Business leaders connected to a decade of £1bn Belfast Region City Deal opportunities

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Lord Caine, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Ryan Murphy at City Hall

The Brown O’Connor team were delighted to work alongside Belfast City Council today as heads of Belfast city region business bodies and sectoral representative organisations gathered at Belfast City Hall this morning, Thursday February 29, for a briefing on the significant opportunities being created by the Belfast Region City Deal programme of investment – and how they can connect to, and benefit from them.

Addressing the assembled leaders, Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Ryan Murphy urged them to grasp the many opportunities on offer – and to seek to amplify them through their organisations and networks, to benefit both the local economy and people living here.

One opportunity on the immediate horizon is the Augment the City Challenge competition which is being led by Belfast City Council and supported by £930,000 of Belfast Region City Deal funding. The XR funding competition will support local SMEs to explore the role of immersive technologies in enhancing visitor experiences.

Speaking on behalf of the Belfast Region City Deal partners, Belfast Lord Mayor, Councillor Ryan Murphy, said: “We’ve made significant progress across all pillars of investment in just two years, moving the Belfast Region City Deal fully into delivery phase. This transformative programme of investment is creating valuable opportunities for our city and regional economy, with local businesses already awarded contracts to support delivery.

“We are also about to launch our Augment the City Challenge funding competition, providing the region’s SMEs with a unique opportunity to develop innovative proof of concepts and prototypes using immersive technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality. The competition will also provide valuable insights to support organisations designing new visitor attractions including our landmark Belfast Stories and other City Deal projects such as The Gobbins, Destination Royal Hillsborough, and Carrickfergus Castle.”

First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "I believe that we have to be optimistic about our economic prospects. The City Deals really speak to that.  

"This Deal alone has seen £1billion of government funding and partner and industry investment over the next 10 years which is going to lay the groundwork for up to 20,000 more and better paid jobs.

"This morning is about connecting you to the opportunities this City Deal offers. It is also about outlining a programme of investment that will support business and people here well into the next generation. It is about our future, our young people and about the decade of opportunity that is referenced in this City Deal."

The deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “City and Growth Deals are long-term initiatives, but it is important that we take time on that journey to celebrate wins, to learn lessons, and acknowledge the progress being made. 

"We are global leaders in cybersecurity, FinTech, RegTech, life and health sciences, advanced manufacturing, the creative industries and low carbon technologies, but we can do so much more. Let's use this momentum to ensure City Deals are the catalyst for the kind of transformation we are capable of and deserve, supercharging investment opportunity, economic growth and tech innovation."

The Lord Caine, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Northern Ireland said: “The UK Government is committed to ensuring that Northern Ireland continues to thrive and that it is a fantastic place to live, work and invest.

“That is why we are investing £617m for digital and innovation projects through the four City and Growth Deals, which cover the whole of Northern Ireland.

“The Belfast Region City Deal is the most advanced of the Northern Ireland deals which includes 19 projects in key growth sectors of infrastructure, tourism and regeneration and digital and innovation.

“I look forward to working with the newly restored Northern Ireland Executive, as well as the business and sector leaders attending here today, on harnessing the opportunities each of the City and Growth Deals will bring to Northern Ireland.”

The team at Brown O’Connor look forward to continuing to work alongside Belfast City Council as they deliver the Belfast Region City Deal over the coming months and years.

For more information, go to www.belfastregioncitydeal.co.uk and join in the conversation using #BRCityDeal.

Blackboard Awards return to shine light on Belfast’s teaching stars

The Blackboard Awards will return on Friday 1 March at Riddel Hall, Queen’s University Belfast to celebrate teachers of distinction across Belfast. Now in its 12th year, the awards will celebrate teaching staff at primary and post-primary level who strive to light an educational fire among their students.

With more than one hundred nominations, this year’s Blackboard Awards is sponsored by Queen’s University Belfast, while event partners include Belfast City Airport, FLYNN, and H&J Martin Asset Management Services.

Dozens of outstanding educationalists will be honoured during the celebration, demonstrating an appreciation to all who foster and promote the education of children in Belfast.

Speaking ahead of the Blackboard Awards 2024, Dr Ryan Feeney, Vice-President Strategic Engagement and External Affairs at Queen’s University Belfast, said:

“At Queen’s we are proud of the work of both our University Colleges, Stranmillis University College and St. Mary’s University College who alongside the postgraduate provision at our School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work provide world class teachers who make a significant contribution to our society. Therefore, we are delighted to sponsor the Blackboard Awards that recognise the excellent contribution of our teachers.”

Michelle Hatfield, Chief People and Marketing Officer at Belfast City Airport, added:

“Belfast City Airport is thrilled to join hands with Belfast Media for this year's Blackboard Awards, celebrating those who lead the way in shaping the future for our youth. As a responsible neighbour, we are committed to helping young people across Northern Ireland realise their potential while building a skilled and enthusiastic workforce of tomorrow. Our IGNITE programme, which is now in its fifth year, underscores this commitment, giving young people from a range of schools the tools and confidence to be the best that they can be.”

“Congratulations to all those shortlisted for the 12th annual Blackboard Awards – this is a real testament to those who go above and beyond to encourage students to set their sights even higher, and we are proud to support such a worthwhile event.”

Editor of Belfast Media, Robin Livingstone, said:

“In spite of the obvious challenges faced by schools across the city, it is clear that the teachers and teaching support staff of Belfast remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring that in their classrooms, every child is a champion. The Blackboard Awards provide an opportunity to thank these extraordinary educationalists for everything they do for our children and young people.”

Pamela Jones, Principal of Belvoir Park Primary School, concluded:

“Having been honoured with the Principal of the Year award at last year’s ceremony, I can express how thrilled I was to have my commitment recognised. To my fellow educational colleagues across education, who put the children at the centre of all they do, I am delighted that their dedication is getting recognised through these awards.”

Stormont’s Statutory Committee Memberships Confirmed

The membership of Stormont’s Statutory Committees have been confirmed. See below for the membership of all nine committees:

• Mr Harry Harvey MLA, DUP

• Mr Brian Kingston MLA, DUP

• Ms Sinéad McLaughlin MLA, SDLP

• Ms Carál Ní Chuilín MLA, Sinn Féin

• Ms Emma Sheerin MLA, Sinn Féin

• Ms Claire Sugden MLA, Independent

• Mr Jonathan Buckley MLA, DUP

• Mr Pádraig Delargy MLA, Sinn Féin

• Ms Sorcha Eastwood MLA, Alliance

• Mr David Honeyford MLA, Alliance

• Mr Philip McGuigan MLA, Sinn Féin

• Ms Sinéad McLaughlin MLA, SDLP

• Mr Mike Nesbitt MLA, UUP

• Mr John Blair MLA, Alliance

• Miss Nicola Brogan MLA, Sinn Féin

• Mr Tom Buchanan MLA, DUP

• Mr William Irwin MLA, DUP

• Mr Patsy McGlone MLA, SDLP

• Miss Michelle McIlveen MLA, DUP

• Miss Áine Murphy MLA, Sinn Féin

• Mr Andy Allen MLA, UUP

• Ms Kellie Armstrong MLA, Alliance

• Mr Maurice Bradley MLA, DUP

• Mr Brian Kingston MLA, DUP

• Mr Daniel McCrossan MLA, SDLP

• Mr Maolíosa McHugh MLA, Sinn Féin

• Ms Sian Mulholland MLA, Alliance

• Mr Danny Baker MLA, Sinn Féin

• Mr David Brooks MLA, DUP

• Ms Cheryl Brownlee MLA, DUP

• Mr Robbie Butler MLA, UUP

• Ms Cara Hunter MLA, SDLP

• Mrs Cathy Mason MLA, Sinn Féin

• Ms Kate Nicholl MLA, Alliance

• Dr Steve Aiken MLA, UUP

• Mr Phillip Brett MLA, DUP

• Miss Nicola Brogan MLA, Sinn Féin

• Mr Gerry Carroll MLA, People Before Profit Alliance

• Mr Paul Frew MLA, DUP

• Miss Deirdre Hargey MLA, Sinn Féin

• Mr Eóin Tennyson MLA, Alliance

• Mr Alan Chambers MLA, UUP

• Mrs Linda Dillon MLA, Sinn Féin

• Mrs Diane Dodds MLA, DUP

• Miss Órlaithí Flynn MLA, Sinn Féin

• Miss Nuala McAllister MLA, Alliance

• Mr Colin McGrath MLA, SDLP

• Mr Alan Robinson MLA, DUP

• Mr Danny Baker, Sinn Fein

• Mr Cathal Boylan, Sinn Fein

• Mr Patrick Brown, Alliance Party

• Mr Keith Buchanan, DUP

• Mr Stephen Dunne, DUP

• Mr Mark Durkan, SDLP

• Mr Peter McReynolds, Alliance Party

• Mr Doug Beattie MLA, UUP

• Mr Maurice Bradley MLA, DUP

• Mr Stewart Dickson MLA, Alliance

• Mr Alex Easton MLA, Independent

• Mrs Sinéad Ennis MLA, Sinn Féin

• Mrs Ciara Ferguson MLA, Sinn Féin

• Mr Justin McNulty MLA, SDLP

Baker Tilly Mooney Moore: Balancing the books of love on Valentine's Day

Writes Neil Armstrong, Tax Director at Baker Tilly Mooney Moore.

Neil Armstrong, Tax Director at Baker Tilly Mooney Moore

It goes without saying that Valentine's Day may not typically evoke thoughts of accountancy and tax planning, but for those who are feeling the love, there might be some financial benefits worth considering this February 14.

If your love language involves gift-giving, or you find yourself feeling generous this Valentine's, it's worth noting that certain gifts linked to marriage or civil partnership could be exempt from taxation.

This inheritance tax benefit encompasses the first £5,000 of a gift from a parent of either spouse, the initial £2,500 of a gift from any other ancestor, such as a grandparent, and the initial £1,000 of a gift from any other person.

Upon tying the knot, the Marriage Allowance allows you to transfer £1,260 of your Personal Allowance to your spouse or civil partner. If you're not currently employed, this could potentially reduce your partner’s tax by up to £252 in the tax year, from April 6th to April 5th the following year.

With regards to Capital Gains Tax, married couples and civil partners can enjoy the perk of transferring assets without incurring tax implications. This means you can put your house and/or other assets in your new spouse’s name without incurring a tax liability.

In the unfortunate circumstance of a loved one’s death, it is also worth keeping in mind the Inheritance Tax benefit of passing on your estate to your spouse or civil partner, is completely tax-free.

This Valentine's Day, it is essential to recognise that while love may be blind, your inheritance plans need a clear tax vision. Navigating the love language of financial planning this Valentine’s Day can ensure that you seal the deal with a tax friendly ‘I do.’ After all, what better way to express your commitment than by planning your financial future together?

Fundraising Bra-Walkers Boost NI Breast Cancer Services

Breast Cancer patients are set to benefit from a £40,000 grant made by health charity Walk the Walk to Cancer Focus Northern Ireland. Walk the Walk is best known as the organiser of the iconic MoonWalk London, when thousands of women and men walk overnight marathons through the city’s streets, wearing decorated bras or colourful bra t-shirts.

With 1 in 7 women in the UK likely to develop breast cancer in their lifetime, the Galentine’s Day announcement was made to remind women to check their breasts and highlight the significant role friendships play to individuals impacted by breast cancer.

The funds will specifically help Cancer Focus Northern Ireland continue to provide a bra fitting and swimwear fitting service to more than 800 women each year as well as delivering two wellness retreats for 40 local women affected by breast cancer.

Nina Barough CBE, Founder and Chief Executive of Walk the Walk said:

“This Galentine’s Day, I am delighted that Walk the Walk is announcing a grant we are awarding to Cancer Focus Northern Ireland, to provide a much-needed bra fitting service and two wellness retreats which will support women with breast cancer. This wonderful charity and the work they carry out is life-changing – I know from my own experience how frightening and isolating a breast cancer diagnosis can be, let alone dealing with the impact of a mastectomy. Working together, our charities can really make a huge difference to so many people. On Galentine’s Day, I’d also encourage everyone to check their breasts regularly for the signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Early detection of the disease can lead to a better outcome by ensuring that care is provided at the earliest possible stage.”

Activity funded by Walk the Walk’s grant will include:

• The continued delivery of the Cancer Focus Northern Ireland’s unique bra and swimwear fitting service for women after a lumpectomy, mastectomy, and all reconstructive breast surgeries. With a team of friendly expert fitters and a wide range of bras to suit any occasion, the service is delivered in six locations across Northern Ireland, with a new service in the charity’s planned Enniskillen Cancer Support Centre earmarked to open later in 2024.

• Two wellness retreats for up to 40 women, as part of the charity’s Focus Friends support group – a breast cancer service for younger women aged fifty and under. Taking place in Donegal, the retreats provide opportunities for women to come together, step away from the pressures of their lives, and speak to one another about their cancer. Each retreat focuses on wellness and wellbeing, with an itinerary filled with therapeutic support, healthy eating, yoga, forest bathing, and nature walks.

Joanne Jones, 44 from Ballyclare, who participated at a recent Cancer Focus NI retreat, commented on why she applied for the opportunity and its impact:

“I was first diagnosed in June 2021 after finding a lump and I had a single mastectomy shortly after. In February last year, I decided to have my other breast removed, to take away the lingering worry it could reoccur. It’s been a long road, I’m on long-term drug therapy, and I’ve just had more surgery recently but I’m so thankful I’m here for my husband, my daughter and my family and friends. When I saw that Cancer Focus NI were running retreats for women like me, I jumped at the opportunity.

“The retreat was incredible. It was so nice to get back to something just for me, and to share it with other girls.  We were all at different stages, some like me post-surgery, others waiting for results.  In the surroundings of the retreat, we all felt that we could talk about anything, with no judgment, no fear of opening up, and no need to hold back – it was such therapy!  We indulged in delicious food, relaxing yoga, forest walks and a hot tub – it was magical to switch off for a few days. I would encourage any women considering a future opportunity to jump at the chance - I didn’t want to leave!”

Pat McClelland, Director of Services at Cancer Focus NI spoke of the funding:

“Thanks to this funding, almost 1,000 women here in Northern Ireland will be able to avail of our charity’s vital breast cancer support services. I cannot begin to explain the role female friendships can play to women impacted by breast cancer. From a 60-minute consultation and chat with a bra fitter to 48 hours with dedicated therapeutic support staff and other females affected by cancer, the level of honesty and empowerment is unparalleled and can impact overall wellness and recovery. Thank you to Walk to Walk for this Galentine’s Day gift which will make such a lasting impact to local women’s lives here in Northern Ireland.”

Entries are now open for Cancer Focus Northern Ireland’s March and November 2024 retreats. For more information, email care@cancerfocusni.org

The Assembly Backs Motion for Fundamental Appraisal of Planning System

At the end of a busy day on the hill, a motion tabled by Deborah Erskine MLA, Trevor Clarke MLA and David Brooks MLA on the Northern Ireland planning system was debated.  The motion acknowledged the importance of the system and laid bare significant – and fundamental - problems.

Chair of the Committee for Infrastructure Deborah Erskine MLA opened the debate by stating that the planning system in Northern Ireland is simply not fit for purpose. She highlighted that just 3% of appeals are dealt with by the Planning Appeals Commission within their own target timeline.

Mrs Erskine pointed out that the current pace of planning approval is sapping confidence from investors and negatively affecting the economy.  This theme was widely supported across the Chamber, with other members reiterating the need for an overhaul of planning to prevent the barrier to investment caused by intolerable delays.

Cathal Boylan MLA specifically highlighted the impact that slow processing times are having in the green energy industry, where, he said, major planning applications have an average processing time of 57 weeks. The detrimental effect these shortfalls have on new renewable energy, and Northern Ireland’s ability to hit sustainability targets was acknowledged from all sides of the Chamber.

The motion also focused on the importance of planning for rural communities – and the need to support thriving rural communities by opposing policies that further constrain development in the countryside.

While the motion called for ‘the Minister for Infrastructure to commission an urgent and fundamental appraisal of the planning system, Jonathan Buckley MLA suggested that if there was to be a review of the planning process, this should also include the Planning Appeals Commission.

For clarity, John Stewart MLA pointed out that there have been many reviews of the planning system across the last decade, but little has changed. The Minister for Infrastructure however, stated that he realises the motion stops short of calling for a full blown review of the planning process, but rather a fundamental appraisal thereof.

Every MLA who spoke, clearly believes there are significant issues across the planning system and that it must be reformed to assist in Northern Ireland’s economic growth, the safeguarding of the farming community and the development of the green energy industry.

Despite some objection to the wording within the motion, there was widespread cross-party support, and it was passed.

It should be noted that the secondary element of the motion, referring to the role of the Strategic Investment Board and its functions, was not the main focus of today’s debate, however, with the motion being passed, we would expect the SIB element to have a further focus when the time comes.

Belfast city centre nursery provider welcomes Assembly motion on affordable childcare and calls for investment in the sector

Belfast Central Mission (BCM), the operator of Puddleducks - a Belfast city centre day nursery provider, has welcomed the motion tabled at the Northern Ireland Assembly later today expected to highlight the challenges of affordable childcare and the need for greater investment in the sector.

The move comes as many of the newly installed Ministers and MLAs state that childcare provision is one of the most urgent challenges the Assembly will face and that a clear strategy must be developed at Executive level. 

Senior management of Puddleducks, operated as a social enterprise by BCM, says that the sector needs investment to place it on a more sustainable footing due to the impacts of the covid pandemic, rising costs and changing work patterns all compounding problems such as recruitment, skills, training and staff retention, just like many key sectors across Northern Ireland.

Speaking ahead of the affordable childcare debate, Puddleducks Manager, Sharon Malcolm said:

“The return of the Assembly now allows for vital issues such as the challenges around childcare provision to be highlighted with focus and much greater attention to actual solutions.”

“This is a critical priority not just for parents by ensuring that families can meet the costs of childcare, but for the wider economy as well.”

“There are parents that have been forced out of work due to their inability to meet these costs, but there is now an opportunity for these individuals and economically inactive members of the public to get back to work if the appropriate cross-departmental strategy is put in place.”

“The early years care and education sector has been beset with turbulence and change in recent years resulting from the pandemic. Covid has permanently changed the way in which many people work – the traditional 9-5 in the office is something of the past.”

“This has resulted in additional pressures on childcare providers, where you might have had a parent sending their child to childcare five days a week, but would now perhaps only be two.”

“Our sector is an essential service which has an impact on every part of society. It must be high quality and sustainable while being both accessible and affordable for all families. We are nurturing, caring for and educating the youngest in our communities and our executive need to see this as an opportunity to invest in early years to ensure the best possible outcomes for our children's future.”

“We are supportive of the call on the Executive to deliver a strategy that makes high quality affordable childcare achievable.”

“As the only part of the UK or Ireland that does not have a childcare strategy, we have an opportunity to learn from counterparts and create a world leading early years care and education sector within Northern Ireland and this must be an immediate priority for our executive.”

Stormont Selects its Ministers

Following a successful recall of the Assembly and the election of Edwin Poots MLA as Speaker, the Assembly had its first sitting in almost two years where the following Ministers were chosen using the D’Hondt system:

• First Minister – Michelle O’Neill MLA, Sinn Féin, Mid Ulster.

• Deputy First Minister – Emma Little-Pengelly MLA, DUP, Lagan Valley.

• Minister for the Economy – Conor Murphy MLA, Sinn Féin, Newry and Armagh.

• Minister of Finance – Caoimhe Archibald MLA, Sinn Féin, East Londonderry.

• Minister of Health – Robin Swann MLA, UUP, North Antrim.

• Minister for Infrastructure – John O’Dowd MLA, Sinn Féin, Upper Bann.

• Minister of Education – Paul Givan MLA, DUP, Lagan Valley.

• Minister for Communities – Gordon Lyons MLA, DUP, East Antrim.

• Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs – Andrew Muir MLA, Alliance, North Down.

• Minister for Justice – Naomi Long MLA, Alliance, East Belfast.

• Sinn Féin Junior Minister – Aisling Reilly MLA, West Belfast.

• DUP Junior Minister – Pam Cameron MLA, South Antrim.

A Stormont Reboot: Politics Returns to Primetime

Ahead of Saturday’s Assembly recall, Tara O’Neill looks ahead to how tomorrow’s events might unfold.

The political version of a sitcom that got stuck in a re-run loop; this Saturday’s Assembly recall is set to mark the highly anticipated season premiere.

As the curtains rise on Stormont’s return, the question on everyone’s lips is who will take the leading roles and grace the Executive stage?

In the opening scenes, the Speaker of the Assembly will be nominated by other MLAs. This role has been tipped for none other than Edwin Poots MLA, former DUP Leader. Pasty McGlone MLA and Mike Nesbitt MLA are other considerable contenders, having both been nominated for the role of Speaker at the most recent Assembly recall in January. In a delicate dance of power sharing, it is possible that both Patsy McGlone and Mike Nesbitt could share the role as Deputy Speaker.

Following the selection of the Business Committee is the nomination of First and Deputy First Minister. It is certain that Michelle O’Neill MLA will take on the role of First Minister, with Emma Little-Pengelly MLA as the current frontrunner to take on the role of deputy First Minister. In a break from typecasting, a nationalist First Minister and unionist Deputy First Minister will produce a dynamic the likes of which has never graced our screens before.

Forming the official opposition is the SDLP, with Matthew O’Toole MLA assuming the mantle of Leader of the Opposition.

In supporting roles, we might see MLAs like Caoimhe Archibald or Linda Dillon step in to become Junior Sinn Féin Minister, with Jonathan Buckley MLA perhaps assuming the Junior Ministerial role for the DUP.

What comes next will undoubtedly set the storyline for the next three-and-a-half-year mandate.

With first pick of the ministerial positions, it is no secret that Sinn Féin have been eyeing up the Economy role, with political heavyweight Conor Murphy MLA the favourite to take this seat.

In a swap with Sinn Féin, the DUP will likely assume the Finance ministerial position, with Gordon Lyons MLA being predicted as the most likely candidate.

In a toss-up between Sinn Féin and the DUP, either party could make a bold move and seize the least popular ministerial post, Health. With former First Minister Paul Givan MLA and Linda Dillon MLA as likely candidates, the Health ministerial post will be one to watch.

The UUP are understood to be taking the Education seat, with Robbie Butler MLA, deputy party leader and education spokesperson, heavily tipped for the role.

The Department for Communities is likely to be a Sinn Féin sure start, but will Deidre Hargey MLA resume her previous role, or will the party put forward a new candidate like Áine Murphy MLA? As for Infrastructure, this post will go to either Sinn Féin or Alliance, with Andrew Muir MLA waiting in the wings to assume this position.

The DAERA Minister is also dependent upon whether Sinn Féin or Alliance take the role of Infrastructure Minister.

Lying outside of the realm of the d’Hondt formula is the Justice seat. Will breakout star Alliance take centre stage by nominating party leader Naomi Long MLA, or will former Justice Minister Claire Sugden MLA resume her role in the Executive ensemble? With the potential for a plot twist, this selection could rejig the running order and the number of seats allocated to each party.

Grab your remote, adjust your political antenna, and get ready for the return of the Assembly. If this week’s events are anything to go by, it will be a performance worth watching.

By Tara O’Neill, Client Executive at Brown O’Connor Communications

Health Minister's Hot Seat: Tackling Crisis, Shortages, and Waiting Lists – Can They Cure the Ailing System?

Vicki Caddy, Head of Healthcare Communications

As we stand-by for the nomination of Ministers in a new Executive, one particularly interesting portfolio is the Department of Health.  

As a poison chalice, this cup truly runneth over.  Let’s take a look at some of the challenges waiting in the Health Minister’s in-tray next week…

First up: People and Pay.  Our health service workers are over-stretched, over-worked and underpaid. Quick wins from the Minister on pay deals for nurses, junior doctors and health workers will bring some respite, but there’s a lot more to it. There are serious shortages of staff.  A lack of pay parity here means we are haemorrhaging healthcare staff to Ireland, GB and Australia.  Health service pay and conditions are driving skilled workers into early retirement and private practice.

Private medical care has mushroomed as a consequence of spiralling waiting lists (fine if you have the cash). NHS dentistry is crumbling, and we’ve seen private GP clinics creeping in.

The traditional vision of the family GP now looks like a thing of the past. Heaving GP practices have closed or been handed back to Health Trusts, as doctors (funny enough) aren’t attracted into General Practice. Covid has irreversibly changed how people access primary care.  With growing patient lists and less GPs, it makes sense to try to triage them over the phone first… if you can get through.

Community pharmacies have come into their own as local experts on the high street, easing the pressure on GPs.  However, they too have huge financial challenges behind the scenes: the way they’re paid for the medicines they dispense is highly volatile – and often loss-making. It’s pushing some pharmacies to the brink.  In the mix on this, a consultation on Prescription Charges as a public revenue-raising measure will be interesting, and UK Treasury is likely to drive for that soon.

Cancer waiting times are devastating.  People are waiting months rather than days or weeks for a first appointment. Then there may be chunks of weeks to wait for tests, further waits for the results, and then for the treatment to start.

And we shouldn’t forget about the other part of this Ministerial portfolio – social care.  In England, these are two separate entities with their own pots of money.  Here in Northern Ireland, they’re grouped together – and therefore jostle for their share of the same budget. 

We have an ageing population. Through the miracle of modern medicine (oh, the irony) more people are living longer.  

Given that Alzheimer’s and Dementia are now the biggest killer in the UK, we desperately need to get dementia services whipped into shape as a priority.

One of the first pieces of legislation we should see coming through is the Adult Safeguarding/Adult Protection Bill – aimed at protecting care home residents and vulnerable people in residential care.

Properly planned and resourced adult social care can be really effective in allowing older people to live independently in their own homes.  As an in-tray priority, the Health Minister must publish the findings of the consultation on the Reform of Adult Social Care and identify funding to take it forward.

The new Health Minister has some huge challenges ahead – and these are just the top line. Health promotion and prevention need visionary investment to improve our public health and ease the burden on health services.

Finally, returning to the workforce challenge – if there’s a cocktail umbrella to take the bad look off this poison chalice, it’s this: patients who do get access to health services in Northern Ireland say almost universally, that the care they receive from the dedicated and highly skilled staff is nothing short of incredible. 

Let’s see if the new Health Minister can rehabilitate our ailing services and deliver a positive prognosis for us all.