As world leaders and others continue to arrive in Northern Ireland to mark 25 years since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, the ACE has shared the latest iteration in its series of 2023 manifestos, which outlines the policy aspirations and priorities for the consultancy and engineering sector.

The Northern Ireland manifesto follows the release of ACE’s 2023 UK Manifesto earlier this year and is aimed at policymakers and stakeholders in and around Stormont.

On Monday (17 April 2023), a three-day conference began at Queen's University Belfast, welcoming many key figures who were involved in the 1990s peace talks.

In his foreword, Andrew Campbell, Chair of ACE Northern Ireland, highlighted the ongoing political challenges, saying “Members who live and work in Northern Ireland have also faced the very real consequences of political uncertainty, so this manifesto will also rely on a return to a collaborative government and a functioning executive.”

ACE CEO Stephen Marcos Jones said: “Northern Ireland is home to a vibrant and diverse engineering sector, with ACE members playing a central role in delivering innovative and transformative projects.”

“We believe that by working collaboratively with government, industry, and the wider community, we can make a positive difference and drive real change.”

The manifesto has been developed to provide a platform for ACE’s engagement on behalf of its members and the industry. Written with the expert input of its member-led devolved committee, they also provide a framework for activity at ACE in 2023 and beyond.

Olivia Smalley, ACE Policy and Advocacy Officer for the Devolved Committees said: “This is a timely publication and sets the tone for our ongoing engagement with stakeholders.”

“We believe that our manifesto provides a roadmap for achieving these goals and demonstrates the industry’s commitment to being part of the solution.”

“The Manifesto’s will play a major part in the programme of the Northern Ireland Committee’s work in 2023, with roundtable sessions with stakeholder and policy officials exploring many of the key recommendations.”

To get involved in ACE's Committee in Northern Ireland, please contact Olivia Smalley.

Find out more about ACE’s policy activity. Download your copy of the Northern Ireland Manifesto below.