Snapshots of Devolution

Northern Ireland’s challenges did not end when it achieved Devolution.

The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement paved the way for Westminster to devolve powers to Northern Ireland. Although Direct Rule ended on 2 December 1999, devolved power was initially short-lived. The Assembly faced substantial periods of suspension and return to Direct Rule. Parties continued negotiations to agree on decommissioning and other obstacles to the survival of the new institutions.

Political developments and agreements led to the Assembly’s restoration in 2007. The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement was completed when Westminster devolved Policing and Justice powers to the Assembly in 2010. Northern Ireland currently has an operational legislative Assembly with 108 elected members from 18 constituencies. It also has a power-sharing coalition government, comprised of Ministers from the five main parties.This is known as the Executive Committee.

How will this political system continue to evolve in the future?

Try snapping photographs of the significant milestones from the early years of devolution. Can you peg them up in chronological order when you reach the dark room?