Why Northern Ireland’s political leaders must think bigger for lasting peace and progress

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by The Irish Times, click this post to read the original article.

Northern Ireland has managed to maintain its power-sharing institutions for another year, avoiding collapse despite a sluggish pace of government activity. Since the historic Good Friday Agreement in 1998, many would consider political stability a success, given the region’s turbulent history. However, simply avoiding crisis is not enough. Your government needs to show greater ambition and take action on critical issues such as healthcare, policing, water quality, climate change, and economic development.

You face pressing challenges, including a strained health system, underfunded police services, and a polluted Lough Neagh, showing clear signs of environmental neglect. Beyond these, broader issues like job creation, education, housing, and infrastructure remain largely unresolved. Northern Ireland’s unique position with access to both EU and UK markets offers real economic potential, but this advantage is being undercut by unresolved Brexit-related constitutional disputes.

Security is also a concern, as both dissident republicans and loyalist paramilitaries still pose a threat, particularly within certain working-class communities. Encouragingly, efforts are being made to address these groups, including the appointment of a special envoy, Fleur Ravensbergen, to explore paths toward disbandment. At the same time, you must continue confronting the legacy of the Troubles, with families still seeking truth and closure. Swift and proper implementation of legacy legislation by both the British and Irish governments is crucial to healing.

Looking ahead, as the conversation on Irish unity grows, all political parties have a shared duty to ensure that day-to-day governance remains effective. With Assembly elections on the horizon in 2027, you and your leaders must avoid slipping into old divisions or turning debates into deadlock. Encouragingly, First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly have shown a cooperative spirit, and they must continue to lead with that mindset, proving that progress is possible despite past and present tensions.