Belfast Venues Set to Eliminate Single Use Plastic Cups in UK First

Belfast’s entertainment venues have joined forces to eliminate single use plastic cups at gigs and events in 2025. The move aims to remove 2 million single use plastic cups from nights out in Belfast and eliminate 40 tons of plastic waste annually. Pictured with the new cups (l-r) are:

Charlotte Dryden, Oh Yeah Centre, Stephen Murray, Hospitality Belfast, Kathryn McShane, the Black Box, Danielle Mulhern, the MAC, Alistair McIlveen, North Down Marquees, Jac Callan, Visit Belfast, Iain Bell, ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall, Ulster Hall and Dermot McGinn, The SSE Arena.

Photo credit: Darren Kidd, Press Eye

Belfast’s entertainment venues have joined forces in a drive to eliminate single use plastic cups at gigs and events in 2025.

The move aims to remove 2 million single use plastic cups from nights out in Belfast and eliminate 40 tons of plastic waste annually.

It’s set to be the first multi-venue scheme of this kind in the UK and Ireland.

The Waterfront Hall, Ulster Hall, The SSE Arena, Oh Yeah Centre, Black Box, Voodoo and The MAC have all invested in the scheme and will introduce reusable cups over the coming months. Other venues are lined up to join the next phase of the citywide rollout.

The 12-month pilot is being driven by the Venue Sustainability Forum (VSF), chaired by Wilton Farrelly, Non-Executive Director of Belfast Waterfront and Ulster Hall Ltd and supported by Visit Belfast.

Iain Bell, Acting Chief Executive of ICC Belfast, Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall said:

“The task force behind this brilliant new initiative, the Venue Sustainability Forum, are setting out to tackle one of the biggest sustainability challenges affecting us all – single use plastic.

“The switch from glass to plastic remains an important health and safety concern for gigs and entertainment venues, so this is a very positive step towards a solution which addresses both safety and sustainability.”

The participating organisations will partner with North Down Marquees, who will deliver the reusable cups to the venues and pick up used ones, which will be washed in a central washing facility in Carryduff, before being redistributed again.

The SSE Arena will be the first participating venue to implement the use of reusable cups, with the scheme coming into effect from mid-January.

Dermot McGinn, Group Head of Food and Beverage at The Odyssey Trust, said:

“The SSE Arena, Belfast is proud to be the first venue involved in this trial to implement reusable cups. As Northern Ireland’s premier entertainment destination, we are committed to providing customers with the best experience every time while also minimising our environmental impact wherever possible. We are pleased to work alongside other forward-thinking venues to tackle single-use plastic waste and support a more sustainable future for entertainment in Northern Ireland.”

Charlotte Dryden, CEO of the Oh Yeah Centre, said: 

“Oh Yeah is delighted to be involved in the Belfast Reusable Cup initiative. As a grassroots music venue, sustainability is at the top of not just our organisation's agenda but also our community's agenda. This reduction in single use plastic is a brilliant success for venues and Belfast as a city.”

Kathryn McShane, Director of the Black Box, said:

“The joint effort in bringing Belfast's reusable cup scheme for venues has been amazing. We've never liked using single use cups for our standing events at The Black Box, and have been trying to find an alternative for the last number of years, but until now there hasn't been another option that's feasible for us. The positive impact of the reusable cup scheme for The Black Box and for other venues in the City will be huge. It will almost eradicate our need to use any single use plastics in the venue, will drastically reduce our waste and allow our audiences to make more sustainable choices.”

Emmett Ross, Facilities Manager at The MAC, said:

“At the MAC, we are passionate about implementing our artistic and cultural activities as sustainably as possible. In fact, our organisational focus for 25/26 will be 'Climate in Action', meaning this is a perfect time for us to take part in the Belfast Reusable Cup Pilot. We are very proud to be a part of the collaborative group of organisations bringing this scheme to life, and we believe this city-wide initiative shows what can be achieved when organisations have a joint ambition to make a positive change for the future."

Alistair McIlveen of North Down Marquees, said:

“North Down Marquees are thrilled to be on the team that’s helping deliver a SUP (Single Use Plastic) Free Belfast!”

Jac Callan, Senior Manager of Sustainability and Impact at Visit Belfast, said:

“Visit Belfast is delighted to welcome this innovative initiative and to see a diverse range of venues - from grassroots music venues to large arenas - investing in solutions to reduce the events industry’s environmental impact. This collaborative approach not only helps Belfast remain competitive as an events destination but also plays a pivotal role in reducing single use plastics and driving meaningful environmental change.”

Keir Starmer announces AI Opportunities Action Plan

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer MP and Peter Kyle MP, the Secretary of State for Innovation, Science and Technology, have published the Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan.

The UK is currently the 3rd largest AI market globally. This Action Plan has been devised by the Government to signpost how the UK will shape the AI revolution now and in the future.

Laying the Foundations to enable AI

Data Centres form an integral part of the Government’s Action Plan to drive innovation and growth in the AI sector. The report states how the Government will establish AI Growth Zones (AIGZs) to facilitate the accelerated build out of AI data centres, which will include:

• introducing a streamlined planning approvals process and accelerating the provisioning of clean power;

• using AIGZs to drive local rejuvenation, channeling investment into areas with ‘existing energy capacity’;

• quickly nominating at least one AIGZ and working with local regions to secure buy-in for further AIGZs that will contribute to local needs and;

• considering other measures to accelerate buildout of data centres, such as offering central guidance, creating a bespoke planning use-class and considering the case for AI data centres to be eligible for relevant relief schemes that incentivise private sector investment.

Industrial Strategy

The AI Opportunities Action Plan also states how the Government intends to interlink AI with the upcoming Industrial Strategy to create a long-term planning strategy for AI and other technologies.

The Secretary of State Peter Kyle will make a Ministerial Statement on the AI Opportunities Action Plan to the House of Commons this afternoon, after 3:30PM.

Driving Net Zero Transformation - Mid-South West Economic Engine

Businesses in the Mid South West Region are being encouraged to make sustainability their New Year’s resolution by signing up for free support through the Net Zero Transformation Programme, with 50 places currently available to help fast-track the development of action plans.

The Mid South West (MSW) Region Net Zero Transformation Programme, funded by Innovate UK, is designed to help local SMEs reduce carbon emissions and work towards their net zero goals.

One business which has already benefitted from the programme is Mac Zero Modular Buildings, a company based in Dungannon founded by siblings Orla McAvoy Corr and Conor McAvoy.

“Our journey on the programme has been really positive for us as a business and left us with a clear and tangible action plan.”

• Orla McAvoy Corr, Mac Zero

Director Orla McAvoy Corr said:

“We have helped thousands of pupils to #movetozero with new modular extensions to schools throughout Ireland, and as a business, the time was right to engage with MSW Region on the Net Zero Transformation Programme to create our own sustainable plan to enable Mac Zero to #movetozero.

“By participating in the MSW Net Zero Transformation programme, we worked with carbonfit to complete comprehensive assessments of our emissions. We now have baseline measurements, a plan and a timeline, which will significantly reduce our emissions.

“The tracking of emissions and need for a sustainability plan will soon be required by all businesses, and the MSW Net Zero Transformation programme offers companies a clear route in which to achieve this.”

Ninety businesses in total across the three council areas will benefit from bespoke one-to-one Net Zero baseline and action plan development, working directly with the Delivery Partner Carbonfit.

Participating businesses can access:

• Carbon reporting software, expert workshops, and tailored decarbonisation plans.

• Guidance on low-carbon technologies, funding options, and operational efficiency.

• Tools to achieve sustainability goals and enhance market competitiveness.

• Insights to identify key emission sources and implement energy-efficient practices.

• Support to explore renewable energy solutions.

• Focus on understanding and addressing Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.

The MSW Region councils (Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Fermanagh and Omagh and Mid Ulster District Council) are among 21 Local Authority areas from across the UK to receive a share of £6m funding to support progress towards Net Zero.

Chair of the MSW Region Governance Steering Group, Kevin Savage said:

“Mac Zero’s testimonial really highlights the benefits for businesses who sign up for our free Net Zero Transformation Programme.

“There are 50 places remaining and I would highly encourage anyone thinking about how they can implement sustainable practices and reduce their carbon emissions to get in touch.

“This is an opportunity to gain advice from the experts on meeting your environmental commitments, so make sure not to miss it and register now at  https://midsouthwestregion.org/net-zero-transformation/.”

“We are no longer invisible”: Northern Ireland amongst the first in the world to produce estimates of people living with metastatic breast cancer

A new study funded by Cancer Focus Northern Ireland and published today in JAMA Network Open estimates there are around 250 patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer annually in Northern Ireland, and almost 1,000 patients are currently living with the disease.

This landmark study of Northern Ireland's patients with metastatic breast cancer, often referred to as secondary breast cancer, will help policy makers improve services for this patient group.

Metastatic breast cancer is incurable and occurs when breast cancer spreads to another part of the body such as the liver, lungs, brain, or bones. The average survival is two to three years for metastatic breast cancer patients.

Crucially, patients with secondary breast cancer are not routinely counted in Cancer Registries worldwide, leaving this group of patients feeling overlooked and forgotten.

Today’s research aligns with the international Lancet Breast Cancer Commission’s Call for Action to improve data on metastatic breast cancer patients. The Commission highlighted that because the number of people living with metastatic breast cancer is unknown, patients may not receive optimal care and access to clinical research.

Led by Dr Damien Bennett, Director of the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry (NICR), analysts Sinéad Hawkins and Helen Mitchell, and other NICR staff, this groundbreaking study provides new information on people living with the disease in Northern Ireland.

Dr Damien Bennett explains: “Although we have good data on first breast cancers, we do not have the same data on secondary breast cancers, which come back after the first diagnosis. This was a real gap in our knowledge which has implications for patients. Now, for the first time in the UK, Ireland, and indeed in most parts of the world, we have produced estimates of new and existing cases of metastatic breast cancer for a whole country using population-based cancer registry data” . 

"We linked cancer registry data with hospital data and reviewed detailed information recorded on death records to identify cases. We estimate an average of 250 new metastatic breast cancer cases each year and just below 1,000 people living with the disease at the end of 2021. Importantly, we estimate the numbers of people living with metastatic breast cancer has increased over time, from 587 in 2009 to 911 in 2020, suggesting metastatic breast cancer patients are living longer, which may be related to new targeted treatments.  However, while it is a great step forward to produce these estimates based on past records, there is no substitute for prospective recording and collection of cancer recurrences by cancer registries, which will require resources”.

The study was funded by the cancer charity, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland.

Richard Spratt, Chief Executive of Cancer Focus NI said: “This groundbreaking research represents a pivotal moment for metastatic breast cancer patients. We are immensely proud to have funded a study that recognises these overlooked patients and which directly addresses a critical gap in cancer data and intelligence. I would like to acknowledge people who were instrumental in advocating for this research, notably Ann McBrien and also Julie Anne Lillis who sadly is no longer with us. This landmark study is not just about numbers – it's about giving voice to those who have been forgotten and to those patients who have gone before us, such as Julie Anne. This is only the first step towards transforming care and support for metastatic breast cancer patients across Northern Ireland, and I am delighted to announce that Cancer Focus NI will be holding two support days in Spring 2025 for anyone with a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis, one in the East and one in the West of the country.’’

A special thanks is documented in the research paper to patients Ann McBrien and Julie Anne Lillis who campaigned for metastatic breast cancer patients in Northern Ireland to be counted, and a clinical audit of their care carried out.

Metastatic breast cancer patient Ann McBrien, who previously worked as an accountant in the NHS, explained: “I was diagnosed with primary breast cancer in 2013, but in 2019 my cancer came back in my lungs as metastatic breast cancer. I was shocked to find that cancer reoccurrences are not identified in the Cancer Registry’s statistics. This leaves patients feeling invisible and left behind. Knowing the importance of data to plan and allocate the correct resources to treatments and care, I wanted to do something to address this information gap. Julie Anne and I approached Cancer Focus NI and I am extremely grateful that the charity responded to our campaign and funded this important work.’’

“After lobbying for the audit, and working with the NI Cancer Registry on the findings, publication of this research gives me a great sense of achievement – we are no longer invisible. However, the advocacy work goes on. Determining the data was just the first step, the real focus is using the data to drive optimal outcomes for metastatic breast cancer patients. I am now asking the Department of Health to apply this data and develop a metastatic breast cancer pathway, with appropriate supports for patients across Northern Ireland. I also hope that this research, which focuses on breast cancer, will lead the way for improvements in data for all cancer patients with metastatic disease.’’

Stuart McIntosh, consultant breast surgeon, and Professor of Surgical Oncology at the Patrick G Johnston Centre of Cancer Research at Queens University, is a member of the Lancet Breast Cancer Commission which made the recommendations to drive up standards in metastatic breast cancer care and improve the experiences and outcomes for people living with the disease.

Stuart McIntosh said: “I am pleased to see Northern Ireland respond to the Commission’s recommendation for metastatic breast cancer data collection.  The Northern Ireland Cancer Registry has carried out excellent work in a short space of time and I am hopeful that the information gained will now be used by policy makers at the Department of Health.

“I am also cognisant of the fact that this initiative was driven by patients who campaigned for it, and appreciate the tireless work of Ann McBrien who has worked with the Registry team and co-authored the research publication. This is a fine example of patients driving forward change that will have benefits for many now, and in the future”.

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.”