Queen's Policy Engagement

Government Communications in the 21st Century with Alex Aiken
2017-01-26 18:30 - 19:45 (Europe/London) | Moot Court Room, School of Law, Tower Building, Belfast, Antrim , BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
Alex Aiken, Executive Director for Government Communications at the Cabinet Office will deliver an address entitled “Government Communications in the 21st Century” in the Moot Court Room, Queen’s University Belfast on Thursday 26th January 2017 at 6.30pm.
Mr Aiken’s address will look at the function and importance of Government communications and he will take part in a question and answer session.
To register, click here.

Running Order
6.30pm Welcome
6.35pm Introduction by Professor David Phinnemore, Dean of Education, Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast
6.45pm Address by Alex Aiken
7.10pm Question and Answer Session with Alex Aiken
7.40pm Closing Remarks by Professor David Phinnemore

Labour market and employment: current trends
2017-01-25 13:30 - 15:30 | Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3XX, United Kingdom
The Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS) is the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, formally partnering a legislative arm of government – the Northern Ireland Assembly – with academia. Aiming to encourage debate and improve understanding, KESS provides a forum to present and disseminate research findings in a straightforward format, making those findings easily accessible to decision-makers. Seminars are free to attend. To register email raise@niassembly.gov.uk

Agenda
1.30pm – RaISe – Welcome

1.35pm – Assembly Committee Chair – Opening Remarks
1.45pm – Dr John Moriarty, Dr David Wright, Dr Dermot O’Reilly and Professor Allen Thurston (QUB) – Social Mobility in Northern Ireland

Both the 2008 and 2011 Programmes for Government placed economic growth and creation of enhanced high skill labour market opportunities to the fore among the strategic priorities for Northern Ireland. Intertwined with these objectives is an emphasis on the key role of improved educational attainment in driving opportunities for social mobility. Unfortunately, social mobility has been difficult to quantify satisfactorily, due to a lack of suitable datasets. However, data linking successive Census returns have recently become available, allowing for comparison of labour market progression between persons from different socioeconomic backgrounds. This seminar will demonstrate how such linked longitudinal data can be used as evidence of:
a. The extent of both absolute mobility (i.e. changes to occupational socioeconomic structures over time, both upwards and downwards) and of relative mobility (rates of movement between socioeconomic classes);
b. The extent to which key factors such as an individual’s gender, education attainment or history of disability may affect their opportunities for socioeconomic progression; and,
c. The relative importance of macro-level socioeconomic structures versus individual-level opportunities for upward mobility.
The seminar will conclude with an overview of how further linkage with administrative records around education are enabling us to further disentangle the routes to greater economic opportunity.

2.05pm – Prof Duncan McVicar (QUB) – Zero Hours Contracts, Job Quality and Impacts on Workers

Seven years on from the Great Recession, survey data suggest that the use of zero hours contracts (ZHCs) in the UK labour market continues to grow rapidly. In some sectors, such as care working, incidence may be over 50%. This seminar will begin by summarising what we know from existing studies on the prevalence of ZHCs across recent years and across industries and socio-demographic groups at the UK level. We will then consider what we can learn about the prevalence of ZHCs in Northern Ireland from existing survey data. Finally, we will consider the impact of ZHCs on worker outcomes such as wages and job satisfaction.

2.25pm – Dr Matt Jennings (Ulster) – ‘Quality of Life’: inclusion and resilience in community cultural development

Work within the arts sector is often precarious, inequitable and underpaid. Yet policy bodies increasingly recognise the social and economic benefits of the creative industries and cultural development. Management research has identified the flexible approach of arts organisations as a model for workplace relations everywhere. Yet the resilience of cultural workers can be tested when their livelihood is threatened. This can have serious implications for the communities with whom they work. This presentation will examine working conditions within the community arts sector of Northern Ireland, drawing on interviews with 20 experienced artists from a range of disciplines and backgrounds. All helped to deliver the Derry/Londonderry City of Culture 2013 and continue to provide vital support for: the wellbeing of older people, people with mental health issues and disabilities; the education of young people and children; and peacebuilding and social development. The findings demonstrate the complexity, commitment and resourcefulness of their working lives. However, increasingly they are working outside of the region or leaving the community sector. This presentation raises concerns for cultural inclusion within the new Department of Communities, but will also suggest innovative measures that could allow the sector to thrive, drawing on international examples of policy and practice.
2.45pm – Discussion

3.15pm – RaISe – Closing Remarks

3.20pm – Networking and Refreshments

Slugger Session in association with QPol – The Review of the Year SO FAR!
2017-01-19 19:30 - 21:30 | The Dark Horse, Hill Street , Belfast, Antrim, BT1 2LB, United Kingdom
We are less than two weeks into the new year and already it seems like we have a whole year’s worth of news stories behind us.
RHI, the collapse of the Assembly, potential elections and much more!
Join us next Thursday 19th of January for a Slugger Session as we explore all these issues with our panel of experts:

Allison Morris – Irish News Journalist
Dawn Purvis – Former MLA
Dr Margaret O’Callaghan – Historian and political analyst at Queen’s University
Prof Rick Wilford – Professor of Politics at Queen’s University
Alan Meban – Slugger Contributor and Political Commentator

Host for the evening is Slugger Deputy Editor David McCann.
To register please click here.

Prison reform - KESS Seminar
2017-01-18 13:30 - 14:45 | Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3XX, United Kingdom
The Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS) is the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, formally partnering a legislative arm of government – the Northern Ireland Assembly – with academia. Aiming to encourage debate and improve understanding, KESS provides a forum to present and disseminate research findings in a straightforward format, making those findings easily accessible to decision-makers. Seminars are free to attend. To register email raise@niassembly.gov.uk

Agenda
1.30pm – Welcome

1.35pm – Assembly Committee Chair – Opening Remarks
1.45pm – Dr Michelle Butler (QUB) – The Northern Ireland Prison Reform Programme: Progress Made and Challenges Remaining

With the devolution of justice powers to the Stormont Assembly following the Hillsborough Agreement (2010), a commitment was given to undertake a review of prison conditions, management and oversight. The findings emerging from this review fed into a significant penal reform programme which was launched in 2011 (DOJNI, 2011).
In the final report emerging from this review, 40 recommendations were put forward, outlining “the kind of prison system that could and should be constructed” (Prison Review Team, 2011: 5). The achievement of these 40 recommendations have been used by many as a barometer to judge the success of these reforms. Drawing on publically available administrative data, this presentation will reflect on the reform journey so far. Key achievements will be reviewed before moving on to discuss some of the main challenges remaining. Comparisons will be drawn with other jurisdictions and insights from academia will be put forward to demonstrate how evidence-based research can be used to inform policy development, practice and reform.
2.05pm – Discussion

2.35pm – RaISe – Closing Remarks

2.40pm – Networking and Refreshments

Children and young persons' attitudes and experiences - KESS seminar
2016-12-14 13:30 - 15:30 | Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3XX, United Kingdom
The Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS) is the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, formally partnering a legislative arm of government – the Northern Ireland Assembly – with academia. Aiming to encourage debate and improve understanding, KESS provides a forum to present and disseminate research findings in a straightforward format, making those findings easily accessible to decision-makers. Seminars are free to attend. To register email raise@niassembly.gov.uk

Agenda
1.30pm – Welcome

1.35pm – Assembly Committee Chair – Opening Remarks
1.45pm – Dr Stefanie Doebler (University of Liverpool), Dr Ruth McAreavey, Prof Sally Shortall and Dr Ian Shuttleworth (QUB) – Negativity toward immigrant out-groups among Northern Ireland’s Youth – are younger cohorts becoming more tolerant?

Negativity toward immigrants is a known problem in Northern Ireland. Media reports of racist hate crimes have been so frequent that Northern Ireland was famously dubbed the ‘race hate capital of Europe’. There exist several accounts on this, but the current knowledge-base has gaps regarding young people’s attitudes, and there is a lack of cohort comparisons. This paper examines cohort differences in, and predictors of negativity toward immigrant out-groups in Northern Ireland using data from the Northern Ireland Life and Times (NILT) and Young Life and Times (YLT) surveys 2004 to 2013. The main focus is on young people aged 16 and 18 to 24 years. Findings: Negativity toward immigrants has increased in recent years across all, but the youngest cohort. Segregation, sectarian attitudes and type of school are important predictors. Living in segregated areas and preference for a segregated neighbourhood are positively and social contacts and (religiously) mixed schooling negatively related to negativity toward immigrants. However, for the 16 year olds, not mixed schooling, but other school characteristics are statistically associated with lower levels of outgroup negativity.

2.05pm – Dr Gemma M. Carney and Dr Paula Devine (QUB) – Children’s attitudes towards old age: findings from the Kids Life and Times Survey 2015

Mindful of Northern Ireland’s history of religious and ethnic segregation, this paper investigates another, more prevalent form of segregation: age segregation. Public policy tends to divide people into age groups by virtue of the ‘natural’ association of childhood with schooling, middle age with work and old age with retirement. Leading scholars have argued that this age segregation can lead to absence of mutual understanding between generations, arguing that age segregation is a root cause of ageist social attitudes (Hagestad and Uhlenberg, 2006). This contention has not been tested, and as a result, little is known about what children think about ageing and older people. For these reasons, questions about ageing and older people were included in the 2014 Kids’ Life and Times (KLT) Survey, exploring the opinions of 10 and 11 years olds to ageing and ageism. We report the views of 4,757 10 and 11-year-old children, living in Northern Ireland. We present some timely and significant results which offer new research questions for policy-makers interested in how population ageing affects all age groups, particularly when societies are segregated along age lines.

2.25pm – Dr Dirk Schubotz, Dr Katrina Lloyd and Dr Martina McKnight (QUB) – A Question of Sport: Perspectives of Children and Young People

In 2015 ARK surveyed children and young people, who were at the end of their primary and post-primary education respectively, about their experiences of sport and physical activity. A module of questions on sport was included in the Kids Life and Times (KLT) survey of P7 children and the Young Life and Times (YLT) survey of 16-year olds. Approximately 5,200 10 and 11 year olds and 1,200 16-year olds responded. The survey included questions about the extent of regular physical activity and sport undertaken both inside and outside of school; about encouraging and prohibiting factors in relation to taking part in sport; self-assessed health; the role of sports idols; and enjoyment of sports. At this seminar we will present the key findings from this research. We will discuss how experience of, and access to, sport varies by gender, socio-economic background and rurality. We will also report on what type of physical activities children and young people most enjoy, and how the available infrastructure meets their needs.
2.45pm – Discussion

3.15pm – RaISe – Closing Remarks

3.20pm – Networking and Refreshments

Seminar on Article 50 litigation: UK, Northern Ireland and EU perspectives
2016-11-29 17:00 - 19:00 | Moot Court Room, School of Law, Tower Building, Belfast, Antrim , BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
The aim of the seminar is to discuss the recent rulings delivered by the High Courts in Northern Ireland (McCord, Re Judicial) and England and Wales (in R (Miller) v Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union) concerning the constitutional requirements to trigger Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union, in order to kick-start the process of negotiating the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.
Topics of discussion will include:

whether the triggering of Article 50 TEU can take place under the royal prerogative or requires an Act of Parliament
the legislative consent of the devolved nations and the possible involvement of the Court of Justice of the European Union in Brexit disputes

As the Article 50 disputes have now made their way up to the Supreme Court, the seminar participants will also discuss the key issues and arguments that may arise in the context of these proceedings.
The seminar will be chaired by Billy Melo Araujo from Queen’s University and the speakers from Queen’s are:

Professor Chris McCrudden
Dr Alex Schwartz 
Professor John Morrison
Professor Dagmar Schiek

This event is sponsored by Queen’s School of Law, the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence “Tensions at the Fringes of the European Union” project, and the Human Rights Centre.

Brexit: Challenges and Opportunities with Micheál Martin TD
2016-11-24 18:30 - 20:00 | Great Hall, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
Micheál Martin TD, Leader of Fianna Fáil will make an address entitled “Brexit: Challenges and Opportunities” in the Great Hall, Queen’s University Belfast on Thursday 24th November at 6.30pm.
The address will be followed by a question and answer session moderated by William Crawley, BBC NI Journalist and Broadcaster.

Running Order
6.30pm Welcome by William Crawley
6.35pm Introduction by Professor Richard English, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Internationalisation and Engagement, Queen’s University Belfast
6.45pm Address by Micheál Martin TD
7.15pm Question and Answer Session with Micheál Martin moderated by William Crawley
7.55pm Closing Remarks by Professor Richard English

Telling stories of hope and fear at ‘year’s end’
2016-11-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Antrim
Since time immemorial the season to huddle by the fireside and to shiver at tales of the supernatural is ‘year’s end’. Join us beneath the Gothic vaults of the Queen’s University Graduate School to exhume this history and bring forth fresh tales of terror from your own nightmares.

The evening will begin with a brief talk on how supernatural stories look backwards and forwards as tales of caution, horrors of the past and hopes for the future. Afterwards you can join a discussion featuring readings from ghostly stories led by seasonal horror expert Dr Derek Johnston. Or you can develop your own tale of the uncanny in a structured creative writing workshop with novelist and playwright Dr Darran McCann.
Free admission | Booking required
Event enquiries: derek.johnston@qub.ac.uk
Led by: Queen’s University Belfast
In partnership with: British Academy

Economy: incentivising investment and competitiveness and managing public debt - KESS Seminar
2016-11-23 13:30 - 16:30 | Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3XX, United Kingdom
The Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS) is the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, formally partnering a legislative arm of government – the Northern Ireland Assembly – with academia. Aiming to encourage debate and improve understanding, KESS provides a forum to present and disseminate research findings in a straightforward format, making those findings easily accessible to decision-makers. Seminars are free to attend. To register email raise@niassembly.gov.uk

Agenda
1.30pm – RaISe – Welcome

1.35pm – Assembly Committee Chair – Opening Remarks
1.45pm – Dr Gareth Campbell (QUB) – How should NI respond to Corporation Tax cuts in ROI and GB?

The Fresh Start Agreement committed the NI Executive to reducing the corporation tax rate in Northern Ireland to 12.5% from 2018. The intention was to make the tax rate in NI the same as in ROI, and lower than in GB. However, within the past year the Irish government has cut its tax rate on certain types of profits to just 6.25%. Meanwhile, the British government has promised to cut its tax on profits to 17%. Further corporation tax rate cuts in ROI are possible, and in GB are very likely. This research analyses how the NI Executive should respond. It argues that simply maintaining the 12.5% rate, the default approach, would be the worst possible option. Matching cuts on an ad hoc basis would be unlikely, and suboptimal even if it happened. A much better approach would be to publicly commit now to match any cuts in the GB rate, reducing the NI rate to 11.5% by 2020, and possibly to 7% by 2025 if the GB rate is cut further. The best approach would be to commit to more than match any cuts in the main rate of corporation tax, but leave the small profits tax rate unchanged.

2.05pm – Mr Richard Johnston and Miss Laura Heery (Ulster) – Competitiveness Scorecard for NI

Competitiveness is a key driver in the rate of economic growth and living standards. Ulster University’s Economic Policy Centre (UUEPC) developed the Competitiveness Scorecard on behalf of the Economic Advisory Group, taking a similar approach to the Republic of Ireland’s National Competitiveness Council. The Scorecard benchmarks NI’s relative competitiveness against a range of competitor nations over a five-year period in more than 150 indicators. There are eleven pillars that make up the Scorecard, including macroeconomic and fiscal sustainability, quality of life, environmental sustainability, business environment, business performance, education and skills and innovation, research and development. The presentation will focus on outcomes (economic, quality of life and environmental), the economic environment (labour supply, productivity etc.) and policy drivers (Education and skills, Innovation R&D etc.)
In overall terms, NI’s competitiveness performance has improved marginally over the last 5 years, but remains below average for the countries analysed within the Scorecard. In terms of individual pillars, NI performs well in the business environment, quality of life and business performance elements of the Scorecard. In contrast, NI’s performs less well in terms of productivity, employment & labour supply and macro and fiscal sustainability elements. The Competitiveness Scorecard acts as a barometer of relative competitiveness, acts as a useful tool to direct policy-makers towards the key issues that require intervention and also provides an indication of the scale of the challenge facing NI.
2.25pm – Discussion
2.45pm – Comfort Break

2.55pm – Dr Sharon McClements, Prof Martin Haran and Mr Andrew McErlane (Ulster) – Unlocking Benefits and Opportunities through Social Infrastructure

Research has established that social infrastructure provision positively influences economic growth and social development, and a review of historical spending in NI indicates an identified need to upgrade and replace social infrastructure. Yet, as the UK Government continues to implement its austerity policies, the NI Executive has been subject to imposed budgetary cuts and as a result, capital budgets have been restrained. Against this backdrop, there is a necessity to review social infrastructure provision policies and the mechanisms by which it is provided in NI.
Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) have been the predominant mechanism for large social infrastructure provision in the UK and will continue to be utilised through the new Private Finance 2 (PF2) model, introduced in 2013. Similarly, in the Scotland, the Scottish Futures Trust approach to infrastructure investment is based on joint ventures between the Scottish Territories and private sector partners. In providing the new NI Executive solution-based recommendations, this presentation deliberates on the application and compatibility of the strategic infrastructure investment approaches adopted by both UK and Scottish Governments as potential strategies for increased social infrastructure investment and the opportunity to enhance economic growth and social development in Northern Ireland.

3.15pm – Dr Dimitris P. Sotiropoulos (OU) – Options for public debt management

Austerity policies in the wake of the 2008 global financial meltdown have left a host of developed capitalist economies struggling with very high levels of sovereign indebtedness. Given that prospects for economic growth still remain anaemic, and that financial risks have not been completely eliminated, the recovery process is slow and fragile. Contemporary policy-making thus encounters an unusual debt overhang puzzle. How important is this issue for the European economies? Is there an easy way out? Should policy-makers continue to rely on ‘business as usual’, or should they seek answers in the unchartered waters of unorthodox solutions? How important is central banking to tackling the problem? Drawing on my policy proposal for the resolution to the European sovereign debt overhang and my book on the political economy of contemporary financialised capitalism, the seminar will discuss a number of policy options in relation to how public debt can be managed in a sustainable way. The key lessons to policy-makers are that economies with weak currencies are better off within monetary unions and that unorthodox central bank policies are the only means to overcome the contradictions of a monetary union in the absence of fiscal integration.
3.35pm – Discussion

4.05pm – RaISe – Closing Remarks

4.10pm – Networking and Refreshments

Abortion Policy and Law: key considerations - KESS Seminar
2016-11-16 13:30 - 15:30 | Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3XX, United Kingdom
The Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS) is the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, formally partnering a legislative arm of government – the Northern Ireland Assembly – with academia. Aiming to encourage debate and improve understanding, KESS provides a forum to present and disseminate research findings in a straightforward format, making those findings easily accessible to decision-makers. Seminars are free to attend. To register email raise@niassembly.gov.uk
Agenda
1.30pm – RaISe – Welcome

1.35pm – Assembly Committee Chair – Opening Remarks
1.45pm – Dr Kathryn McNeilly (QUB) – Beyond Article 8: The European Convention on Human Rights and Abortion in Cases of Fatal Foetal Abnormality and Sexual Crime

In November 2015 the Northern Ireland High Court determined prohibition of abortion in Northern Ireland in cases of fatal foetal abnormality and sexual crime incompatible with Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. This Article upholds the right to private and family life. While this was the only Article found to be violated by the High Court, submissions were also made to the Court on two other Articles of the Convention, namely the Article 3 right to be free from torture or inhumane or degrading treatment or punishment and the Article 14 right to non-discrimination. This presentation will outline in an accessible way the legal background and reasoning for the Northern Ireland High Court’s determination on Article 8, but will also return to case law of the European Court of Human Rights to explain why further incompatibility may be found under Article 3. This is significant in understanding not only the potential for this case on appeal, but also for future development and discussion of domestic law in this area.

2.05pm – Dr Fiona Bloomer (Ulster) and Dr Claire Pierson (Manchester Metropolitan University) – Morality policy under the lens – evidence based policy making on abortion versus myth-usage

This paper considers global trends in abortion policy using the framework of morality policy. The authors will explain how the controversy over abortion policy restricts legal reform, resulting in legislative lacunae and non-decision making. Using evidence from a British Academy funded analysis of debates in the Northern Ireland Assembly during the period 1998 to 2016, the authors demonstrate how such trends are visible in the Northern Ireland context. The authors present examples of myths used in political debate in Northern Ireland and counter these myths with academic evidence drawn from systematic scientific reviews to illustrate the problematic nature of basing policy on morality rather than fact.

2.25pm – Dr Lesley Hoggart, (OU) and Prof Sally Sheldon (Kent University) – Tensions in Abortion law and policy, and effects on women

This presentation will focus on the tensions between the legal and policy framework for abortion, and women’s abortion experiences, throughout the UK. First, we will report on a mixed methods study into different aspects of young women’s experiences (aged 16-24) of one or more unintended pregnancies ending in abortion in England and Wales. One key finding was that despite most abortions following contraceptive failures, women still internalised shame and blame. This reflects the continued stigmatisation of abortion. We then draw on a recently completed study of the home use of abortion pills in Northern Ireland (and elsewhere), highlighting some of the ways in which the current law fails either to prevent abortion or to protect women’s health. At a time when it is possible to end a pregnancy using pills that are readily available on line, it assesses some of the challenges for effective regulation and poses some fundamental questions regarding the need for legal reform.
2.45pm – Discussion

3.15pm – RaISe – Closing Remarks

3.20pm – Networking and Refreshments

History by Numbers
2016-11-09 10:30 - 16:00 | Riddel Hall, 185 Stranmillis Road , Belfast, Co Antrim , BT9 5EE, United Kingdom
This workshop will introduce A-level students to economics-based approaches to studying history, and show how quantitative historical data and economic theory can shed light on existing historical debates. The aim of this event is to get students to look at history from beyond specific times or places: to look at the economic forces that have shaped our world in the past and will continue to shape our world in the future.
Over the course of the day, students will be introduced to the field of economic history and the tools of the economic historian. Students will be given an introduction to historical data through the use of graphs, charts and tables, and will be encouraged to get to grips with historical data through interactive games and activities. Students will also be introduced to the research carried out by staff at Queen’s University Centre for Economic History (QUCEH).
Schools interested in participating in this event should contact Dr Alan de Bromhead at Queen’s Management School.

Waiting for a transplant on dialysis: living while dying with kidney disease
2016-11-07 16:00 - 19:00 | The Black Box (Main Room), 18-22 Hill Street, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT1 2LA, United Kingdom
The event will include a presentation centred on facing mortality with chronic disease, by Dr Jimmy McAleavey, currently a Lecturer in Creative Writing at the Seamus Heaney Centre/School of English, Queens University Belfast. Jimmy is an acclaimed scriptwriter and has written for feature films, written and directed short films, scripted TV drama and produced and directed factual TV.
We also plan a film viewing of a piece created by our newly established Renal Arts Group in collaboration with patients, academics and healthcare staff. The film portrays the devastating diagnosis of renal disease, with no cure, and the demanding treatments to be endured as health deteriorates whilst waiting for the elusive kidney transplant, not always available and in short supply.
A debate around improving knowledge of kidney disease and how we might improve the kidney donor rate will be held. This will be co-facilitated by a kidney surgeon and a patient.
For further information or to register for this event, please contact Dr Helen Noble at Queen’s University Belfast.

Who, what, where, when and why: apologies and dealing with the past
2016-11-07 12:00 - 14:00 | Flexible Teaching Space, Peter Froggatt Centre, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
This is the first in a series of three events from the ESRC-funded project ‘Apologies, abuses and dealing with the past: A socio-legal analysis’.
Using Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland as a case study, the event will explore the relationship between apologies, abuses and dealing with past harms across three topics (paramilitary violence, institutional child abuse and the economic crisis). In contrast to existing research on apologies, this seminar focuses on the views of apologisers, victims and the general public.
We will begin with an overview of our approach to this work. The first draft of our universal template for the construction of a ‘legitimate’ apology will then be circulated, with a chance for group discussion and anonymous feedback.
One of the key aims of this stakeholder seminar is to inform further detailed empirical research in this area.
For further information and to register, please email Dr Anna Bryson at Queen’s University Belfast.

How can social science help community relations in Northern Ireland?
2016-11-05 19:00 - 21:00 | The Black Box (Main Room), 18-22 Hill Street, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT1 2LA, United Kingdom
This event will present work by researchers at Queen’s University that uses the theories and methods of political science and social psychology in order to help community relations in Northern Ireland. A series of talks will be followed by a roundtable discussion with Dr Paul Nolan, the author of the Peace Monitoring report, and representatives of the Community Relations Council.
The short talks will be introduced by Professor Orla Muldoon of the University of Limerick, who has completed extensive research into the psychological mechanisms underpinning intergroup relations and identity in Ireland. The presentations will focus on Citizen’s Assemblies as a potential form of democratic decision-making, inter-community trust, the role of police in Northern Ireland, and the ‘Northern Irish’ national identity.
This event will appeal to anyone with a general interest in local politics and how social scientific theories can inform the real-world practice of promoting harmonious relations.
For further information and to register, please email Kevin McNicholl at Queen’s University Belfast.

Intersectionality in Law, Policy and Society
2016-10-26 13:00 - 17:45 | Canada Room and Council Chamber, Queen's University Belfast, University Road, Belfast, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
This is a half-day international interdisciplinary postgraduate research workshop on intersectionality, where Professor Sandra Fredman, FBA, QC (University of Oxford, United Kingdom), will be giving the key note speech entitled “Intersectional Discrimination in the European Union.”
The full programme can be accessed here.
Attendance is free, but registration is required (click here to register).
For guidance on reaching the workshop venue or for contacts where you can reach the conference organisers, please consult the welcome pack.

Outcome of the European referendum: a Northern Ireland perspective
2016-10-12 13:30 - 16:30 | Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3XX, United Kingdom
The Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS) is the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, formally partnering a legislative arm of government – the Northern Ireland Assembly – with academia. Aiming to encourage debate and improve understanding, KESS provides a forum to present and disseminate research findings in a straightforward format, making those findings easily accessible to decision-makers. Seminars are free to attend. To register email raise@niassembly.gov.uk
Agenda
1.30pm – RaISe – Welcome

1.35pm – Assembly Committee Chair – Opening Remarks
1.45pm – Prof John Garry (QUB) – The EU referendum Vote in Northern Ireland: Implications for our understanding of citizens’ political views and behaviour

Politics in Northern Ireland is typically dominated by the ethno-national divide between Catholic nationalists and Protestant unionists. The EU referendum presented an opportunity for a major political issue to cross-cut this division, with variation in both communities on the issue of EU membership. In this presentation I use data from a large scale representative survey conducted at the time of the referendum (number of respondents = 4,000) to investigate the following questions: What kind of citizens participated in the referendum and what kind of citizens abstained? What is the demographic profile of ‘Remain’ voters and ‘Leave’ voters?
I investigate the relationship between vote behaviour and age, gender, social class, and education. What is the attitudinal profile of ‘Remain’ voters and ‘Leave’ voters? I investigate the relationship between vote behaviour and positions on the nationalist-unionist issue area, on economic left-right matters and on socio-moral (conservative versus liberal) issues. The data used is from a project funded by the Economic and Social Research Council on which I am the Principal Investigator.
Overall, the presentation provides a strong evidence-based discussion of who voted in the referendum, how they voted and how their voting relates to demographic and attitudinal characteristics. The presentation discusses the implications of the findings for our understanding of contemporary Northern Ireland politics and the use of referendums to address political issues.

2.05pm – Dr Graham Brownlow (QUB) – Opportunity Brexit? Institutional Economic Implications for Northern Ireland

The vote for Brexit has created a situation where economic policy, to a certain extent, is developing faster than textbook theory. Northern Ireland’s economic predicament is a combination of UK-wide processes, more intense forms of UK-wide problems and processes unique to the region. The speed, sequence and ‘architecture’ of regional economic policy-making, as well as its content, requires consideration if Brexit is to provide an economic opportunity. Designing appropriate economic policy responses requires considering not just the policies to be pursued, but also the design of the organisations needed to implement policies.

2.25pm – Dr Lee McGowan and Dr Viviane Gravey (QUB) – EU Policy Competences after Brexit: Issues for Northern Ireland

Many aspects of public policy in Northern Ireland involved an EU dimension, being shaped in Brussels and implemented locally. The return of devolved government to Northern Ireland opened up new possibilities for engagement with the EU, provided access to specific funds and gave Northern Ireland a presence in Brussels. What does Brexit mean for Northern Ireland? Following Brexit (former) EU competences will become the responsibility of the devolved administrations but are they ready to develop, fund and administer these aspects of public policy? This presentation focuses on two policy areas, namely agriculture and the environment. Both have played a significant role in Northern Ireland in terms of funding (through, for example, the Single Farm Payment) and legislation (Habitats Directive; Waste Directives). As the UK government prepares its negotiation strategies, there are many questions to raise over the EU impact on both and the future shape of a Northern Irish agricultural policy and which areas of EU environmental legislation to keep or abandon.
2.45pm – Discussion
3.05pm – Comfort Break
3.10pm – Dr Katy Hayward (QUB) – The Implications of Brexit for the Irish Border: Challenges and Options

A key conundrum facing policymakers is how to realise a central ambition of the Brexit campaign (i.e. hardening the UK’s borders with the EU) without damaging the benefits currently ensured by the UK’s ‘soft’ borders with Ireland. This presentation will focus on the Irish border as the locus of this challenge – one which has particular implications for the cohesion of the UK and political stability within NI. It will first identify the likely fracture points and, indeed, yield points in cross-border cooperation on the island. It will then outline different options for managing the UK/Ireland border flows and governance in the potential context of the UK’s exit from the EU.

3.30pm – Prof David Phinnemore (QUB) – Northern Ireland and Brexit: Limits and Opportunities for a New Relationship with the EU

The prospect of Brexit begs questions of what new relationship the UK can and should seek to establish with the EU and how Northern Ireland can and should position itself in that relationship. Given the remain vote and post-Brexit the challenges posed not least by its geographical location, what if any options are there for a bespoke status for Northern Ireland? The presentation reviews established and more recent options against the backdrop of established principles underpinning the nature and content of the relationships the EU has established with European neighbours, as well as bespoke arrangements established for specific regions within partner and member states.

3.50pm – Discussion

4.10pm – RaISe Closing Remarks

4.15pm – Networking and Refreshments

Political Studies Association of Ireland Annual Conference
2016-10-07 12:30 - 2016-10-09 13:30 | Europa Hotel, Great Victoria Street, Belfast, Antrim, BT2 7AP, United Kingdom
The Annual Conference of the Political Studies Association of Ireland (PSAI) will take place in the Europa Hotel, Belfast, over the weekend of 7-9th October 2016.
The Conference starts at 12.30pm on Friday 7 October and ends at 1.30pm on Sunday 9 October.
Check out the Conference Programme and register here.

Women and Leadership in a Changing World - International Conference
2016-09-22 17:30 - 2016-09-23 17:00 | Riddel Hall, 185 Stranmillis Road , Belfast, Co Antrim , BT9 5EE, United Kingdom
Queen’s University Belfast presents a major international conference that explores the role of women in leadership positions in a changing world. Organised jointly with the University of Massachusetts at Lowell, the conference brings together an excellent line-up of speakers from across the UK, Ireland and USA, speakers who have broken through the glass ceiling in politics, law, business and higher education as well as inspirational young women breaking the mould.
This opportunity to learn from and take part in discussions on a range of topical issues concerning leadership and gender is not to be missed!
For further information and to register, please visit the conference web site.

Northern Ireland at the Edge – what next after "BREXIT"?
2016-09-15 14:00 - 17:00 | Moot Court Room, School of Law, Tower Building, Belfast, Antrim , BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
This half-day symposium focuses on the consequences of the UK’s future relationship with Ireland, north and south, including the potential of the EU’s external border crossing the island of Ireland.
Two panels will discuss options of maintaining EU membership for parts of the UK, the Common Travel Area and existing relations between the EU and other European States.
This event is jointly organised with the Royal Irish Academy.
Programme
2.00–2.15 Opening and Introduction:

John Morison MRIA, Professor of Law, Queen’s University Belfast
David Phinnemore, Professor of European Politics, Jean Monnet Chair European Political Science, Queen’s University Belfast

2.15–3.15 Inside, Outside and the possibilities of ‘special status’

Jo Shaw, Salvesen Chair of European Institutions, University of Edinburgh
Trevor Redmond, Assistant Legal Adviser, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ireland
Ulrik Pram Gad, Ass. Professor Cultural & Global Studies, Alborg University, Denmark

Chair Dagmar Schiek, Professor of Law, Jean Monnet ad personam Chair EU Law & Policy, Queen’s University Belfast
3.45–4.45 Alternatives to EU membership—EEA, EFTA and special arrangements

Sieglinde Gstöhl, Professor & Director of Studies, College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium
Ulf Sverdrup, PhD, Director of the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs, Norway
Christine Kaddous, Professor and Director of the Centre d’études juridiques européennes (CEJE) of the University of Geneva, Switzerland

Chair Lee McGowan, PhD, Jean Monnet Chair in European Integration, Queen’s University Belfast
4.45–5.00 Conclusions
Rory Montgomery, Permanent Representative of Ireland to the EU
This event is co-organised by the Royal Irish Academy (RIA) and the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence Tensions at the EU Fringes (TREUP) at Queen’s University Belfast, in cooperation with “The UK in a Changing Europe”.

After the referendum – what next for the European Union and the UK?
2016-06-29 12:30 - 14:00 | Lanyon Building 0G/074, Queen's University Belfast, University Road, Belfast, Antrim, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
On 24 June, the result of the UK’s EU referendum was announced: a slim majority voted LEAVE, while majorities in Northern Ireland and Scotland favoured “REMAIN”. Presently, there is no decision on whether the UK will trigger Article 50 TEU and withdraw from the EU.
If it does, there are myriads of questions to be addressed: how does the process work? Should regions that voted remain be dragged out of the EU with England and Wales? What becomes of policies and laws once implemented as a result of EU membership? What does this mean for UK citizens abroad in the EU and EU citizens in the UK? What is the impact on the border of Northern Ireland?
The European Union will not remain the same, whatever happens. The referendum process has highligthed serious questions which must be addressed. How to revive the promise of improving working and living conditions in such ways that poorer citizens do not feel let down by the EU? What about planned legislation on mobile EU citizens, the future of social Europe and EU environmental policies? How to address right wing populism and violence, so sadly illustrated by the death of Jo Cox? These are only some of the most urgent ones….
Experts from Queen’s University’s Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence “Tension at the Fringes of the European Union” (TREUP) offer a first reflection in the week after the referendum, professionally moderated by Julia Paul (QUB, School of English, BBC freelancer). This panel will be composed of

Dr Mary Dobbs (Queen’s University, School of Law)
Prof. Yvonne Galligan (Queen’s University, School of Politics, International Studies and Philosophy)
Dr Lee McGowan (Queen’s University, School of Politics, International Studies and Philosophy)
Dr Brian Jack (Queen’s University, School of Law)
Dr Billy Melo Araujo (Queen’s University, School of Law)
Prof. John Morison (Queen’s University, School of Law)
Prof. David Phinnemore (Queen’s University, School of Politics, International Studies and Philosophy)
Prof. Dagmar Schiek (Queen’s University, School of Law, leading TREUP)

To register for this event please click here.

While we are open to spontaneous questions, questions can also be sent in advance to treup@qub.ac.uk

Hillsborough The Truth: In conversation with Phil Scraton
2016-06-28 18:30 - 20:30 | Great Hall, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
Come along on Tuesday 28 June 2016 to the Great Hall in Queen’s University Belfast to listen to Professor Phil Scraton talk about the latest edition of his book “Hillsborough The Truth”, which is widely accepted as a definitive account of the Hillsborough disaster and its aftermath.
To register please click here.

Running Order
6.30pm Refreshments
7pm Féile Women’s Singers
7.15pm Overview by Professor Phil Scraton
7.35pm In conversation with Professor Phil Scraton
8.20pm Book signing

Supporting the education of children in care: what helps?
2016-06-22 09:15 - 16:00 | NICVA Offices, 61 Duncairn Gardens , Belfast, Antrim, BT15 2GB, United Kingdom
The Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation (CESI) at Queen’s University is organising a free one-day conference that will bring together carers, professionals, researchers and policy makers from a range of organisations and backgrounds to focus on how best to support the education of children in care.

Delegates will be encouraged to share ideas, experiences and research findings with the aim of promoting best evidence and creating a shared agenda for future action.

Programme
08.45 Arrival
09.15 Opening remarks – QUB Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation
09.30 The policy context – Department for Education Northern Ireland
10.00 Care makes a difference – Prof Sebba, University of Oxford
11.00 Break
11.30 Tutoring makes a difference – Prof Flynn, Ottawa University
12.30 Lunch
13.30 Fostering Network NI – Fostering achievement makes a difference
14.00 VOYPIC – Right to learn promoting learning for children in care
14.30 QUB – Promoting the social and emotional wellbeing in schools
15.00 Break
15.15 Foster Care Associates – Team parenting makes a difference
16.00 Going forward
Please register here for this free conference.

KESS Seminar: Understanding and supporting cultural diversity
2016-06-15 13:30 - 16:00 | Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3XX, United Kingdom
Understanding and Supporting Cultural Diversity
Running Order
1.30pm – RaISe – Welcome
1.35pm – Assembly Committee Chair – Opening Remarks
1.45pm – Dr Piotr Blumczyński (Queen’s) and Prof John Gillespie (Ulster) – Translating Values: Insights from Multilingual and Multiethnic Focus Groups in Northern Ireland
Culture revolves around values: they hold the cultural community together and underpin the mutual interests. A cultural group whose members hold opposite or otherwise incompatible values is hardly conceivable, which demonstrates that the concept of culture is predicated on shared values. However, values are often “invisible” (Hofstede 2001: 11), i.e. wrapped in thick layers of cultural material inseparable from ethnic and linguistic considerations. Changing a language (e.g. when moving to a foreign country) will affect a range of attitudes and perceptions, including a sense of belonging (or displacement), fulfillment (or frustration), inclusion (or exclusion), dignity (or humiliation), etc., all translating into social integration, cohesion, and respectful co-existence.
This presentation reports on a recent collaborative research project “Translating values” (funded by Arts and Humanities Research Council) whose findings were consulted broadly with a range of multi-ethnic and multilingual communities across Northern Ireland (Belfast, Cookstown, Londonderry) through a series of focus groups held in 2015. It provides insights into the complex interactions between linguistic, cultural and religious communities by exploring shared and conflicting systems of values and evaluative concepts, with a view to improving translation and interpreting practice and informing cross-community relations as well as relevant elements of public policy.
2.05pm – Dr Caroline Linse (Queen’s) – Formal and informal translation and interpretation for immigrants and asylum seekers
As of 2011 there were over 50,000 migrants who speak a language other than English or Irish at home, residing in Northern Ireland. Many of these individuals do not possess adequate levels of English language proficiency in order to access services. Research funded by the Northern Ireland Inclusion and Diversity Service was conducted to determine the home-school connections of culturally and linguistically diverse families in Northern Ireland. It revealed that there are a wide variety of ways that translation and interpretation services are offered for families not fluent in English within the school settings. Drawing upon the findings from the research in Northern Ireland, this presentation provides an overview of the types of translation and interpretation taking place in Northern Ireland; the advantages and disadvantages of each; and recommendations for agencies utilizing both formal and informal translation and interpretation.
The presentation also includes references to work in this area in other contexts, as well as specific guidelines for agencies using both formal and informal translation and interpretation. These guidelines help ensure that the translations are conducted in a professional manner for all agencies providing services.
2.25pm – Discussion

2.55pm – RaISe – Closing Remarks
3.00pm – Networking and Refreshments

The EU Referendum & Northern Ireland: ask the experts
2016-06-07 18:30 - 20:00 | Canada Room and Council Chamber, Queen's University Belfast, University Road, Belfast, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
In the run-up to the UK referendum on continued EU membership, opinions are divided and very pronounced. Most agree that this is one of the most important decisions in this decade for the electorate to take. The polls suggest that the referendum will be contested and each individual vote (or decision not to vote) will make a difference.
With such an important decision ahead, we invite you to reflect on the EU referendum and put questions to experts from Queen’s and beyond. BBC’s Declan Lawn will chair a panel made up of the following EU specialists:
Professor Catherine Barnard, Cambridge University, Professor of European Law
Dr Lee McGowan, Queen’s University Belfast, Lecturer in Politics and International Studies
Professor Anand Menon, The UK in a Changing Europe
Dr Angus Armstong, National Institute of Economic and Social Research, Economic Expert
Professor Dagmar Schiek, Queen’s University Belfast, Professor of Law, Jean Monnet ad personam Chair for EU Law and Politics
This event is being organised in partnership with The UK in a Changing Europe and Queen’s University Belfast.
Would you like to put a question to the panel? Write to Professor Dagmar Schiek
Join the conversation on twitter with the hashtag #EUAsk and to register click here.

Mobility & Equality in the EU: Friend or Foe?
2016-06-07 13:00 - 16:15 | Room 27:101, 27 University Square, Belfast, Antrim, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
Is Free Movement, or mobility, of Persons in the European Union still maintained as a fundamental principle under the UK’s threat to withdraw from the EU? Or will the EU betray its principles and foreswear equal treatment of free moving citizens? An afternoon seminar chaired by Professor Dagmar Schiek, Queen’s.
Some highlights
Keynote

The Benefits of Benefits: the Changing Face of Free Movement in the European Union
Prof. Catherine Barnard, University of Cambridge, UK

Papers include

The Seasonal Workers Directive: ‘… but some are more equal than others’
Dr Margarite Helena Zoeteweij, University of Fribourg,Switzerland

Revision of the Posted Workers’ Directive
Dr Rebecca Zahn, University of Strathclyde, UK

Local Communities and the Protection of Rights for Intra-EU Migrants in Great Britain: A Necessary Burden
Dr Michael Johns, Laurentian University, Ontario, Canada

Chairs / Discussants / Summary
Professor Dagmar Schiek, Dr. Bal Sokhi-Bulley, (both Queen’s University Belfast (UK); Dr. Nikos Vogiatzis, (University of Liverpool, UK)

Brexit: Key Considerations for Northern Ireland KESS Seminar
2016-05-24 13:30 - 16:00 | Senate Chamber, Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast, Antrim, BT4 3XX, United Kingdom
The Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS) is the first of its kind in the United Kingdom, formally partnering a legislative arm of government – the Northern Ireland Assembly – with academia. Aiming to encourage debate and improve understanding, KESS provides a forum to present and disseminate research findings in a straightforward format, making those findings easily accessible to decision-makers.
Seminars are free and the next one is entitled Brexit: Key Considerations and will be held on Tuesday 24 May at 1.30pm in the Senate Chamber, Parliament Buildings.
Printed by:
Research and Information Service (RaISe), Northern Ireland Assembly – RLS@niassembly.gov.uk
Promoted and Published by:
Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS) – raise@niassembly.gov.uk

Agenda
The agenda is as follows:
1.30pm – RaISe – Welcome
1.35pm – Assembly Committee Chair – Opening Remarks
1.45pm – Prof David Phinnemore (Queen’s University) – Avoiding Brexit? The Renegotiated Terms of the UK’s EU Membership
The presentation reviews the nature and content of the outcome of the United Kingdom (UK) government’s attempt to renegotiate the terms of the UK membership of the EU. The presentation reviews the agreement reached and assesses its significance for the nature of the UK’s membership of the EU. Particular attention is paid to the specific political, economic and social implications for Northern Ireland. The presentation also assesses the extent to which the outcome of the negotiations addresses key political concerns and considers its implications for the “EU referendum” and the likelihood of a Brexit.

2.05pm – Dr Lee McGowan (Queen’s University) – Does Europe matter? The implications of a Brexit for Northern Ireland
Ahead of a now imminent referendum on the United Kingdom’s (UK) membership of the European Union (EU) this presentation addresses the specific issue of how much the EU dimension matters to Northern Ireland and considers the implications of a Brexit for this region of the UK. It is divided into two main parts. The first provides an overview considering the regional context and how the possibility of a Brexit raises particular issues for Northern Ireland, not least given it is the only part of the UK that shares a land border with an EU member state. The second, and main section, explores a series of salient issues for Northern Ireland, including the potential impact of Brexit on business, trade and investment, the financing of agricultural and fisheries, university research funding and student mobility exchanges.

2.25pm – Dr Cathal McCall (QUB) – Brexit and Britain’s Borders
The Brexit campaign for the UK exit from the European Union (EU) poses significant questions for the UK’s borders, the most pertinent of which is: where would a Brexit hard border run? The goal of the Brexit campaign is to re-border Britain through recreating borders as security barriers in order to halt the influx of “outsiders.” However it is unclear where the Brexit border would run. Three Brexit bordering options present themselves: Border the UK of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, with implications for the Irish national community and peacebuilding in Northern Ireland, across the island of Ireland and between Britain and Ireland; Border Britain, with implications for the unionist community in Northern Ireland; Border the British Isles, with implications for Ireland’s continued EU membership. This presentation addresses each of these options.
2.45pm – Discussion
3.15pm – RaISe – Closing Remarks
3.20pm – Networking and Refreshments

Do you want to know more about dementia and Alzheimer's?
2016-05-23 18:00 - 20:00 | Island Hall, Lagan Valley Island Conference Centre , Lisburn, Antrim, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
Scientists, academics and those involved in Alzheimer’s and dementia care from across Northern Ireland will come together on Monday 23rd May in the Island Hall of Lagan Valley Island Conference Centre, Lisburn to hold a free public meeting to discuss the latest research on dementia and Alzheimer’s, as well as current treatments.
The meeting will involve short talks from clinicians and researchers, followed by the opportunity for those attending to engage in roundtable discussions with those involved in dementia care and ask questions or have their concerns addressed.
The aim is an informal and informative event that benefits members of the public and anyone with an interest in dementia care and research.
No booking required. Refreshments will be available from 5.30pm with the discussion starting at 6pm.

Irish Politics 1916-2016: Continuity and Change Panel Discussion
2016-05-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Lanyon Building 0G/074, Queen's University Belfast, University Road, Belfast, Antrim, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
This Friday evening 13th May, as part of the biennial Political Studies Association of Ireland (PSAI) Postgraduate Conference, a plenary event will take place in conjunction with QPol, Queen’s University’s public policy engagement initiative.
The theme of the overall conference is ‘Irish Politics 1916-2016: Continuity and Change’ and the plenary session will consider this theme in the context of the 2016 elections in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
The panel will be chaired by Mark Devenport, Political Editor for BBC Northern Ireland, and speakers will include:

Mary Lou McDonald TD, Deputy Leader of Sinn Féin
Jack Chambers, Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin West
David McCann, Commentator and Deputy Editor of Slugger O’Toole news and opinion portal
A representative of the Democratic Unionist Party, TBC

The panel session will take place in the Lanyon Building, 0G/074, at Queen’s University from 6:00pm – 8:00pm and is open to all. Please register here via Eventbrite.

2016 Annual Gibson Lecture at the Gibson Institute
2016-05-09 17:30 - 19:30 | Lecture Theatre 1, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road , Belfast, Antrim , BT9 7AE, United Kingdom
The 2016 Annual Gibson Lecture at the Gibson Institute, Queen’s University, will be delivered by the European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Phil Hogan.
The lecture, entitled ‘Effect of Brexit on Irish Agriculture: North and South’ takes place on Europe Day itself, Monday 9 May 2016 at 6pm at Lecture Theatre 1, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast.
Reception is from 5.30pm with everyone welcome to attend this public lecture.
The greatest issue facing the agriculture and food sectors in a generation will be publically discussed by Europe’s leading agricultural policymaker. This is your opportunity to hear directly the opinion of those in charge of the Common Agricultural Policy and to take part in an open question and answer session directly after Commissioner Hogan’s presentation.

The featured image in this article has been used thanks to a Creative Commons licence.

Towards a People Powered Politics
2016-03-18 17:00 - 19:00 | Great Hall, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT7 1NN, United Kingdom
How could politics evolve to make the most of a population’s collective intelligence? How can expertise feed into decision-making? How can the public engage as policies are considered, decided on and implemented? Geoff Mulgan will share his thoughts on some promising answers from around the world which could point to very different ways of organising politics in the future.
Between 1997 and 2004 Geoff had various roles in the UK government including director of the Government’s Strategy Unit and head of policy in the Prime Minister’s office. Before that he was the founder and director of the think-tank Demos and the first Chief Executive of the Young Foundation, which became a leading centre for social innovation. He has also been Chief Adviser to Gordon Brown MP; a lecturer in telecommunications; an investment executive; and a reporter on BBC TV and radio. Under his leadership as CEO, Nesta has moved out of the public sector to become a charity (in 2012), launched a range of new initiatives in investment, programmes and research, and has implemented a new strategy involving partnerships with other funders in the UK and internationally.
His recent books include The Art of Public Strategy – Mobilising Power and Knowledge for the Public Good (OUP, 2008), Good and Bad Power: the ideals and betrayals of government (Penguin, 2006) and Connexity (Harvard Business Press and Jonathon Cape, 1998). His latest book The Locust and the Bee was published by Princeton University Press in March 2013.
This event is organised by QPol as part of Imagine: Festival of Ideas and Politics 2016
To book your place click here.
