Over the past year, the restoration of our Assembly and Executive has allowed us to deliver significant positive outcomes for families, workers, and communities.
The reinstatement of our political institutions has led to real improvements in public services and infrastructure, underscoring the critical role of a functioning Executive and locally elected ministers.
The all-Ireland and cross-border institutions have been restored, are working hard and strong cooperation exists between ministers in Belfast and Dublin. We have again taken up our seats around the table at the British-Irish Council and the important work with our counterparts across England, Scotland, and Wales presses on.
My own appointment as the first Irish nationalist and republican to become First Minister has underscored that a new era of change is underway, and exemplifies our commitment to equality, inclusion, and progress. This historic milestone reflects the transformative power of the peace process and the Good Friday Agreement in fostering a more inclusive society. However, the story does not end there. We must continue the vital work of reconciliation, and building a shared future where our children and grandchildren can move beyond old limits.
Political leadership, delivery of public services and strengthening the economy are the daily tasks that I and every other minister must live up to, and be accountable for.
I am glad to report that the Executive has actively supported public sector workers, advocating for fair pay and better conditions. In January 2024, we stood in solidarity with public sector workers campaigning for fair pay and better conditions. The restoration of the Executive ensured that tens of thousands of public sector workers received pay increases in recognition of their invaluable work.
Our finance minister, Caoimhe Archibald, secured hundreds of millions in additional funding to enhance public services and improve lives, highlighting the importance of having an Executive that represents and defends the interests of workers and families.
Health has been a top priority, with over half of the Executive’s budget allocated to the Department of Health. This substantial investment aims to transform our health services, ensuring better care for all citizens.
Significant funding has been committed to make childcare more affordable. Our economy minister, Conor Murphy, published plans to tackle regional imbalances and to create jobs and investment across the north.
Infrastructure development has seen significant progress. The Department for Infrastructure, under John O’Dowd, has initiated work on the long-overdue A5 road project, which will boost the economy west of the Bann and importantly save lives. Additionally, road schemes such as the A29 in Cookstown, the A4 Enniskillen bypass, and the Newry southern relief road will all contribute to addressing historic regional imbalance. These projects, along with the all-island rail review, are significant steps toward enhancing connectivity across the entire island of Ireland.
Addressing the critical issue of violence against women and girls, the Executive has launched a comprehensive strategy focusing on practical actions to change attitudes and make a lasting difference in the lives of women in our communities. This initiative underscores our commitment to ending this epidemic and ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
Looking ahead, the Executive is determined to continue delivering positive change. Plans are underway to provide 10,000 student places at Magee, further develop and deliver on the A5 road, transform our health service, build Casement Park, and strengthen workers’ rights, creating jobs and opportunities. This four-party Executive remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the whole community and achieving meaningful progress.
Accepting the political reality that each party holds different outlooks and equally legitimate positions on our constitutional future, we remain fully committed to working and delivering together and providing the necessary leadership the public rightly demand.
The parties have built over this past year a strong level of trust and confidence and I hope this continues.
The past year has demonstrated the positive impact of our political institutions on families, workers, communities and economy. Through dedicated efforts and strong partnership, the Executive is working hard to foster a more equitable, prosperous, and connected society.
