FDA’s inaugural Insights into Public Service Leadership conference takes place in Belfast

The FDA Northern Ireland section held the inaugural ‘Insights into Public Service Leadership’ half-day conference and networking on Thursday 16 October 2025 for members and non-members in NI.

The first discussion of the conference was with FDA National Officer Jane Runeckles, who previously served for 20 years as special advisor to all Welsh First Minister’s since the inception of devolution, culminating in her role as Chief Special Advisor to former First Minister, Mark Drakeford. The session, moderated by FDA President Margaret Haig, discussed the tensions between devolved administrations and the Westminster government, particularly during the COVID-19 crisis where there was resistance from then UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to having regularly scheduled meetings with devolved leaders. Runeckles also highlighted that in her experience, working with several First Ministers and other devolved ministers, the most successful leaders are those who are able to articulate a clear vision and see it through.

Following this session, attendees heard from Orla McBreen, deputy Irish ambassador to the UK and Chair of the FDA’s sister union in the Republic of Ireland, the Association of Higher and Civil Public Servants (AHCPS). This session was also moderated by FDA President Margaret Haig. McBreen discussed the recent renewal in the British-Irish relationship which had been at a recent low as a result of the UK’s exit of the European Union and complexities of the border in Ireland. McBreen highlighted that while interpersonal relationships are important between diplomats and political leaders in ensuring constructive relationships, embedding structures for engagement is vital.

Lastly, attendees heard a panel discussion moderated by FDA National Officer for NI, Robert Murtagh, with former Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service Sir David Sterling KCB and Director of Pivotal think tank Ann Watt. Both Sterling and Watt agreed that there are significant challenges facing the NI Executive, particularly as a result of NI finances, and that clear political leadership is required to face these challenges.

The panel also discussed the importance of achievable and timely goals in the programme for government to support delivery. In response to a question about institutional reform, Watt said that we are unlikely to see any major reform in the short-term and Sterling reiterated his written evidence (alongside Sir Malcolm McKibbin former Head of the NI civil service and Dr Andrew McCormack former Permanent Secretary in the NICS) to the NI affairs committee that there have been periods of success under the current institutional framework and that ethical and bold leadership based on commitment and engagement is far more important than changes to formulae, codes, processes and structures.

The conference took place at the Victorian era Harbour Commissioner’s Office, situated on the banks of the river Lagan. When opening the conference, FDA NI Section Convenor Robbie Davis referred to the fact that to use the building, a donation was made to Lagan Search and Rescue, the Harbour Commission’s official charity for 2025, this is part of the FDA’s commitment to supporting local charities and community groups. Lunch was also provided by Loaf catering, a social enterprise supporting people with autism and learning disabilities. Davis also referred to the recent investment the FDA has made in NI as a result of our growth, with a new dedicated national officer and office space in Belfast.

The event concluded with final remarks from FDA General Secretary, Dave Penman, and a drinks reception sponsored by Connect: Helping organisations understand and shape public policy in Northern Ireland.