The newly appointed Minister for Intergovernmental Relations, Pat McFadden, made his inaugural visit to Northern Ireland today as part of the UK Government’s initiative to reset and strengthen relations between Westminster and the devolved governments. This visit underscores the government’s commitment to fostering collaboration and addressing joint priorities with Northern Ireland.
Accompanied by Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn, McFadden met with the First Minister and deputy First Minister in Belfast to explore avenues for working together on economic growth and investment opportunities across the UK. The discussions were centred on how the UK Government and the Northern Ireland Executive can collaborate effectively to enhance the region’s economy and improve living standards for citizens.
During the meetings, attention was also given to the upcoming inaugural session of the Council of the Nations and Regions, which is expected to take place in the coming weeks. This body aims to facilitate communication and cooperation between the UK Government and the devolved administrations, ensuring that all parts of the UK have a voice in national decision-making. Furthermore, the discussions included preparations for the UK’s International Investment Summit, designed to attract investment and bolster economic development in various regions.
McFadden’s visit included a tour of the Stormont Government Estate, the UK Government Hub at Erskine House in Belfast, and a visit to the Red Bay Boats manufacturing facility in Cushendall, County Antrim. Red Bay Boats is renowned for producing world-class vessels for emergency services, including those serving Belfast Harbour Police and the Port of London’s Fire and Rescue services.
At the facility, McFadden met with representatives from the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasizing the importance of strong partnerships between government and business to drive economic growth.
In a statement following his meetings, McFadden expressed the government’s dedication to maintaining a constructive relationship with the Northern Ireland Executive. “The Government takes seriously having a good working relationship with the Northern Ireland Executive,” he said. “The Secretary of State and I had a constructive and valuable meeting today with the First Minister and deputy First Minister discussing the forthcoming Council of Nations and Regions and the UK’s International Investment Summit. Everyone wants their citizens to have good jobs and rising living standards, and we are all resolved on that point.”
This visit is part of a series of ministerial engagements in Northern Ireland within the first hundred days of the new government. Other high-profile visits have included those from the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Paymaster General, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation & Technology, and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
The ongoing ministerial visits signal a renewed focus on Northern Ireland within the UK Government and a commitment to fostering a collaborative approach to governance that benefits all citizens.
