What can we expect in 2026?

By Adam Newton With the Christmas holidays fading into a distant memory, the Assembly has returned from recess to begin the final full year of this already truncated mandate. While there was a perception the Assembly has been slow in progressing legislation, there is much to be done in 2026.

January has only just begun and we are already seeing the first public fallout from the Executive parties on the announcement of the public consultation on the draft multi-year budget. While the parties will have to come to an agreement on the allocations, this budget will be a pivotal moment for the years ahead.

It is the first multi-year budget in a considerable period of time and with public finances stretched the Executive will want to ensure they can demonstrate they are putting public sector finances on the best footing in the run up to the election.

The budgetary landscape has raised concerns, the prospect of multi-year budgeting will allow for Departments to take a forward-looking approach to how they allocate the finances. This approach should also allow for progress to be made on the transformation of public services, including within the health service, which has been widely discussed by all political parties in Northern Ireland.

In addition to the budget there will be an increase in legislation from both the Executive and through Private Members Bills over the course of the remainder of the mandate. This will see an increase in the scrutiny, with Committee and Plenary sessions being devoted to ensuring the Bills progress in a timely manner, while ensuring they are comprehensively debated.

Added to this will be the need to deliver on the Programme for Government (PfG) commitments, which commits the Executive to working together to address what matters most. The PfG has nine priorities including growing the economy, transforming healthcare, and delivering better public services. The Executive have committed to working in collaboration across government, communities and stakeholders. The delivery of the priorities will be a point of interest between now and the next election in May 2027.

Outside of the Assembly, the contest to be the next leader of the Ulster Unionist Party is underway. When Mike Nesbitt took on the role for a second time in October 2024 he made clear it was temporary to get the party into fighting shape for the next election. With the process complete he has confirmed he is stepping back, with a new Leader to be elected on 31 January. Some of the questions for the incoming Leader will include do you retain Mike Nesbitt as Health Minister up to the election? How can the party differentiate themselves from the other unionist parties? What will the new Leader want to achieve in advance of the next election?

It is clear this will be a vital year for the Assembly, one which will shape the next election and beyond. To help you navigate what lies ahead get in touch with us to discuss how we can support you on your journey.