Secretary of State for Northern Ireland speaks at 2026 conference
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Bryant, delivered a speech at the 2026 British-Irish Association Conference in Oxford. He highlighted that the relationship between the UK and Ireland has strengthened, particularly in the last two years, and continues to mature. Bryant emphasized the need for institutional reform in Northern Ireland to achieve better outcomes for its people and to move beyond past abnormalities. He also stressed the importance of fulfilling the promise made in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement to acknowledge and address the suffering of victims and survivors, requiring equal participation from both governments. Looking to the future, Bryant aims to dedicate at least 60% of his time to economic possibilities in Northern Ireland, such as leveraging its high economic growth, US investment, and dual market access.
What it means for you
For people in Northern Ireland, the Secretary of State is committed to institutional reform to improve public services and economic growth, and to address the unfulfilled promises of the Good Friday Agreement regarding victims.
Who this affects
People in Northern Ireland, UK and Ireland governments
Key points
- •The UK-Ireland relationship has strengthened and matured in recent years.
- •Institutional reform in Northern Ireland is needed for better outcomes.
- •The 1998 Good Friday Agreement's promise to victims must be fulfilled.
- •The Secretary of State plans to focus on Northern Ireland's economic future.
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