Michelle O’Neill (MLA – First Minister Northern Ireland)

Presentation Title: Leadership for a New Ireland: Responsibility in a Time of Change

Born in Fermoy, Co. Cork but moving to Northern Ireland during her childhood, Michelle O’Neill grew up in the Co. Tyrone village of Clonoe. Her early involvement in politics was born from a desire to create social change, this hope being further cemented by the hope and optimism brought about by the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.
 Michelle was proud to vote for the peace agreement, an agreement which brought to an end the 30 years of conflict and suffering that had afflicted society in Northern Ireland. The Good Friday Agreement has been pivotal in bringing about a determined and sustained desire for peace and reconciliation throughout the island of Ireland and Michelle has been a key figure in this Good Friday “generation” of politicians.  

Her election in February 2024 as First Minister of Northern Ireland was an event of historical proportions in that it saw her become the first nationalist to hold this office.  

Standing outside the bounds of possibility in previous generations, the Good Friday Agreement had allowed the seemingly impossible to become possible, with Northern Ireland now enjoying a more democratic and equal society that aimed to embrace all.  

However, despite the great social progress evident in Northern Ireland today, politicians must continue to work to ensure the prosperity and progression of all communities. New affordable homes must be built, high childcare costs must be addressed and public services must be properly funded to permit correct support of  workers and citizens at a time of high living costs and economic instability.  

Every day, in her role as First Minister, Michelle strives to consciously work for, and serve all, equally.  Her singular ambition is to seek positive and lasting change for everyone who calls this island of Ireland, home.