Brown O'Connor Communications Weekly Look Ahead: Week Commencing 11 January 2021

Updated Twitter Card 1.jpg

Forward Look

  • The NI Assembly is expected to return to plenary sessions on Monday 18 January, however there will be a number of committee meetings next week.

  • The NI Executive has agreed to introduce a legally enforceable stay at home order in an increased effort to stop the spread of Covid-19. The Executive will meet at 10am today to make final decisions on transfer tests and clarify rules on outdoor gatherings. The PSNI will have powers to direct people home if they do not have a reasonable excuse to be out of their home, with the power to issue £200 fixed penalty notices.

  • Schools will operate a remote learning system until the February mid-term, workers are being strongly encouraged to work from home unless unable to do so, and Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon MLA has announced that Translink will operate a reduced timetable of essential services. The restrictions will be in place until 6 February and will be reviewed on 21 January.

  • Education Minister Peter Weir MLA announced this week that GCSE, AS, and A Level examinations in Northern Ireland are cancelled this year. He said plans for awarding arrangements to replace the exams would be finalised before the end of January.

  • The Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid vaccine was rolled out for the first time across the UK this week. 160,000 doses of this vaccine will be delivered to Northern Ireland by the end of January. More than 46,000 first doses have been administered according to the Department of Health. The flu vaccination programme in NI is also being further expanded to include those aged 50-64.

  • Economy Minister Diane Dodds MLA has written to Cabinet Office Secretary Michael Gove to call for urgent action to be taken on deliveries to Northern Ireland. Minister Dodds has also announced the roll out of the £10.6m traditional non-food serving pubs Business Support Scheme from Monday 11 January.

  • The 2023 Review of Parliamentary Constituencies, announced earlier this week by the Boundary Commission, has announced that NI will retain its 18 Westminster seats going into the next general election. Seats in England will increase while Scotland and Wales will lose some.

  • The Education Committee will receive a ministerial briefing on exam contingency plans on Wednesday 13 January.

  • The Infrastructure Committee will receive a departmental briefing on the taxi financial assistance scheme on Wednesday 13 January.

  • The Executive Office Committee will receive a briefing from the First and deputy First Ministers on Wednesday 13 January, as well as a departmental briefing on the impact of Brexit on the institutions and North-South and East-West relationships.

  • Health Minister Robin Swann MLA will brief the Health Committee on Thursday 14 January with an update on the response to Covid-19.

  • The DAERA Committee will receive a departmental briefing on EU transition and priorities for 2021 on Thursday 14 January.

  • The All Party Group on Cancer will meet virtually on Tuesday 12 January.

Other Stories this week

  • The Consumer Council has appointed Noyona Chundur as its news Chief Executive.

  • Former Goldman Sachs banker Richard Sharp is set to be named the BBC’s next Chairman.

  • First Minister Arlene Foster MLA has said there is a “gateway of opportunity for the whole of the UK and for NI” after the EU-UK trade deal. This comes as business groups warned the NI Affairs Committee on Wednesday that traders selling goods between NI and GB will face “real hardships” in the coming weeks.

  • US Special Envoy to NI Mick Mulvaney has resigned from his post.

  • No 10’s planned daily televised briefings, led by Allegra Stratton, have been postponed again due to the new lockdown.

  • Dana Strong is to replace Jeremy Darroch as Chief Executive of Sky.

Upcoming key political and business events

Consultations

NI can remain fertile ground for private equity investment in 2021 - writes Richard Kyle, Partner, Corporate, Eversheds Sutherland

Richard Kyle, Partner, Corporate, Eversheds Sutherland

Richard Kyle, Partner, Corporate, Eversheds Sutherland

During the summer, Eversheds Sutherland Private Equity specialists published a series of weekly bitesize articles focusing on issues likely to be relevant to investors and their portfolio companies at that time and in the future.

Despite some good predictions, some are still to play out. When I think back to that time, a number of clients had FOMO (the Fear Of Missing Out) on good quality businesses, but deal volume had certainly slowed down. September came, schools returned, and our phones started to ring off the hook to ask for support on new processes. It felt like a normal September and the run into Christmas has been as busy as ever - if not more so.

In terms of the issues and challenges that we anticipated, we have advised sponsors on steps taken to protect their portfolio companies and “right-size” debt; advised directors on their duties and the change of emphasis on those duties when businesses start to tip towards insolvency;  and portfolio companies on their applications for CBILS and good tax housekeeping to maximise cashflow.

We have seen lenders remain open for business, and debt funds continuing to be relevant and provide alternative lending solutions to the market. In relation to deal processes, as we expected, the businesses of the highest quality in the healthcare and technology spaces have driven incredibly competitive processes and high multiples, with deal certainty, flexibility, and speed of execution being key determining factors in the success of bids.

As we move into 2021, I expect to see deal activity remain high. Sponsors still have cash to invest and deployment targets to meet. Vendors - perhaps fatigued by dealing with the impact of Brexit, then Covid and with the upcoming anticipated changes to CGT - may be very much ready to sell and complete disposals by the end of February 2021.

Whilst we have sadly witnessed some businesses fail, we believe as government funding continues to tail off, we will start to see opportunities for special situations and turnaround investors to step in and support really strong businesses across other sectors that would have continued on strong growth trajectories but for the pandemic.

For Northern Ireland, the unknown longer-term implications of what is ultimately agreed as result of Brexit will of course be relevant. Focusing on the known positives, the quality of our businesses, and the people who run those businesses, the great work of indigenous funds like Crescent Capital and Clarendon Fund Managers to support entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, and the investments made by funds like H2 Equity Partners, Perwyn, LDC and BGF, I believe that Northern Ireland will remain a fertile investment location for private equity investors throughout 2021.

I am quietly optimistic about what next year can bring. The roll out of the vaccine, a return to semi-normality and, from a personal and professional perspective, to continue to see NI businesses flourish and private equity investment remain at the heart of M&A activity for the next 12 months and beyond.

Hospitality Ulster says hospitality sector here can help get the ‘jab done’

Colin Neill, Chief Executive, Hospitality Ulster

Colin Neill, Chief Executive, Hospitality Ulster

Hospitality Ulster has said that the hospitality sector is ready, willing and able to help the local health service get the ‘jab done’ by offering up closed hospitality premises to assist with the roll out of the Covid-19 vaccination programme in Northern Ireland.

The organisation has said that with the lockdown in place, our pubs, restaurants and hotels are ideally placed to provide community-based venues as vaccination centres. As refrigeration and extensive Covid secure measures are already in place, they could serve a vital purpose to help alleviate pressures at GP surgeries and other clinical settings. Hospitality Ulster has now written to the Health Minister Robin Swann with the offer.

Colin Neill, Chief Executive, Hospitality Ulster said:

“The hospitality sector has had an awful 10 months, but we still want to make sure that we can play our part in helping the roll out of the vaccination programme.”

“Throughout the crisis, the hospitality industry has done everything asked of it and more to provide a Covid secure environment for our staff and customers. Businesses in the sector have spent thousands upon thousands of pounds setting up structures and systems to protect staff and customers which ironically could now be ideal for the management and flow of people ensuring that they are safe as they get the jab.”

“Offering up hospitality venues in local community settings as vaccination centres is the right thing to do to at this time of extreme need. They are sitting vacant with extensive refrigeration facilities for the vaccine and with further pressures expected to be heaped upon the health service they could serve a great community purpose.”

“We have written to the Health Minister Robin Swann and his team our offer of help and will provide every assistance possible if he takes us up.”

Keith and Kristyn Getty head to Derry/Londonderry to record special Christmas Hymn Sing and to honour hymnwriter Cecil Frances Alexander

Keith and Kristyn Getty with their four daughters.

Keith and Kristyn Getty with their four daughters.

World renowned Northern Ireland hymnwriters, Keith and Keith Getty have travelled to St Columb’s Cathedral, Derry/Londonderry with their four daughters, to honour hymnwriter Cecil Frances Alexander by recording some Christmas hymns for a special Christmas Family Hymn Sing.

The hymn ‘Once in Royal David’s City’, and many other great hymns of faith including ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’, were written by Cecil Frances Alexander who was married to the Bishop of Derry and Raphoe.

Known for their landmark musical concerts, Sing Global, Keith and Kristyn are taking their live music online and hosting a Christmas Family Hymn Sing, that will be available on their Facebook and You Tube channels for all of Christmas week.

The free online musical event is aimed at bringing the hope and peace of Christ’s birth to the whole community at this difficult time.

As for many in the music industry, the pandemic redefined every part of the Getty’s work.

The talented musicians wanted to reach out and help people through their music. In the summer, Kristyn Getty launched her “Evensong” album to give people hymns and lullabies to help them through these difficult times. This album knocked Disney’s Frozen 2 soundtrack off the top spot in the US Kid’s Album chart.

Continuing their landmark event online, Sing Global in August was attended by over 16,000 full registrants with over 60,000 as part of the global audience in seven languages. This year, the Getty’s Family Hymn Sings had over 6 million viewers and became a 22-part series on American TV.

As the pandemic worsens again and Northern Ireland faces another lockdown, the Getty’s hope to bring some peace and comfort to people with festive hymns and music.

Speaking ahead of the carol service Keith Getty OBE said:

“Coronavirus has impacted every aspect of life, with this Christmas being very different from any other year. However, the power of music and song still stands tall, bringing emotions of hope, joy and peace – something we all need this year.

“We are thrilled to be honouring a legend of hymn writing. Cecil Frances Alexander’s music transcends time and still holds prominence in today’s Christian faith. Her Christmas Hymn ‘Once in Royal David City’ stunningly tells the story of Jesus’ birth, and acts as a reminder of the miracle of Christmas.

“This year has shown the very best in people, especially the incredible frontline workers. Our carol service is a small token of gratitude and an opportunity to say thank you through song and worship. We hope people across Northern Ireland join us to celebrate the birth of Christ and spread some festive joy in a very unusual Christmas.”

The Getty’s also hope to raise money for Voice of the Martyrs in aid of Christians around the world who are being persecuted.

The Festive Family Sing will be available on Keith and Kristyn Getty Facebook and You Tube pages from Tuesday 22 December and will be online and available to watch throughout the Christmas week. 

 

Brown O'Connor Communications Weekly Look Ahead: Week Commencing 21 December 2020

Updated Twitter Card 1.jpg

Forward Look

  • The NI Executive has agreed to a six week lockdown to begin on Boxing Day. All non-essential retail will close from the end of trading on Christmas Eve along with close contact services, and pubs, cafes and restaurants will be restricted to takeaway services. Health Minister, Robin Swann MLA is to make an oral statement to Assembly on Monday setting out the regulations in full.

  • The Chancellor Rishi Sunak MP has extended the furlough scheme for an additional month, expiring at the end of April. In addition, the UK’s £68 billion Covid emergency loan schemes have been extended, including the Coronavirus Bounce Back Loan Scheme and the Business Interruption Loan Scheme.

  • The Chancellor has also announced that the Budget will take place on Wednesday 3 March.

  • Intensive talks between the UK and the EU are set to continue with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating that a “narrow path” to a deal has opened up, whilst disagreement remains on fisheries and fair competition. The European Parliament has said that a deal is needed by Sunday if a deal is to be ratified this year.

  • Finance Minister Conor Murphy MLA has announced that a £20.5 million Dormant Accounts Fund is to open for applications in January and provide multi-year grants to support the voluntary, community and social enterprises sectors.

  • The NI Assembly will rise for Christmas recess on Tuesday, and is expected to return on Monday 18 January.

  • The Health Committee will meet next Tuesday to hear an update from Minister Robin Swann MLA on the Covid-19 response.

  • Economy Minister Diane Dodds MLA has warned that her department is facing a £70 million shortfall in 2021-22 with informal indications suggesting that NI’s Shared Prosperity Funding allocation will be £11 million.

  • Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey MLA has returned to her post, outlining her key priorities for 2021 which include progressing changes current liquor licensing and gambling laws.

  • Education Minister Peter Weir MLA has outlined the terms of reference for an independent review into education in Northern Ireland. It is expected that panel members will be appointed by next May with an interim report to be provided within 12 months.

  • Health Minister Robin Swann MLA announced a public consultation into legislative options to bring forward a new Adult Protection Bill. Deadline for responses is Thursday 11 March. To respond: LINK

  • The Harbours (Grants and Loans Limit) Bill had its Consideration Stage this week with the Further Consideration stage to follow when the Assembly returns. The bill would increase the level of grants given to harbours and seaports from the Department of Infrastructure.

  • The next North/South Ministerial Council meeting on health and food safety will take place in early 2021. The next meeting on trade and development is scheduled for spring 2021.

  • The new All-Party Group on Press Freedom and Media Sustainability is to meet for the first time today, chaired by Matthew O’Toole MLA.

Other Stories this week

  • The Northern Ireland Office has announced that £3 million will be allocated towards NI centenary funding.

  • Rachel Woods MLA has moved a public petition for legislation to be brought forward by the DAERA Minister outlawing puppy farming in Northern Ireland.

  • The NI Statistics and Research Agency has published the latest economic output statistics for 2020. The report can be viewed HERE.

  • Tourism Ireland has announced plans to re-launch the island of Ireland as a key tourist destination following the impacts of Covid-19 on the sector.

  • Sinn Féin’s Aine McCabe has been co-opted to Belfast City Council for the Black Mountain DEA, replacing party colleague Emma Groves.

  • The Bank of England has published its Financial Stability Report setting out the Financial Policy Committee’s view on the current stability of the UK financial system.

Upcoming key political and business events

Consultations

Derry Chamber reacts to latest harsh lockdown

Paul Clancy, CEO, Derry Chamber

Paul Clancy, CEO, Derry Chamber

Commenting after the Executive’s announcement of a strict six-week lockdown from Boxing Day, Londonderry Chamber Chief Executive Paul Clancy said:

“Another strict lockdown, akin to what we experienced in March, is yet another bitter blow to our local businesses. Again, traders are forced to shut their doors to customers and at what is traditionally the toughest trading period of the year.

“After nearly a year of this crisis, it is regrettable that the Executive does not seem to have any other means to deal with the pandemic other than shutting down the economy over and over.

“Business owners are adaptable and flexible by their nature and will comply with these latest set of restrictions but the Executive must ensure that financial support reaches them as quickly as possible. Any further delays will result in lost jobs and permanently closed businesses.

“While we do not disagree with the urgent need for interventions to support our hospitals and healthcare workers which are under severe strain, it can’t be the case that small businesses bear the brunt of the restrictions every time. We all have our part to play in driving cases of the virus back down and I would encourage everyone to continue social distancing, washing their hands regularly, and wearing a mask where necessary.

“The Executive needs to develop, as a matter of priority, a more strategic and sustainable way to deal with the rise in cases, a strategy which will protect jobs and livelihoods alongside lives and the health service.”

Cross Border Workers Coalition welcomes Irish Finance Minister commitment to examine taxation issue 

Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe TD responds to questions from Pearse Doherty TD on Cross Border Workers taxation issues in the Dail 

Irish Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe

Irish Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe

The leadership of the Cross Border Workers Coalition (CBWC) has welcomed the recent commitment by the Irish Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe TD to examine the taxation issues facing cross-border workers early next year.  

The Minister made this commitment in response to an amendment which was tabled at Report Stage of the Finance Bill by Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson and Donegal TD, Pearse Doherty calling on the Irish Government to prepare and lay before Dáil Éireann a report on the operation of income tax relief for cross-border workers under section 825A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997.  

The Cross Border Workers Coalition was set up in response to the fact that employees who live in the Republic of Ireland but work in Northern Ireland are largely prohibited from remote working and are subject to a ‘double tax’ on their income should it be determined that they have worked from home or within the Republic of Ireland.  

Since early summer, the coalition has been calling on the Irish Government to urgently review the situation and to take advantage of the opportunity that has arisen during the coronavirus crisis when all companies across the island of Ireland instructed their staff to work from home as the pandemic took hold.  

Despite the Irish Revenue Commissioners granting a temporary exemption for the duration of the pandemic, there is a growing realisation that a permanent solution is required to meet the new ways of working long into the future. 

Pearse Doherty TD 

Pearse Doherty TD 

With the positive news about vaccines, there is a fear that this temporary exemption could end at any moment resulting in many thousands of workers having to return to the office permanently or face this additional tax liability.  

Speaking in Dáil Éireann during this debate, Pearse Doherty TD called on the Minister to address the ‘rigid application of the relief’, show flexibility and to look at this issue through the prism of Brexit and the Good Friday Agreement – something which the CBWC have been focusing on.  

In response, Minister Donohoe acknowledged that an issue existed and committed to meet with the CBWC soon to discuss it further.  

Paul Quinn from the leadership of the Cross Border Workers Coalition said: 

“This is a seminal moment in our campaign to address the out of kilter tax legislation which affects Republic of Ireland residents working across the border in Northern Ireland. After months of campaigning, we really welcome firstly the acknowledgment by the Finance Minister that this is an issue which needs addressed and the commitment to examine it as part of the tax strategy group papers.”  

Paul Quinn from the leadership of the Cross Border Workers Coalition

Paul Quinn from the leadership of the Cross Border Workers Coalition

“We have been greatly encouraged by the support shown to the group from a range of stakeholders including politicians of all parties both in Government and in opposition. In particular, Pearse Doherty TD has been a brilliant advocate for the group, and we would like to place on record our thanks to him for his persistence in raising this issue at both Committee Stage and Report Stage of the Finance Bill.” 

“This is an issue that not only affects thousands of employees but also the economic prosperity of border communities. It is right that the Irish Government should be looking at finding a pragmatic solution that will be of benefit to everyone across the island of Ireland and we will ensure the Minister follows through on the commitments made.”  

“We look forward to meeting with Minister Donohoe and his officials soon to discuss this further.” 

Local Chartered Accountant elected new President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce

Dawn McLaughlin, President, Derry Chamber

Dawn McLaughlin, President, Derry Chamber

Dawn McLaughlin has been appointed the 78th President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce.

Dawn, who runs her own accountancy firm in the North West, was appointed at the virtual AGM on Thursday 10 December, taking over the reins from outgoing President, Redmond McFadden.

In her address to members, Dawn spoke of the immense challenges facing businesses this year and said the recovery from Covid-19 and managing the effects of Brexit will be her main priorities for the coming year.

Dawn will be supported in her role by Aidan O’Kane, Allstate NI Director and Director of Production Health at Allstate Canada, who will be the Chamber’s Vice-President for 2021.

Speaking at the virtual AGM, Dawn said:

“I am very proud to have been elected President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and I would like to thank the membership for trusting me with this position. I am under no illusions as to the serious challenges facing our local business community over the coming 12 months, with Covid and Brexit sure to dominate our focus.

“Redmond worked exceptionally hard this year, doing stellar work in speaking up for the North West as we faced some of the greatest difficulties in a generation, and I would like to thank him on behalf of all our members for his dedication in 2020.

“Rebuilding our regional economy post-Covid and handling whatever comes of Brexit will be our main priorities.  Sustained government support will be crucial as we navigate these challenges and we will be working hard on behalf of local businesses to secure this support and clarity.

“However, there are reasons to be optimistic for the next 12 months. The first vaccinations taking place this week in Northern Ireland is wonderful and will hopefully lead to a speedier recovery than first thought. The Executive’s emerging Programme for Government in the first half of 2021 is an opportunity to make the North West’s voice heard loud and clear and make sure that local ministers prioritise our region. And the Taoiseach’s recently announced Shared Island Unit and commitment of half a billion euros over the next five years is a chance to attract crucial investment into the North West and address infrastructure deficits.

“I am excited to get to grips with my new role and I will be working extremely hard over the next year to help make sure that local businesses succeed in a successful North West.”

Dawn McLaughlin, President, and Aidan O’Kane, Vice-President

Dawn McLaughlin, President, and Aidan O’Kane, Vice-President

Outgoing President Redmond McFadden also said:

“Despite the challenges that 2020 has presented, the past 12 months have been both a professional and personal honour. In my role as President this year, I have worked hard to fight the corner of the North West and on behalf of our fantastic business community.

“I’ve seen first-hand this year the talent, compassion, and adaptability of our local business leaders as they faced the most difficult challenges of their professional lives and made the most difficult decisions they are ever likely to make.

“It’s important to also acknowledge the successes and high points of this year including the long-awaited sign off of the Graduate Entry Medical School and the commitment from the Executive of match funding for the City Deal.

“I would like to again thank the members for their faith in me this year and thank the entire team at Chamber for their support. I wish Dawn and Aidan the best of luck for 2021 and I am certain that they will represent our region with strong, committed, and dynamic leadership.”

Brown O’Connor Communications Weekly Look Ahead: Week Commencing 14 December 2020

Updated Twitter Card 1.jpg

Forward Look

  • The UK Government published its latest Command Paper detailing how the NI Protocol will be implemented from 2021 onwards. The paper outlines plans to ensure unfettered access for NI business to the UK Market; clear guidance stating no tariffs on internal UK Trade; and implementations to support trade from GB to NI. To read the paper: LINK

  • Prime Minister Boris Johnson MP and EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen have set a deadline of Sunday for negotiations to conclude on a trade deal after the Brexit transition period. The EU Commission President said that the UK and EU’s views on remaining issues remain ‘far apart’ following dinner with the Prime Minister on Wednesday.

  • The EU and the UK have agreed a ‘trusted trader scheme’ that will mean exemptions from tariffs for up to 98% of goods flowing between Great Britain and Northern Ireland from 1 January 2021. The other 2% would potentially avail of rebates from any tariffs, according to RTÉ’s Tony Connelly.

  • The UK Government has guaranteed £400m in new money in a ‘New Deal for Northern Ireland’ as part of the NI Protocol. This financial package is aimed at supporting business operations following the Brexit transition period.

  • Retail, leisure, close contact services and hospitality which serves food are all to open today following the two-week lockdown.

  • The Department of Health will lead all Covid-19 legislation moving forward. It was reported in the Sunday Life that Junior Ministers, Declan Kearney MLA and Gordon Lyons MLA had been assisting the Health Department with Covid-19 legislation, but are now required to focus on the Brexit transition and its implications for Northern Ireland.

  • The First and Deputy First Minsters, and Finance Minister, Conor Murphy MLA will take part in Question Time on Monday. The Health and Infrastructure Ministers will take questions on Tuesday.

  • Economy Minister Diane Dodds MLA will brief the Economy Committee on support for business during the pandemic on Wednesday 16 December. The NI Human Rights Commissioner, Les Allamby will brief The Executive Office Committee on the NI Protocol.

  • The Health Committee will be briefed by Department Officials on Brexit and Subordinate Legislation on Thursday 17 December.

  • Justice Minister, Naomi Long MLA has postponed the Further Consideration stage of the Domestic Abuse and Family Proceedings Bill due to issues surrounding an amendment which could cause significant financial pressure on The Executive due to Legal Aid. The Further Consideration stage will now be heard in the Assembly on Tuesday 15 December.

  • The Assembly is to rise for Christmas recess on Friday 18 December. The first sitting of 2021 is expected to be Monday 18 January.

  • The Justice Minister also launched a public consultation on giving domestic abuse survivors strengthened legal protections. Deadline for submissions is Friday 11 February. To respond: LINK

  • DAERA Minister, Edwin Poots MLA has launched a public consultation on Climate Change Legislation. Deadline for submissions is Monday 1 February. To respond: LINK

  • Communities Minister, Carál Ni Chuilín MLA announced the second phase of the Covid-19 Charities Fund, with £11.7m made available to the third sector from 6 January 2021. The Minister has also allocated £6.5m funding for the most vulnerable over the festive period.

Other Stories this week

  • The Communities Minister and the DAERA Minister announced a further £1.4m in funding for local Councils to sustain town centres.

  • Justice Minister, Naomi Long MLA has introduced Domestic Homicide Reviews (DHR) in NI. The DHR is a multi-agency review of the circumstances in which the death of a person aged 16 or over has, or appears to have, resulted from violence, abuse or neglect in a domestic setting. Three Chairs have been appointed to the DHR panel; Nina Noddings, Jan Melia and Anne Marks.

  • Adrian McCreesh has been named as the new Chief Executive of Mid Ulster Council. Mr McCreesh was previously the Council's Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Business and Communities.

  • Chartered Accountant Dawn McLaughlin has been appointed as the President of Londonderry Chamber of Commerce for 2021, with Aidan O’Kane of Allstate named as Vice-President. Dawn replaces Redmond McFadden who took up the role in December 2019.

Upcoming key political and business events

Consultations

US President Elect Biden Campaign Manager Jen O’Malley Dillon and Tánaiste Leo Varadkar launch 2021 applications for prestigious transatlantic programme

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar

Jen O’Malley Dillon, the Campaign Manager for the successful Biden 2020 Presidential bid and Tánaiste Leo Varadkar launched the application process for the 2021 Washington Ireland Program to a live virtual audience on both sides of the Atlantic last night. 

Both Varadkar and O’Malley Dillon have strong connections to the Washington Ireland Program with the Tánaiste securing a place as a participant in 2000 and O’Malley Dillon serving as a current board member at the same time as running the Biden for President campaign.

The program provides participants with the opportunity to work in the likes of the US Congress, high profile companies and major advocacy organisations. During their 9-month programme, participants take part in a leadership development curriculum, engage in conversations with global leaders across a wide variety of sectors and connect with mentors to work on personal and professional development.

For the past 26 years WIP has invested in over 730 emerging leaders across Northern Ireland and Ireland. Due to the global pandemic, the program went online in 2020. The program will continue in a hybrid version in 2021, with remote working opportunities and with in-person events planned with senior US leaders in Dublin and Belfast for 2021.

Biden Presidential Campaign Manager and WIP Board Member Jen O’Malley Dillon commented:

“I am thrilled to be part of the team launching the latest application process for the WIP Class of 2021. These have been really challenging times and the team adapted wonderfully when it became clear that covid was going to force the program to go virtual earlier this year.” 

Biden Presidential Campaign Manager and WIP Board Member Jen O’Malley Dillon

Biden Presidential Campaign Manager and WIP Board Member Jen O’Malley Dillon

“This program assists in the development of some really fantastic and dedicated young leaders who are committed to public service in their local communities, but also at a higher level when they begin to understand what role they can play with their talents and interests.”

“This is also the prime opportunity to reinforce the need to bring forward more young female leaders. This program provides that equal opportunity for those with the ability and ambition to accelerate their development and bring them to the next level.”

“My call is for more young women to take the step forward, get their application into the program for the 2021 intake and position themselves to take on the future.”

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said:

“One of the most formational experiences of my life was in 2000, when I participated on the Washington Ireland Program. Since then, I have been a strong advocate for what it sets out to achieve – developing leaders from all communities and backgrounds on our island. I continue to see many of WIP’s alumni taking elected office and positions of responsibility, leading successful businesses and advocating for those without a voice in our society. This program is making a real difference and I will continue to support it.”

“Covid has provided an extraordinary challenge for us all, but it has also reaffirmed the purpose of the Washington Ireland Program. We must continue to build the skills of emerging leaders from across our island, to connect them with others, and to help them develop ambitious ideas for our future.”

“It is a pleasure to be asked to launch the search for the new WIP Class alongside Jen O’Malley Dillon and I also wish her every success in her post Presidential bid endeavours.”

Bryan Patten, Executive Director of the Washington Ireland Program added:

“It is fantastic when we can call upon Jen and Leo – who are long term supporters, and indeed, shapers of the Washington Ireland Program - to launch the opening of applications for the 2021 intake, they are both great examples of values driven leadership.”

“There are pressing questions facing all our futures, issues such as social equality, responding to climate change and sustaining our democratic institutions. We are looking for ambitious and driven third-level students who are interested in building their skills and networks, and shaping how we respond to these questions for Northern Ireland and Ireland.”

“Due to the challenges of the pandemic, we will continue to use technology to deliver the 2021 program. Whether students are in Cork or Coleraine, they will be able to gain professional experience, speak with global leaders and design ambitious ideas to drive our island forward. When the restrictions allow, we will also gather the Class for in-person events in Belfast and Dublin, bringing over senior US leaders to spend time with the students. This hybrid program also means that, for 2021 only, the program will be fully accessible to students who are studying part-time degrees, diplomas and certificates.”

To apply for the 2021 Washington Ireland Program please go to www.wiprogram.org