From Strongest to Struggling: The State of Play at Stormont

By David McCann, Strategic Political Analyst at Brown O’Connor Public Affairs

The summer is nearly over. MLAs and Ministers will be getting ready for a new Assembly term. Already, we are seeing signs of the political fights and debates that are set to come up between now and Christmas.

How will the dispute over the Nutrient Action Programme be resolved? Will we see progress on the A5 and Casement Park? What will become of the anti-poverty strategy?

Executive Performance

The troublesome issues do not end in the policy sphere, as public perceptions of the Executive are low. Just 35% of people surveyed in the recent LucidTalk poll have a favourable attitude towards the performance of the Executive, which is down three points from the previous survey. The crisis of confidence in government delivery is not unique to the Starmer government; it is also impacting Stormont.

With 11 bills set to continue their progression through the Assembly in the next term, dealing with key issues such as the Mother and Baby Inquiry and Redress Scheme, the Fiscal Council and dilapidation of buildings, the Executive needs more bills on the books and fewer motions on the floor.

Sinn Féin

Each of the four Executive parties has different challenges to deal with over the coming months, and some are more profound than others. Sinn Féin is in the strongest position of all the Executive parties – Michelle O’Neill remains popular with nationalist voters, and the party, with a 26% rating, would be easily returned as the largest party. In fact, on these numbers, the party would hold their 27 seats and be in with a shout of potentially making gains in South Down and Upper Bann.

However, one thing the party needs to keep an eye on is the growing grumbling within sections of Nationalism about the purpose of the power-sharing institutions and whether they can ever work effectively. With three of Sinn Féin’s signature issues facing headwinds, they will need to be wary that they do not get tagged as a party that cannot deliver on key promises.

DUP

For the DUP, there is little upside in this poll, even though some of their ministers and MLAs have received some praise for their performances. At 17%, the party would likely lose a number of seats, particularly in constituencies where it holds more than one MLA. They face the prospect of returning to seat numbers that they have not seen since 1998, when they elected 20 MLAs. In a few weeks, the party will gather for its annual conference, marking the second year of the Gavin Robinson era.

Why does it matter for Unionist voters to stick with the DUP in 2027? The party needs to move the conversation away from the Irish Sea Border towards other issues that can motivate pro-union voters back toward the party.

Alliance Party

Unusually for the past number of years, Alliance is also under pressure. From 2013 to 2022, the party experienced a consistent rise, scoring significant wins and moving from 5th to 3rd place. In this poll, Alliance faces the prospect of losing some Assembly seats for the first time since 1998, albeit not in significant numbers, but enough to say the surge is over.

The party benefited for years from a mantra that attracted voters who were disillusioned with Stormont and wanted something better. Now that Alliance has two ministers at the Executive table, they need to demonstrate that better outcomes are achievable. Andrew Muir is standing his ground on Lough Neagh, but if his plan is blocked, what is Alliance’s plan B? Do they stay in or walk away?

UUP

The UUP continued to struggle at 11%, behind the TUV, with the prominence of holding the Health Ministry doing nothing to improve their fortunes, and the knowledge that their leader might not be around for much longer. The UUP’s conference in October will be a key event to watch, as it will reveal the party's direction ahead of the 2027 Assembly Election.

They say the only poll that matters is on election day, but all the parties will be taking stock from this one. As a new Assembly term begins and party conferences get underway, they will all be using this poll to decide their footing in the months ahead.

Over 150 young people turn out for cross community youth sports camp hosted by Cricket Ireland in Belfas

Chair of Cricket Ireland Brian MacNeice alongside Junior Ministers Aisling Reilly and Pam Cameron

More than 150 young people from across Belfast, the North West, and Donegal came together today at the Cricket Connects Camp, hosted by Cricket Ireland at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Stormont.

The one-day event saw participants from a wide range of sporting backgrounds — including GAA, hockey, and rugby — take part in fun, inclusive activities designed to promote physical activity, teamwork, and community connection. For many, it was their first time trying cricket, alongside opportunities to experience other sports such as hockey and GAA.

The Camp was attended by Junior Ministers Aisling Reilly and Pam Cameron, who met participants, coaches, and organisers, and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of the day.

The Cricket Connects Camp forms part of Cricket Ireland’s ongoing commitment to growing grassroots participation and working in partnership with other sporting bodies to break down barriers and create shared opportunities for young people to engage with physical activity.

Chair of Cricket Ireland Chair Brian MacNeice said:

“Cricket is one of the most welcoming sports in Ireland and we have a long, proud history of working collaboratively with other sporting bodies and community groups to encourage kids to get involved in physical activities.

“As a sport, cricket is for everyone, but while today’s camp offered a chance for many local kids to try cricket for the first time, it also allowed them to experience each other’s sports in a fun and supportive setting.

“Looking around us, what is obvious to me is the power of sport as a means to bring people together, promote inclusiveness and strengthen community bonds, particularly among the next generation.

“What is also evident is that the Belfast community has a wonderful shared community space here at NICSSA and cricket is honoured to be a key part of this multi-sport precinct. We are committed to support plans for future improvements here, and look forward to ensuring the local community can enjoy a diverse range of sports right in the heart of the Stormont Estate.

“This event was a true team effort to put together. We would like to thank Sport NI and the NI Government for their support, NICSSA for providing this fantastic venue and our sports industry partners for their enthusiasm and commitment. We also couldn’t have done it without the many cricket community volunteers, community partners and sponsors who ensured this year’s event went ahead in style.”

Junior Minister Aisling Reilly said:

“It is fantastic to see so many young people involved in this Cricket Ireland event and enjoying all the physical and mental benefits of taking part in sports. Through sports, children learn to be competitive, to strive to succeed and how to cope with the ups and downs of winning and losing . Today’s ‘Cricket Connects Camp’ is a great example of how sports can unite young people from different backgrounds and from across this island to a team and build new friendships.”  

Junior Minister Pam Cameron said: 

“I was delighted to be able to attend today’s Cricket Connects Camp and to meet with the young people taking part in the activities.

“We want to see a better shared future for everyone, and sport is such a powerful medium for bringing young people across Northern Ireland together and laying the foundations to build long-lasting friendships.

“I want to congratulate Cricket Ireland on hosting the event and their ongoing work in encouraging grassroots participation and helping to get more children involved in sport.”

Minister for the Economy visits NWRC to meet with students receiving exam results

Students celebrate outside NWRC as they collect their examination results.

Northern Ireland’s Minister for the Economy Dr Caoimhe Archibald has spent the morning at North West Regional College’s Strand Road campus celebrating with students receiving their exam results.

During the visit, Dr Archibald met with students who have just completed BTEC Level 3 qualifications at NWRC, Higher Education students, part time students, and alumni of the college who have gone on to graduate.

The Minister also met with the college’s senior management team to discuss the upcoming academic year and the introduction of new further and higher education courses at NWRC.

The Minister said: “I was delighted to be able to visit the North West Regional College to speak with, and congratulate students and staff on such an important day. It was encouraging to hear about the variety of courses available at NWRC and I would encourage students hoping to pursue their academic studies or begin a skills based or vocational career to speak to NWRC advisors about the options available. I wish everyone my very best wishes for their future studies.”

NWRC students celebrate their BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma examination results with the Minister for the Economy Dr. Caoimhe Archibald.

Leo Murphy, Principal and Chief Executive of NWRC, said: “The Minister received a warm welcome at NWRC today during an important event celebrating the achievements of our students.

“Our Level 3 Extended Diploma students have just completed examinations equivalent to three A-Levels. Some of these students will be staying on to pursue Higher Education courses at NWRC, while others are progressing to university.

“It’s been a hugely successful year at NWRC. Students who choose the college after GCSEs or A-Levels do so because of our longstanding reputation for preparing learners for the world of work. Our vocational courses offer a unique blend of academic study and real-world experience through work placements, giving students the opportunity to develop essential skills for their careers.

Leo Murphy, principal and chief executive of NWRC, congratulates BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma students with Louise Watson, Department for the Economy.

“Keeping up with industry trends, NWRC has expanded its already extensive portfolio of courses to include qualifications in Cyber Security, Higher-Level Apprenticeships, and Gaming, Animation, and VFX Skills.

“NWRC is proud to offer a diverse, inclusive, and safe environment for learning, with a wide range of staff available to provide help and support. We send our best wishes to all students receiving their examination results and look forward to welcoming our new cohort in September.”

Allwyn celebrates first lucky National Lottery retailer to ‘Share the Win’ in Northern Ireland

Steve Harrison, owner of Nisa in Bellevue Street and first Northern Ireland winner of ‘Share the Win’

• Belfast store owner named Northern Ireland’s first winner, scooping £10,000 for selling ‘high tier’ winning Scratchcard in his store

Allwyn, operator of The National Lottery, is celebrating the first lucky independent National Lottery retailer in Northern Ireland to scoop a prize in its ‘Share the Win’ initiative.  

Steven Harrison, owner of Nisa in Bellevue Street, Belfast, bagged the fantastic £10,000 ‘gold tier’ award. He sold a top prize National Lottery Scratchcard to a lucky player at his store, who will pocket £20,000 every month for five years. Steven becomes the first National Lottery retailer in Northern Ireland to take home a prize in the new ‘Share the Win’ rewards incentive from Allwyn and is now the proud owner of his new ‘Millionaire Made Here’ plaque and display.

The scheme, which launched in November 2024, awards retailers who sell high tier (£50,000 or more) winning National Lottery tickets – like EuroMillions, Lotto, and Thunderball, or National Lottery Scratchcards in their store.  

Allwyn's Director of Commercial Partnerships and Retail Sales, Alison Acquaye-Acford, said:

“Massive congratulations to Steven! I’m absolutely thrilled to be celebrating his £10,000 win and first ‘Share the Win’ store in Northern Ireland. Allwyn has awarded £269,000 in total to National Lottery ‘Share the Win’ retailers all over the UK, including Steven, so we’re extending that winning feeling and good fortune further than ever before. It’s wonderful that retailers are helping us to raise around £30 million every week for National Lottery-funded projects, while being in with a chance of winning huge prizes simply by selling tickets.”  

Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive Officer, Retail NI said:

“Congratulations to Steven for having one of the luckiest stories in the province. Retail is the backbone of our high streets across Northern Ireland, so it’s brilliant to hear how Allwyn is rewarding hard-working National Lottery retailers. At what is already a challenging and uncertain time for independent retailers, the revenue, commission, and footfall derived from selling The National Lottery is even more crucial. With the economic pressures facing our high streets, we should be doing all we can to protect and promote The National Lottery so that it can continue supporting retailers like Steven that serve their local communities each and every day.”

Steven Harrison said:

“I’m delighted to benefit from the win of one of our customers – it’s really good for business! We provide a service for the local community and can now promote ourselves as lucky – which further increases footfall instore. Our winnings will also allow us to go on a family holiday to our favourite place, Tenerife.” 

Share the Win is open to all National Lottery retailers where the winning ticketholder is happy to share details of their win. The retailer’s Share the Win prize is linked to the amount won by the playing customer.  

The three ‘Share the Win’ prize tiers for retailers are: 

• Gold tier - wins of £1 million or more will net lucky retailers the top prize of £10,000.

• Silver tier - wins of between £250,000 up to £1m will be worth £5,000 to shop owners.

• Bronze tier - wins of between £50,000 up to £250,000 will see retailers pocket £2,000.

With more Share the Win awards due in the coming months, National Lottery retailers can head to the National Lottery Retailer Hub – https://tnlpartners.co.uk – to ensure they're opted-in and don't miss out on this exciting opportunity. 

Meet Northern Ireland’s Changemakers: New Fellowship Cohort Announced

Matthew O'Neill, Institute of International and European Affairs; Zachary Hutchinson, Centre for Democracy and Peace; Anna McClung, Department of Justice; James Redmond, Department for Infrastructure; Sarah Carlisle, Queen's University Belfast. 

Twenty-eight leaders from across Northern Ireland have been named as the newest cohort in the Centre for Democracy and Peace’s Fellowship Programme.

Selected from a record number of applicants, this fifth cohort brings together individuals already making an impact in politics, business, the public sector, and civic society. Among them are politicians, entrepreneurs, senior civil servants, business leaders, cultural advocates, and community organisers.

With representation from five political parties and a wide range of sectors, the group reflects the diversity and ambition shaping Northern Ireland’s present and future. Over the next seven months, the Class of 2026 will take part in a transformative experience designed to strengthen their leadership, forge new connections, and explore the challenges and opportunities facing society today.

Now in its fifth year, the Fellowship is supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as well as leading employers including Camlin Group, FinTrU, Fujitsu NI, NIE Networks, Ulster Carpets, Allstate NI, and the Irish American Partnership.

Darragh McCarthy, Chair of the Fellowship Advisory Board, said:

“This year’s Fellows bring a remarkable breadth of experience and perspective. The Fellowship offers a unique space to explore ideas, challenge assumptions, and grow as leaders. I’m delighted to welcome this group and look forward to working alongside them in the months ahead.”

The Centre for Democracy and Peace Fellowship Programme Cohort 2025-26 are:

1. Gerard McDonald, SDLP

2. Emma Cairns, UUP

3. Lewis McVitty, UUP

4. Alderman Gareth Wilson, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council, DUP

5. Cllr Micky Murray, Belfast City Council, Alliance Party

6. Cllr Kathleen McGurk, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Sinn Féin

7. Kyle McMullan, Northern Ireland Electricity Networks

8. Claire McBride, Fujitsu

9. Jonathan Rogan, SQC Digital

10. Corrina Grimes, MemoryTell

11. Michael Boyd, MB Consulting and Coaching

12. Anna McClung, Department of Justice

13. Róisín McCreesh, Education Authority NI

14. Meadhbha Monaghan, Patient and Client Council NI

15. James Redmond, Department for Infrastructure

16. Aoibhinn Treanor, Northern Ireland Assembly

17. Rhyannon Blythe, Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission

18. Sean McQuade, Northern Health and Social Care Trust

19. Eilís Adamson, Public Prosecution Service NI

20. Joanna Braniff, The Rivers Trust

21. Brian Armstrong, Northern Ireland Alternatives

22. Steven Mills, NI Football League

23. Ola Sobieraj, the3million

24. Dr Matthew O'Neill, Institute of International & European Affairs

25. Sarah Carlisle, Queen's Orange Society

26. Lisa McGinley, The MAC Belfast

27. Gillian Hamilton, EastSide Partnership

28. Wendy Blemings, The National Gallery

The Class of 2026 begin their Fellowship journey at Parliament Buildings, Stormont, on Wednesday 3rd September before heading to Worcester College, Oxford, the following week for the first of two programme residentials.

Deputy Lord Mayor joins 450 young athletes at Belfast Summer Sports Day 2025

GLL Senior Regional Director Gareth Kirk; Logan Cathcart (age seven); Eady Molloy (aged ten); and Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Cllr Paul Doherty

Over 450 children from 11 different leisure centres across Belfast were joined by Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Cllr Paul Doherty, as they came together at the Ozone Complex in Ormeau Park for the annual Better Summer Sports Day. A celebration of sport, fun, and friendship for young people, the Belfast Summer Sports Day serves as the highlight of Better’s Summer Schemes, which have been attended by 2,800 children across Belfast this summer.  

Participating children were given the opportunity to try their hands at a range of sporting activities – tennis, netball, basketball, hockey, dodgeball, rugby, cricket, Gaelic football, football, fencing, athletics, sports day games, and tug of war, making new friends from across all parts of the city. Children were represented on the day from Brook, Olympia, Andersonstown, Avoniel, Templemore, Ballysillan, Shankill, Falls, Whiterock, Grove and Lisnasharragh leisure centres. 

The 2025 Better Summer Schemes have seen another record-breaking year, with 2,800 children attending programmes delivered at 13 of Belfast’s 16 Better leisure centres, operated by social enterprise, GLL. The summer scheme has also had a positive local economic impact, with a total of 78 Summer Scheme staff employed to ensure a safe and engaging experience for all participants. 

In addition to the main scheme, specialist camps including a gymnastics-specific camp and Active and Able programmes have supported a further 90 young people to get involved in physical activity this summer. 

Active and Able camps are designed specifically to support children and young people with learning or physical disabilities. Delivered in partnership with Active Youth NI, these inclusive and accessible camps are led by experienced, qualified coaches who ensure every participant can join in safely, actively, and enjoyably. Running across three centres during the summer, each daily session runs from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm, creating a supportive space where disabled young people have equitable access to sport and physical activity. 

Jonathan Michael, Regional Business Manager, GLL said: 

“It’s incredible to see so many young people out enjoying sport today. Our Summer Schemes are all about helping children stay active, build confidence, and form friendships that last beyond the summer. We’re proud of the inclusive and dynamic programme we’ve delivered this year – and days like today are the perfect way to celebrate it. 

“GLL’s mission is centred on expanding access, improving inclusivity, and ensuring that every child, regardless of ability or background, has the chance to enjoy the benefits of sport. The energy and enthusiasm we’ve seen this summer shows just how powerful these programmes can be in shaping positive experiences and building stronger communities.” 

Votes at 16: Northern Ireland's New Electoral Wild Card, By David McCann, Strategic Political Analyst at Brown O’Connor Public Affairs

The British government has announced its commitment to follow through on plans to lower the voting age to 16 years old. This will be the first time since 1970 that the franchise will change at a General Election, when another Labour government lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 years of age.

Northern Ireland is the only one of the devolved regions that does not allow 16- and 17-year-olds to vote in regional elections. Scotland lowered its voting age in 2014, with Wales following suit in 2021. However, with the announcement last week, that will change as the Secretary of State has the power under the Northern Ireland Act to extend the franchise. It is unlikely this will be ready for the 2027 Assembly Election, meaning it will be 2032 before 16-year-olds get a chance to cast a ballot for their MLAs.

Context

You may have heard concerns about how this could affect the outcomes of elections. I hate to break it to you, but 16- and 17-year-olds will make up around 2-3% of the entire electorate for future general elections across the UK. This is roughly the same for Northern Ireland – whilst thousands of new voters will have the chance to cast a ballot, it is unlikely that this cohort alone will determine whether Michelle O’Neill remains as First Minister or whether there will be a surge towards any particular party.  Political parties across Northern Ireland will still need to appeal to the traditional voting demographics to win seats at Westminster, the Assembly and Local Government.

The next general election will be the first contest where this age cohort will have the chance to vote. One of the risks of launching this initiative for a general election is that Northern Ireland typically has low turnouts at Westminster Elections. Just 57% of voters in Northern Ireland cast a vote in last July's election, one of the lowest turnouts in the UK. Likewise, in 2019, turnout in Northern Ireland was more than 5 points lower than the UK average. Between now and polling day, work needs to be done to ensure that this reform does not fall victim to broader lower turnout trends that we have witnessed at recent Westminster Elections.

Seats to watch

Whilst the impact is limited, three seats at Westminster are held by margins of 1,500 votes or less: East Londonderry (179 votes), North Antrim (450 votes) and East Antrim (1,306 votes). Two of these three seats are held by the DUP, with the TUV holding the North Antrim seat. It will be fascinating to see if the more “progressive” challengers in East Londonderry (Sinn Féin) and East Antrim (Alliance) can utilise this change to their electoral advantage.

There is an assumption that the younger you are, the more likely you are to lean toward progressive parties. With the success that more populist candidates on the continent and in the USA have had with younger voters, it will be interesting to see if Northern Ireland’s new voters throw any spanners in the electoral works and veer off in a direction that has not been considered.

STV

The real test for this change will come with the Assembly Election. Many of the last seats are decided by just a few hundred votes. In 2022, a number of seats were decided by fewer than 500 votes, and with transfers that can significantly influence the outcome, this cohort of voters has the opportunity to influence some races. Whether they turn out and choose to exercise their vote is the key question for which we do not have an answer.

Allowing 16- and 17-year-olds the opportunity to vote is a positive step that can increase participation but not upend the entire electoral process. However, it cannot be done in isolation. A broader political education piece of work needs to accompany this; otherwise, this bright new day will become a false dawn. Parties that successfully engage with these voters in 2029 have a real opportunity to establish a loyal base of new voters who could remain loyal to them for decades to come.

CGI supports Canada Day celebrations in Belfast

Photo Caption (L-R): Belfast City Councillor Michael Long, Ken Brundle, Honorary Canadian Consul for Northern Ireland; Pete Wilson CGI; Kyla Dittmar, Oui Poutine; Derbhile Kennedy, Director, CGI; Adam Keefe, Head Coach of the Belfast Giants.

CGI a leading global IT and business consulting services firm, supported this year’s Canada Day celebration in Belfast, hosted on Tuesday 1 July at local Canadian food business Oui Poutine.

Held in the city centre, the event was a celebration of Canadian culture, with attendees enjoying Canadian street food. Guests included Ken Brundle, Honorary Canadian Consul for Northern Ireland, Pete Wilson and Derbhile Kennedy, Directors, CGI; Kyla Dittmar, Oui Poutine; Adam Keefe, Head Coach of the Belfast Giants, Belfast City Councillor Michael Long and other members of Northern Ireland’s Canadian community, which now numbers over 12,000.

Chris Shorthouse, Vice President, Client Engagement for Northern Ireland at CGI said:

“As a company with deep Canadian roots and a strong local presence, we were delighted to support this community celebration. CGI is committed to being an active and positive presence in Northern Ireland, and events like this reflect the value of cultural connection, civic pride, and strong local partnerships.” 

CGI, founded in Montréal in 1976, has long believed in strengthening ties with the communities it serves. With established operations in Northern Ireland, the company delivers technology and business consulting services across both the public and private sectors.

 Ken Brundle, Honorary Canadian Consul for Northern Ireland, said:

“The Canada Day celebration was an opportunity to reflect on enduring links between Canada and Northern Ireland. It was great to come together to share and enjoy Canadian food and culture in Belfast and we are grateful for the support of organisations like CGI that help make these community celebrations possible.”

The event highlighted the growing visibility of the Canadian community in Northern Ireland and its contribution to local life and culture.

New Documentary by Trevor Birney ‘The Negotiator’ to screen at Ireland’s premier film festival

Senator George Mitchell and Trevor Birney at the premiere screening of The Negotiator in Belfast

The Negotiator - which examines the life and work of the man credited for bringing the Good Friday Agreement into being, Senator George Mitchell, has been announced as a major new addition to the Galway Film Fleadh, Ireland’s leading film event. 

The Fine Point Films documentary, directed by journalist and filmmaker Trevor Birney (No Stone Unturned; Quinn Country, Cyndi Lauper: Let the Canary Sing, Kneecap) and developed in association with Queen’s University Belfast, follows Birney as he profiles US Senator George Mitchell, whose leadership in securing the Good Friday Agreement transformed life for entire generations in Northern Ireland.

The Negotiator will join Fine Point Films other 2025 film Boy George and Culture Club, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in May, at the festival. 

The Negotiator is a timely, powerful, and deeply personal feature documentary that will bring a vital perspective to the Galway Film Fleadh, which has chosen to spotlight the urgent issues it raises.

Producer of the BAFTA winning, Kneecap and Emmy-nominated founder of Fine Point Films, Trevor Birney, Director of The Negotiator said:

"We’re honoured that The Negotiator has been invited to screen at the 37th Galway Film Fleadh. This welcome is not only a recognition of the pressing issues explored in the film, but also of the enduring example offered by Senator Mitchell.

“The Negotiator serves as both a tribute to Senator Mitchell’s extraordinary role in Northern Ireland and a timely reminder of what true diplomacy can achieve.”

Produced by Stephen Douds and Andrew Tully, The Negotiator explores the art of political negotiation and the quest for lasting peace.

The Negotiator will screen at the Pálás Cinema on Friday, morning the 11 July at 09:30, and is expected to generate significant interest among audiences and media alike. Boy George and Culture Club will screen at the Town Hall Theatre on 11 July at 22:30.

Bookings for both Fine Point Film screenings at galwayfilmfleadh.com, or explore the full programme, including screenings, Q&As, filmmaker interviews, panel discussions, and more, at galwayfilmfleadh.com, or contact the Town Hall Theatre box office at 091 569777.

The festival is supported by the Arts Council of Ireland, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, TG4, Coimisiún na Meán, Galway City Council, and Fáilte Ireland.

Slew of awards for best in class as Docs Ireland festival draws to a close

Stuart Sloan from Docs Ireland presents the Pull Focus Irish Documentary Award to Myrid Carten for her debut feature,  A Want In Her.

A number of awards for the best in new documentary film-making have been awarded to a host of Irish and international film-makers, as the curtain draws to a close on the seventh annual Docs Ireland film festival.

Dedicated to platforming the best in new Irish documentary, this year’s annual Pull Focus Irish Documentary Competition went to Myrid Carten for her debut feature,  A Want In Her. The jury were enthralled by the film and selected it “for its painfully honest portrait of mother-daughter relationship, in the shadow of addiction, and a creative new voice in documentary filmmaking”.

Established at Docs Ireland 2019, the Northern Ireland Screen Pitch is one of the festival’s flagstaff industry events and has ushered a wealth of non-fiction talent through the process of developing their feature documentaries. This year the jury selected The Loneliest Boy in the World by Medb Johnstone and Ann Ni Chiobhain.

The jury said, “as a story that looks beyond the headlines to reckon with history The Loneliest Boy in the World has the potential to weave a personal account with a political address - we hope this prize allows the filmmakers to dive deeper into their narrative research and establish a strong visual treatment of this historical story.”

This year the festival recognised acclaimed Irish cinematographer, stills photographer and documentary director Ross McDonnell, who tragically lost his life in 2023 with the Ross McDonnell Award for Best Cinematography in an Irish Feature. The inaugural award was given to Paddy Hayes for his Irish language film, David Keenan: Focla Ar Chanbhás / Words On Canvas.

The winner of the Short Competition was Ross McClean for No Mean City, with an Honorable Mention to Dennis Harvey for his film, The New Policy Regarding Asylum Seekers.

The LUMI Programmers jury winner was Ruairi Bradley, We Beg To Differ and an Honorable Mention was given to Meg Earls for It All comes Down.

Finally, the Maysles Award for Best in International Observational Documentary was awarded this year to Polish film, Silent Trees, directed by Agnieszka Zwiefka.

Director of Docs Ireland, Michele Devlin said: “Every year we are blown away by the standard of filmmaking at Docs Ireland. The reason we established this documentary-focused festival is to shine a light on Irish talent and to nurture it and support it. I would like to thank everyone who submitted films this year, those who participated on various jury panels and to all our event sponsors for making our seventh year such a success.”

Docs Ireland is supported by Northern Ireland Screen through the Department for Communities, Belfast City Council, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, BFI/Film Hub NI, and British Council and is proudly sponsored by TG4, BBC NI, Yellowmoon, FinePoint Films and Stellify Media.