decade as a Stormont MLA. 

The appointment comes as the agency says that its client base has grown by a third since the return of the NI Executive earlier this year. Lyttle will work across the agency’s specialist services in public affairs, media relations, property and planning, strategic planning and litigation PR.

Managing Director, Chris Brown, Brown O’Connor Communications commenting on the appointment of Chris Lyttle said:

“Anyone who knows Chris will be aware that he is a hardworking, dedicated individual with a high level of expertise and knowledge from his significant stint as an MLA and a Committee Chair at the NI Assembly.”

“Brown O’Connor is a driven and ambitious agency and Chris is the right appointment to assist us in bolstering our integrated public affairs, media relations and public awareness campaigning strategic counsel.”

“With the re-establishment of the NI Executive and Assembly earlier this year, our client base has grown significantly, and we expect further growth into 2025, particularly with the likes of the professional services sector, trade associations, and projects across several government departments.”

Chris Lyttle, Client Director, Brown O’Connor Communications added:

“The tenacity and energy that Brown O’Connor demonstrates for its clients is clear and is made of a team of people who are trusted to deliver. The agency works on some of the most complex, demanding and sensitive issues requiring insight, intelligence and ability to navigate politics here and further afield. This is an exciting time to join the team and to make a real and lasting contribution.”

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves MP unveils Labour's first Budget in 14 years

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves MP has today unveiled the newly elected Labour Government’s first Budget since 2009. She has become the first woman to do so. The Budget has come after the new Government has found itself in a particularly difficult economic situation, with the Chancellor stating that her party inherited a £22billion black hole from the previous Conservative Government.

Due to this, the Chancellor announced that taxes will rise by £40billion to rebuild public services and restore stability in the UK’s public finances. 

Find below a summary of the key measures announced by the Chancellor.

Northern Ireland

• The Chancellor announced that her Government will “proceed with” the Causeway Coast and Glens and Mid-South West Growth deals in Northern Ireland.

• £1.5billion of funding will be allocated to the Northern Ireland Executive in 2025/26.

• The Budget therefore indicates that the NI Executive’s Budget for 2025/26 will be £18.2billion, an increase of 1.3% on 2024/25.

• £1.3billion of grant funding will be allocated to local government to deliver essential services, including social care and homelessness.

Tax

• The freeze on Income Tax thresholds will not be extended beyond 2028, with tax thresholds to be uprated in line with inflation from 2028/29.

• National Insurance, VAT and Income Tax will not increase for employees.

• Capital Gains Tax on shares is to be increased from the lower rate of 10% to 18% and for the current higher rate of 20% to increase to 24%.

• Stamp Duty for second homes is to increase to 5% from October 31st 2024.

• The Fuel Duty freeze will continue into next year.

• The non-dom tax regime will be abolished.

• The Government is increasing the windfall tax on the profits oil and gas firms make in the UK – from 35% to 38% on 1 November.

• The freeze on Inheritance Tax thresholds will be extended until 2030. Agricultural and Business Property Relief will be reformed from April 2025.

Minimum Wage

• The minimum wage for over 21s, known as the National Living Wage, will increase by 6.7%, from £11.44 to £12.21 from 1 April 2025.

• For 18- to 20-year-olds, the minimum wage will increase from £8.60 to £10.00.

• Apprentices will also see a wage increase, from £6.40 to £7.55 an hour.

National Insurance

• Employer National Insurance contributions (currently 13.8%) are to increase to 15% from April 2025.

• The salary threshold where employer National Insurance contributions begin will be reduced to £5,000 per year.

• The Employment Allowance for small businesses will be increased from £5,000 to £10,500.

State Pension

• The state pension is set to rise by 4.1% from 1 April 2025. This is an increase of £460 a year.

Healthcare

• There will be a £22.6billion of day-to-day funding for the Department of Health, including a £3.1billion increase in the capital health budget.

• £1.57billion of funding has been announced for NHS diagnostic centres and surgical hubs.

• Duty on draft alcohol will be cut by 1%. Alcohol duty rates on non-draught products will increase in line with RPI from February 2025.

• The Government will renew the tobacco duty escalator meaning that taxes on tobacco products will rise by the Retail Price Index (RPI) plus 2%. Duty on hand-rolled tobacco will increase by 10% and a flat-rate duty on all vaping liquid will be introduced from 2026.

Housing

• The Government confirmed a £500million top-up to the £11.5billion Affordable Homes Programme. This will help to build up 5,000 new affordable homes.

• The Treasury confirmed a new five-year social housing rent settlement to give the sector “long-term certainty on funding” and allow it to invest in new homes.

• The Chancellor also confirmed £128million of funding to support the delivery of new housing projects, including £25million for a public-private partnership to build 3,000 eco-homes.

Defence

• £2.9billion of funding has been announced for the armed forces. This has led to defence spending as a percentage of GDP falling slightly, due to updated growth forecasts.

• £3billion of funding each year has been allocated for military support for Ukraine for “as long as it takes”.

• Funding will also be allocated for the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ days in 2026.

Transport

• The Chancellor announced that the long-delayed HS2 project will go to Euston.

• The single bus fare cap applied to many routes in England will be raised from £2 to £3. The existing cap was due to expire at the end of December, but has been extended, at £3, to the end of 2025.

• The Chancellor stated that Air Passenger Duty has not kept up with inflation, and so an increase of no more than £2 will be introduced for short-haul economy flight. Air Passenger Duty for private jets will be increased by a further 50%.

Education

• The Government has said VAT will be added to private school fees from 1 January.

• £1.4billion has been allocated to “ensure the delivery” of the School Rebuilding Programme introduced by the previous Conservative Government.

• The Chancellor also announced that she would triple investment in free breakfast clubs to £30million in 2025-26.

• £6.7billion of capital investment will be allocated to the Department of Education.

• £1.8billion has been earmarked for the expansion of Government funded childcare, with a further £15million of capital funding for school-based nurseries.

Disabilities

• £240million of funding has been announced for work, health, and skills support for disabled and sick people.

• The salary threshold for carers’ allowance is set to rise from £151 a week to £181.

Energy and Net Zero

• The Government will maintain existing incentives for Electric Vehicles in company car tax from 2028.

• There will be increased investment in carbon capture and storage, including funding for 11 new green hydrogen projects.

• GB Energy will be established in Aberdeen in 2025.

Growth

The Chancellor has published a detailed assessment of Labour's policies for the next decade. She stated that real GDP growth will be:

• 1.1% in 2024

• 2.0% in 2025

• 1.8% in 2026

• 1.5% in 2027

• 1.5% in 2028

• 1.6% in 2029

Northern Ireland charities unite to launch Disasters Emergency Committee Middle East Humanitarian Appeal

Four of the DEC charities launch the Middle East Humanitarian Appeal in Belfast. Pictured left to right: Jackie Trainor, Concern Worldwide, Chris Thompson, Tearfund, Alison McNulty, British Red Cross and Peter Bryson, Save the Children.

Northern Ireland charities unite to launch Disasters Emergency Committee Middle East Humanitarian Appeal 

Four charities in Northern Ireland have united with other leading UK aid charities, to launch the Disasters Emergency Committee Middle East Humanitarian Appeal to raise urgent funds to end the humanitarian catastrophe in the Middle East.

British Red Cross, Concern Worldwide, Save the Children and Tearfund alongside 11 other UK aid agencies are responding right now in Gaza, Lebanon and the West Bank, providing lifesaving food, water, shelter, medicine and much more.

Over the past year, conflict in the Middle East has devastated lives across the region, and millions have fled their homes in search of safety. Right now, millions of people across Gaza, Lebanon and the wider region are in urgent need of food, shelter and medical care. 

DEC member charities are coordinating closely with each other and with local partners to provide lifesaving food, water, shelter, medicine and more. 

In Gaza, the scale of need is overwhelming, with people already dying of hunger and disease, as well as injuries caused by the conflict. Food and clean water are desperately scarce and ninety percent of the population have been displaced, often multiple times.  

In Lebanon, more than a million people have had to leave their homes in recent weeks. Shelters are overwhelmed, and hospitals are struggling to treat the thousands of people injured.  

In the West Bank, vital water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure has been damaged by ongoing violence and families have been displaced from their homes. 

In Israel, families of those held hostage desperately await news of their loved ones, tens of thousands of people are displaced and many more are dealing with trauma caused by the conflict.

The DEC brings together 15 leading aid charities at times of crisis overseas where there is significant unmet humanitarian need. Despite extraordinary challenges and risks, 14 DEC member charities are responding right now in Gaza and Lebanon and 8 in the West Bank.  

Alison McNulty, Director of the British Red Cross in Northern Ireland said: “Millions of people have been displaced multiple times and have no homes to return to. Entire communities and essential infrastructure is destroyed. As the British Red Cross and other DEC member charities respond in Gaza, Lebanon and the West Bank, providing food, water, shelter and medicine we are asking the Northern Ireland public to support this appeal and help us meet this catastrophic need which is growing by the day. We are asking people to please donate now to save lives.” 

Peter Bryson, Director of Save the Children in Northern Ireland said: “This is a humanitarian crisis that is beyond our comprehension. An estimated 20,000 children in Gaza are unaccompanied or separated or missing in the last 12 months, and those missing are presumed dead. We are doing all we can to respond to children’s needs and are urging people in Northern Ireland to donate to the DEC appeal, so we can deliver the vital aid to children and their families, who have lived through this brutal conflict.”

Jackie Trainor, Director of Concern Worldwide in Northern Ireland said: “People like us are living through a conflict that has completely devastated their lives during the past year. They want somewhere safe to go and look after their families, but they cannot even meet their most basic needs. In Northern Ireland we have counted on the generosity of people in the past, to help us raise vital funds and get help to people who need it most. We need support now more than ever as funds are running out but the need is growing.”

Chris Thompson, Northern Ireland Director at Tearfund said: “Aid agencies like Tearfund have been on the ground in the region during this past year and beyond, helping people who are desperately trying to survive. Despite these huge risks and a situation that changes rapidly, they have remained there to save lives. Joining with other aid agencies to launch this appeal, we know that all funds raised will go to where they are needed most. By working together, we hope to reach millions more across the region who urgently need shelter, food and basic supplies to survive.”

Saleh Saeed, Chief Executive of the DEC, said: “The DEC brings together the 15 leading humanitarian organisations to respond in desperate need, and tragically now is one of those times. Over the past year, conflict in the Middle East has devastated lives across the region, and millions have fled their homes in search of safety. Right now, millions of people across Gaza Lebanon and the wider region are in urgent need of food, shelter and medical care.”

DEC member charities are responding in Gaza, Lebanon and the West Bank are providing lifesaving food - hot meals, food kits, fresh vegetables – as well as water, hygiene kits, shelter, core relief items like blankets and mattresses, medicine, and mental health support.

People can donate

Online at dec.org.uk

£10 could provide blankets for two people  
£50 could provide emergency food for five families for one week
£100 could provide emergency shelter for five families   

For more information on the Appeal, please visit the DEC website.

Stay up to date with the appeal with the DEC on X or on Facebook.  

About the DEC:

The DEC brings together 15 leading UK aid charities at times of crisis overseas to raise funds quickly and efficiently. In these times of crisis, people in life-and-death situations need our help and our mission is to save, protect and rebuild lives through effective humanitarian response. The DEC’s 15 member charities are: Action Against Hunger, ActionAid UK, Age International, British Red Cross, CAFOD, CARE International UK, Christian Aid, Concern Worldwide UK, International Rescue Committee UK, Islamic Relief Worldwide, Oxfam GB, Plan International UK, Save the Children UK, Tearfund and World Vision UK.     

All 15 of the DEC’s members are either responding or planning to respond in the Middle East and will receive funds from this appeal. Some may work through trusted local partners. They are Action Against Hunger, ActionAid UK, Age International, British Red Cross, CAFOD, CARE International UK, Christian Aid, Concern Worldwide UK, International Rescue Committee UK, Islamic Relief Worldwide, Oxfam GB, Save the Children UK, Tearfund and World Vision UK.    

DEC member charities are committed to the principles of neutrality, impartiality, humanity and independence – it guides all of the lifesaving work we do. As humanitarian aid agencies, we have an obligation to give aid wherever it is needed, prioritising the most urgent needs of the most vulnerable people. 

Through UK Aid Match the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) gives the British public the opportunity to have a say in how the UK aid budget is spent whilst boosting the impact of the very best British charities to change and save the lives of some of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people.       

UK Aid Match has increased the impact of a number of DEC appeals to help those in need around the world, including most recently the Turkey-Syria Earthquake Appeal in 2023.  In 2022, the UK matched up to £25 million of public donations to DEC’s Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal - the largest commitment ever made to a DEC appeal through UK Aid Match.    

UK Aid Match enquiries should be directed to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. Please call 020 7023 0600 (24-hour). 

How to donate:      

Online: dec.org.uk   

Phone: 0330 123 0333 [Standard network charges apply]   

Text to give/SMS: for press releases: text SUPPORT to 70676 to donate £10. Other partners should use the specific text keywords they have been provided with by the DEC. [Texts cost £10 plus your standard network rate]    

Send a cheque by post to: DEC Middle East Humanitarian Appeal, PO Box 999, London EC3A 3AA.   

SDLP Party Conference 2024

Introduction

• The SDLP will hold its Annual Party Conference tomorrow at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Belfast.

• This will be the first party conference where Stormont has been fully operational since February 2022.

• This will be the first party conference with Claire Hanna MP as it’s leader.

• The SDLP will be hoping to inject new energy into the party with a new leader and its role as the official opposition in the Assembly.

What’s the context?

• The last LucidTalk poll conducted over the Summer placed the SDLP on 8%, which remained unchanged from the previous Spring poll conducted in May 2024.

• With the SDLP now the official opposition in Stormont, the party will hope that this brings with it opportunities to improve their visibility and appeal to voters.

• Despite decreased majorities, the party successfully returned both of its MPs to parliament in the recent Westminster election.

• MP for South Belfast and Mid Down Claire Hanna will become leader of the SDLP following the resignation of Colum Eastwood, who served in the role for nearly a decade.

What can we expect?

• Claire Hanna will be ratified by party members as the next leader of the SDLP, becoming the seventh leader in its 54-year history.

• Delegates will be addressed by leading party figures, with speeches from outgoing leader Colum Eastwood MP and Leader of the Opposition Matthew O’Toole MLA, and Claire Hanna MP will make her first speech as leader when closing off the conference in the afternoon.

• The party will provide an update on the work of its New Ireland commission, which explores paths to Irish unity through partnership, co-operation and reconciliation.

• The conference will showcase the rising talent within the party, hosting a conversation with Derry City and Strabane Mayor Lilian Seenoi-Barr and Newry, Mourne and Down Chairperson Pete Byrne.

Hundreds of business leaders and tech experts gather in Belfast for Artificial Intelligence conference

(L-R) Gareth Workman, Chief AI Officer at Kainos, DR Lollie Mancey, Programme Director at UCD Innovation Academy, Councillor Micky Murphy, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Conor Murphy MLA, Minister for the Economy, Michaela Black, Professor of Artificial Intelligence, Ulster University, Tom Gray, Director of Innovation and Group CTO, Kainos.

A leading technology conference, AI Con has hosted hundreds of tech experts and business leaders today in Belfast (Thursday, 3 October).

Among the speakers were the UK Information Commissioner John Edwards, the Economy Minister Conor Murphy, and leading Irish AI expert Dr Lollie Mancey from UCD Innovation Academy. 

Technologists and business leaders gathered to hear from leading experts in the Artificial Intelligence space, including representatives from the University College Dublin Innovation Academy, Kainos, Axial3D, ASOS, and Ulster University’s new Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre.

John Edwards spoke to delegates about the crucial role of privacy in AI regulation, drawing on his extensive experience in data protection and privacy.

Dr Mancey explored the concept of Generative AI and innovations that not only enhance human capabilities but also promote ethical and sustainable development. She addresses three critical questions: what should we do, why should we do it, and how can we reimagine society and our role within it.

The conference also featured, for the first time, an AI generated panellist ‘Clay’, an AI avatar capable of engaging in real-time dialogue with multiple participants.

Now in its sixth year, AI Con features a twin-track approach with two simultaneous programmes: ‘AI Now’ and ‘AI Next.’ AI Now delves into the current state of the art, covering topics such as developing and operating AI-based systems, regulation, responsible AI, and societal and economic impacts, while AI Next explores cutting-edge AI research, including emerging methodologies, models, and technologies.

AI Con 2024 is hosted by Kainos and supported by Allstate, Invest NI, Matrix, Synechron, Belfast City Council, Options, and the Artificial Intelligence Collaboration Centre (AICC).

Speaking ahead of AI Con, Hosted by Kainos, Tom Gray, Group Chief Technology Officer and Director of Innovation and Founder of AI Con, said:

“AI Con 2024 is another step in our ongoing journey to shape the future of Artificial Intelligence. By featuring the dual-track approach with 'AI Now' and 'AI Next,' we have aimed to provide a comprehensive view of AI's current impact, and its future potential."

"The focus is not only on advancing technology but also on creating a responsible AI ecosystem that prioritises ethical innovation and societal benefit. This year's conference was designed to inspire, challenge, and equip attendees with the knowledge to drive positive change in their industries.”

Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: 

“This conference addresses a very important issue. Artificial Intelligence is set to transform our society and our economy. AI will redefine job roles, create new industries, require new skills, and generate commercial opportunities for entrepreneurs.

"My department is taking action across these issues. I recently launched a Digital Skills Action Plan to help provide people with the skills needed in an AI economy. I have also invested £16.5m in an ‘AI Collaboration Centre’ which is being delivered in Belfast and Derry by Ulster University, supported by Queen’s. This investment is not only developing our AI skills capacity, but it is also offering fully funded support to accelerate AI adoption in business.  

“This AI revolution could happen very quickly. So, we must work collaboratively, to make sense of the coming change, manage the challenges, and harness the positive potential of this technology.”

Tomorrow (Friday, 4 October 2024), the AICC will host exclusive AI workshops at Ulster University, which are open to all AI Con 2024 conference attendees.

The full AI Con programme is available here.