PM Burnham addresses cost of living and young people priorities in first visit to Northern Ireland

Prime Minister Andy Burnham visited Northern Ireland this week to discuss the cost of living, young people's priorities, and a broader growth agenda. During his first visit to the region since assuming the leadership role, Burnham met with First Minister Michelle O’Neill, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, and representatives from all five major political parties.

The Prime Minister emphasized his commitment to finding common ground through collaborative, practical, and pragmatic relations with the Northern Ireland Executive to benefit residents across the region. In Belfast, Burnham stressed his desire to foster genuine partnerships that would provide families with greater hope and relief from the burdens of rising living costs.

Burnham announced his intention to convene First Ministers from Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland in October to discuss strategies for fostering economic growth throughout the UK. Throughout his engagements, Burnham maintained a problem-solving approach, steering clear of point-scoring tactics. Prior to his meetings, the Prime Minister engaged with young people to understand their challenges and aspirations, including visiting a mentoring scheme within Belfast's vibrant music scene, aimed at promoting local artists and securing the city's designation as a UNESCO City of Music.

Burnham expressed his understanding of the residents' desire for more breathing room from the cost of living, well-paying jobs, and opportunities for their children. He acknowledged that past political point-scoring had made matters more complicated rather than easier. Burnham pledged to work alongside the Northern Ireland Executive and political parties to effect real change in communities, which he intends to convey during his subsequent meetings.