That this House congratulates Bangor Drama Club on the occasion of its 90th anniversary; notes that the club was founded in 1935 and remains one of Northern Ireland’s leading amateur drama organisations; recognises its contribution to the cultural and artistic life of North Down through its programme of productions and community engagement; further notes the establishment of its youth theatre in October 2025 for young people aged 11 to 17, helping to encourage and develop future generations of performers and theatre practitioners; acknowledges the contribution of notable former members including Colin Blakely, Christopher Logan and Laura Hughes; commends the work of the club in operating Studio 1A as a valuable cultural hub for the wider community; further congratulates Bangor Drama Club on winning the Northern Ireland One-Act Finals in January 2026; wishes the cast and crew every success as they represent Northern Ireland with their production of The Donahue Sisters at the British One-Act Finals in Mold, Wales on 3 and 4 July 2026; and thanks all those involved with the club, past and present, for their dedication to the arts and community life in Bangor and across North Down.

That this House congratulates Bangor Drama Club on the occasion of its 90th anniversary; notes that the club was founded in 1935 and remains one of Northern Ireland’s leading amateur drama organisations; recognises its contribution to the cultural and artistic life of North Down through its programme of productions and...

That this House recognises and celebrates the invaluable contribution of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) to the development of young people across the United Kingdom since its establishment in 1956; notes that millions of young people have undertaken the DofE challenge, gaining confidence, resilience, leadership skills and a lifelong commitment to service; further notes the outstanding participation of young people from North Down who have embraced the Award through schools, youth organisations and community groups; acknowledges the positive impact of DofE activities including volunteering, physical challenges, skills development and expeditions in helping young people reach their full potential; further recognises the challenges facing today’s generation, including mental health pressures, rapid technological change and economic uncertainty; commends the determination, creativity and resilience consistently demonstrated by young people when given the opportunity and support to succeed; believes that programmes such as The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award play a vital role in building character, encouraging community engagement and preparing young people for the future; and calls on the Government, educational institutions and community organisations to continue supporting and promoting opportunities that enable young people to thrive and make a positive contribution to society.

That this House recognises and celebrates the invaluable contribution of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) to the development of young people across the United Kingdom since its establishment in 1956; notes that millions of young people have undertaken the DofE challenge, gaining confidence, resilience, leadership skills and a lifelong...

That this House congratulates Bangor runner Aaron Beggs on his outstanding performance at the Boston Marathon; notes that he completed the race in an impressive time of 2:44:45, placing him among a very large international field of competitors; further notes that, in the closing stages of the race, he stopped just metres from the finish line to assist a fellow runner in distress; commends this selfless act which placed the welfare of another above personal achievement; recognises that such conduct reflects the highest standards of sportsmanship, compassion and integrity; also notes that Mr Beggs is a member of Sons of Ulster LOL 1027, a Lodge with a proud tradition of service, community engagement and charitable work within North Down and beyond; acknowledges that the principles associated with the Orange tradition, including brotherly love, charity and integrity, were clearly demonstrated through his actions; and further congratulates him for representing his Lodge, Bangor and Northern Ireland with distinction on the international stage.

That this House congratulates Bangor runner Aaron Beggs on his outstanding performance at the Boston Marathon; notes that he completed the race in an impressive time of 2:44:45, placing him among a very large international field of competitors; further notes that, in the closing stages of the race, he stopped...

That this House congratulates Bangor Ladies Choir on the occasion of its 50th anniversary; recognises the choir’s outstanding contribution to cultural life in Bangor and across Northern Ireland over the past five decades; commends the dedication and commitment of its members, including those who have remained involved since its earliest years; notes the choir’s role in promoting community cohesion, wellbeing and access to the arts; further recognises the importance of supporting local cultural organisations and grassroots arts initiatives; highlights the value of such groups in strengthening local identity and civic pride; and wishes Bangor Ladies Choir continued success for many years to come.

That this House congratulates Bangor Ladies Choir on the occasion of its 50th anniversary; recognises the choir’s outstanding contribution to cultural life in Bangor and across Northern Ireland over the past five decades; commends the dedication and commitment of its members, including those who have remained involved since its earliest...

That this House congratulates Mrs Karen Cardy on her remarkable and dedicated service to the 10th Bangor Company of the Boys’ Brigade at Ballycrochan Presbyterian Church, as she steps down as Captain at the end of the current session after more than 40 years of faithful commitment to the organisation; recognises her outstanding contribution to the lives of generations of young people in Bangor, County Down, through the values and principles of the Boys’ Brigade; commends her leadership, guidance and encouragement which has helped shape the character, confidence and sense of community of countless members of the company over four decades; acknowledges the important role played by volunteers such as Mrs Cardy in supporting youth development and strengthening local communities; and wishes her well for the future while expressing sincere gratitude for her exceptional service and dedication to the 10th Bangor Boys’ Brigade and Ballycrochan Presbyterian Church.

That this House congratulates Mrs Karen Cardy on her remarkable and dedicated service to the 10th Bangor Company of the Boys’ Brigade at Ballycrochan Presbyterian Church, as she steps down as Captain at the end of the current session after more than 40 years of faithful commitment to the organisation;...

That this House congratulates the Parish of Donaghadee in the Diocese of Down and Dromore as Donaghadee Parish Church marks its 400th anniversary year in 2026; notes the rich and enduring contribution of the Parish Church to the spiritual, cultural and civic life of the town of Donaghadee and the wider North Down area over many centuries; further notes that the present church building was rebuilt in 1626 by Viscount Montgomery and later extended in 1881, standing on what is believed to be an ancient site of Christian worship dating back to the earliest evangelisation of Ireland; recognises the launch of a specially commissioned history of the church authored by Tom Neill with contributions from the present Rector, the Reverend Ian Gamble; acknowledges the church’s prominent position overlooking Donaghadee Harbour and its historic significance as a place of continuous Christian worship and community gathering; and wishes the Parish of Donaghadee every success as it embarks upon a year of commemorative events celebrating four centuries of faith, service and witness within the Diocese of Down and Dromore.

That this House congratulates the Parish of Donaghadee in the Diocese of Down and Dromore as Donaghadee Parish Church marks its 400th anniversary year in 2026; notes the rich and enduring contribution of the Parish Church to the spiritual, cultural and civic life of the town of Donaghadee and the...

That this House notes the major fire at the Fusco Vehicle Sales premises at the Balloo Industrial Estate in Bangor; pays special tribute to the outstanding professionalism, courage and swift actions of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, whose decisive intervention prevented the fire spreading to a nearby fuel depot and surrounding commercial premises, an escalation which could have resulted in catastrophic consequences for the wider Balloo industrial area; recognises that many neighbouring businesses were placed at serious risk and could have suffered devastating losses at a time when local firms are already facing significant financial pressures arising from rising costs, taxation and increases in National Insurance contributions; expresses relief that the incident was brought under control without loss of life; acknowledges the vital role played by the Police Service of Northern Ireland and all emergency responders in securing the area and protecting the public; and conveys its support and best wishes to the Fusco Group, its employees, and all local businesses affected by the incident.

That this House notes the major fire at the Fusco Vehicle Sales premises at the Balloo Industrial Estate in Bangor; pays special tribute to the outstanding professionalism, courage and swift actions of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, whose decisive intervention prevented the fire spreading to a nearby fuel...

That this House congratulates the Bangor Branch of the Royal British Legion on marking its 100th anniversary; recognises the tireless dedication of its members, past and present, in supporting veterans, serving personnel and their families; commends the branch for a century of community service and remembrance, ensuring that the sacrifices of those who served are never forgotten; acknowledges the vital role the Royal British Legion plays across the United Kingdom in welfare, remembrance and advocacy for the Armed Forces community; and sends best wishes to the Bangor Branch for continued success in its second century of service.

That this House congratulates the Bangor Branch of the Royal British Legion on marking its 100th anniversary; recognises the tireless dedication of its members, past and present, in supporting veterans, serving personnel and their families; commends the branch for a century of community service and remembrance, ensuring that the sacrifices...

That this House congratulates Olive Leaf Royal Black Preceptory No. 542, Bangor, on reaching its 75th anniversary; acknowledges the Preceptory’s proud history and significant contribution to the cultural, charitable and community life of Bangor and North Down; commends its continued commitment to Christian witness, fellowship and service; recognises the dedication of its members in preserving local heritage and supporting good causes; pays special tribute to Past Master John McCready, a member of the Ulster Defence Regiment, who was murdered by terrorists in 1976, and whose sacrifice is remembered with honour and dignity by his brethren; and extends best wishes to the Preceptory for continued success in its important work for many years to come.

That this House congratulates Olive Leaf Royal Black Preceptory No. 542, Bangor, on reaching its 75th anniversary; acknowledges the Preceptory’s proud history and significant contribution to the cultural, charitable and community life of Bangor and North Down; commends its continued commitment to Christian witness, fellowship and service; recognises the dedication...

That this House congratulates St. Columbanus’ College, Bangor, on reaching its 65th anniversary; recognises the College’s outstanding contribution to education and the local community since its founding; pays tribute to the dedication of its past and present staff, pupils, and families who have helped shape the school’s proud legacy; notes the celebration event marking this special milestone; and encourages as many current students, families, alumni, and former staff as possible to attend and join together in celebrating 65 wonderful years of St. Columbanus’ College.

That this House congratulates St. Columbanus’ College, Bangor, on reaching its 65th anniversary; recognises the College’s outstanding contribution to education and the local community since its founding; pays tribute to the dedication of its past and present staff, pupils, and families who have helped shape the school’s proud legacy; notes...

That this House notes with deep concern the continued distress of the families of the 29 people who lost their lives in the RAF Chinook helicopter crash at the Mull of Kintyre on 2 June 1994, including 25 personnel from MI5, the Royal Ulster Constabulary, and the British Army; further notes that the initial RAF Board of Inquiry attributed the cause of the crash to gross negligence by the pilots, a finding later discredited by Lord Phillips who recommended a formal apology to the pilots’ families; notes that concerns raised by those who worked on Chinooks, including safety and mechanical issues, have never been adequately addressed and that these concerns were revisited in the January 2024 documentary Chinook ZD576; is alarmed that key official documents relating to the crash have been sealed for 100 years, causing additional pain to the bereaved families and undermining public confidence in the official account; supports the Chinook Justice Campaign’s call for the immediate release of these documents and the establishment of a fully independent inquiry to fully and fearlessly examine the causes and circumstances of the crash; and urges the Secretary of State for Defence to act without delay to ensure transparency, accountability, and justice for the families affected.

That this House notes with deep concern the continued distress of the families of the 29 people who lost their lives in the RAF Chinook helicopter crash at the Mull of Kintyre on 2 June 1994, including 25 personnel from MI5, the Royal Ulster Constabulary, and the British Army; further...

That this House congratulates the Northern Ireland Branch bands and drum majors on their remarkable achievements at the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA) World Championships 2025; recognises the dedication and talent of all who competed, which placed the Branch firmly on the world stage; celebrates the junior drum majors, including world champion Lydia Todd of McNeillstown, alongside Jorja Turkington of Matt Boyd Memorial, Mia-lily Frazer of William Kerr Memorial, Holly Gracey of Clogher & District, Harry Cupples of Syerla & District, and Willow-Rose Elliott of RSPBANI; commends the juvenile drum majors, with world champion Ben Dickson of Drumlough, Louise Smiton of Closkelt, Carys Graham of Down Academy, Jamie-Lee Wilson of Bready Ulster Scots, and Grace Surphlis of Cloughfin; applauds the adult drum majors, including world champion Jamie Cupples of Ravara and Emma Barr of Field Marshal Montgomery; further recognises the band achievements of Queen Elizabeth in Grade 4B, Altnaveigh Memorial in Grade 4A, Syerla & District in Grade 3B winning the World Drumming Championship and second overall, Drumlough in Grade 3B, Major Sinclair Memorial in Grade 3A, and Field Marshal Montgomery in Grade 1; notes the pride these successes bring to Northern Ireland; and wishes every competitor and their supporters continued success in the years ahead.

That this House congratulates the Northern Ireland Branch bands and drum majors on their remarkable achievements at the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA) World Championships 2025; recognises the dedication and talent of all who competed, which placed the Branch firmly on the world stage; celebrates the junior drum majors,...

That this House strongly repudiates the recent comments made by television presenter Richard Madeley on Good Morning Britain in which he referred to Northern Ireland as economically close to being a basket case; notes that while Northern Ireland does receive a fiscal transfer from the UK Treasury, this is consistent with the functioning of a transfer union in which wealthier regions subsidise less affluent ones, a pattern repeated across the UK outside of London and the South East of England; highlights that the Office for National Statistics regularly records similar net fiscal deficits in other parts of the UK including the North West and North East of England; further notes that the phrase basket case is not an economic term of art and is typically associated with failed states suffering from hyperinflation, economic collapse, or international bailout, a categorisation which is wholly inappropriate and misleading when applied to Northern Ireland; regrets that such inflammatory language distorts serious discussion about regional economic performance; notes that the continued existence of an internal border down the Irish Sea as a result of the Northern Ireland Protocol and Windsor Framework only exacerbates economic uncertainty and hinders growth; and calls on media commentators to engage with the economic realities of all UK regions in a respectful, factual, and balanced manner.

That this House strongly repudiates the recent comments made by television presenter Richard Madeley on Good Morning Britain in which he referred to Northern Ireland as economically close to being a basket case; notes that while Northern Ireland does receive a fiscal transfer from the UK Treasury, this is consistent...

That this House notes with deep concern the proposed sale of Spirit AeroSystems, a key employer in Northern Ireland and an integral part of the UK aerospace supply chain; recognises the strategic importance of Spirit’s operations to major industry partners including Boeing, Airbus, and Bombardier; acknowledges the vital contribution of the workforce, represented by GMB and Unite the Union, in maintaining high-skilled manufacturing in the region; is alarmed by the potential loss of over 3,700 jobs and the wider economic impact across Northern Ireland; believes that the company should be kept together as a single, unified entity in order to maintain its operational integrity and safeguard the future of the UK aerospace sector; further notes the precedent of Government intervention in cases such as British Steel to protect strategically important industries; and calls on the Government to urgently convene a meeting with all relevant stakeholders and to explore all available options to ensure the continued viability of Spirit AeroSystems in the UK and the protection of all associated jobs.

That this House notes with deep concern the proposed sale of Spirit AeroSystems, a key employer in Northern Ireland and an integral part of the UK aerospace supply chain; recognises the strategic importance of Spirit’s operations to major industry partners including Boeing, Airbus, and Bombardier; acknowledges the vital contribution of...

That this House notes the recent comments by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, indicating that the decision to call a referendum on Irish unity could be based on opinion polls; further notes that these comments were published in an AgendaNI article and come at a time of renewed political sensitivity around the issue; recognises that under the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement and the Northern Ireland Act 1998, the decision to call such a referendum rests solely with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, who must be satisfied that a majority in Northern Ireland would likely express a wish to leave the United Kingdom and form a united Ireland; and calls on the Secretary of State to clarify the official position of the Government on the criteria used to trigger a border poll in order to maintain public confidence in the impartiality and legality of the process.

That this House notes the recent comments by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, indicating that the decision to call a referendum on Irish unity could be based on opinion polls; further notes that these comments were published in an AgendaNI article and come at a time of...

That this House congratulates Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy on his historic victory at the 89th Masters Tournament at Augusta National, becoming only the sixth male golfer in history to complete the modern career Grand Slam; notes that McIlroy’s triumph, following a dramatic sudden-death playoff against England’s Justin Rose, sees him join the legendary ranks of Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods as winners of all four major championships; pays tribute to his remarkable journey from his early days at Holywood Golf Club in County Down, where his talent was first nurtured and developed; recognises the immense pride his achievement brings to the people of Northern Ireland and the inspiration he provides to young athletes across the region; and acknowledges McIlroy’s continuing role as a global ambassador for Northern Irish sport, demonstrating the strength, character, and sporting excellence that his home nation contributes to the world stage.

That this House congratulates Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy on his historic victory at the 89th Masters Tournament at Augusta National, becoming only the sixth male golfer in history to complete the modern career Grand Slam; notes that McIlroy’s triumph, following a dramatic sudden-death playoff against England’s Justin Rose, sees him...

That this House warmly congratulates John Irvine on the significant milestone of receiving his 50-year jewel, honouring his exceptional dedication and unwavering service to Cottown Loyal Orange Lodge 1029; recognises with great appreciation the extensive range of leadership positions he has diligently undertaken within the Lodge, notably serving with distinction as Worshipful Master and Secretary; pays tribute to his pivotal role in the planning, execution, and successful completion of substantial refurbishment projects to the Lodge hall, particularly highlighting his instrumental efforts in securing essential improvements, including a new roof and upgraded kitchen facilities; acknowledges Mr Irvine’s dedicated service as District Lay Chaplain in Bangor District L.O.L No.18; further acknowledges his longstanding and steadfast commitment to Royal Black Preceptory 209, notably in his dedicated roles as Worshipful Master and Registrar, where he has consistently demonstrated outstanding devotion and loyalty; values his dedicated service and contribution to the local community through his key positions as Treasurer and Vice President of the esteemed Cottown Pipe Band; and extends its sincere gratitude for his many years of devoted community service.

That this House warmly congratulates John Irvine on the significant milestone of receiving his 50-year jewel, honouring his exceptional dedication and unwavering service to Cottown Loyal Orange Lodge 1029; recognises with great appreciation the extensive range of leadership positions he has diligently undertaken within the Lodge, notably serving with distinction...

That this House recognises the outstanding service of Trevor Magowan to Boys Brigade Northern Ireland; notes that he has been a member of Ballygrainey Presbyterian Boys Brigade Bangor NI for 64 years, 54 of them as an officer; further notes that he joined as a boy and progressed through the ranks to Captain; also notes that he has shown outstanding dedication and leadership to 1st Ballygrainey and has been a role model to hundreds of young men in our church and the community; recognises that despite health challenges in the past ten years he is still totally committed and has continued to inspire and set an example to young men; and notes that through the Boys Brigade Headquarters he was involved in training officer leaders from companies throughout Northern Ireland, encouraging them and sharing his own experiences.

That this House recognises the outstanding service of Trevor Magowan to Boys Brigade Northern Ireland; notes that he has been a member of Ballygrainey Presbyterian Boys Brigade Bangor NI for 64 years, 54 of them as an officer; further notes that he joined as a boy and progressed through the...

That this House congratulates Rory McIlroy on his outstanding victory at the 2025 Players Championship, marking his second triumph at this prestigious event; recognises his extraordinary talent, skill and unwavering dedication to the sport of golf, showcased by his exceptional performance in overcoming challenging conditions at Sawgrass; applauds his resilience, remarkable consistency and excellence in securing his 28th PGA Tour title, a testament to his continuing growth as a golfer, affirming that he is now a more complete and accomplished player than at any previous point in his illustrious career; acknowledges the pride and positive recognition he consistently brings to Northern Ireland through his achievements on the international stage; highlights the inspirational role he plays for aspiring athletes around the world, demonstrating the values of determination, professionalism and sportsmanship; and extends best wishes and support for his continued pursuit of further success, particularly in achieving his long-standing goal of completing the career Grand Slam at the Masters in Augusta.

That this House congratulates Rory McIlroy on his outstanding victory at the 2025 Players Championship, marking his second triumph at this prestigious event; recognises his extraordinary talent, skill and unwavering dedication to the sport of golf, showcased by his exceptional performance in overcoming challenging conditions at Sawgrass; applauds his resilience,...

That this House expresses deep concern over the decision of the Imperial War Museum to permanently close the Lord Ashcroft Gallery, which has displayed around 230 Victoria Cross and George Cross medals; notes that these medals represent the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of Britain’s service personnel; believes that removing them from public display is a disservice to the memory of those who earned them and to future generations who should have the opportunity to learn from their heroism; recognises the immense historical and educational value of these decorations and their associated stories; calls on the Imperial War Museum to reverse this decision and ensure that these medals remain accessible to the public; and urges the Government to work with relevant stakeholders to safeguard the continued exhibition of these important artefacts in a manner befitting their significance to the nation's history.

That this House expresses deep concern over the decision of the Imperial War Museum to permanently close the Lord Ashcroft Gallery, which has displayed around 230 Victoria Cross and George Cross medals; notes that these medals represent the extraordinary bravery and sacrifice of Britain’s service personnel; believes that removing them...