Since May, there’s been a major change to the way in which the Assenbly has functioned. John McCallister’s Opposition Bill established the Official Opposition in order to, in his words, “pave the way to normal politics”.

It’s already resulted in major upheaval. Following May’s Election, both the Ulster Unionists and SDLP chose to enter opposition, rather than take the seats around the Executive table they were entitled to.

The new Official Opposition has enhanced speaking rights, and days devoted to Opposition business. But there are still questions to be answered. How is it working in practice? How are the two Opposition parties finding it? And what does it mean for those seeking to engage with the Assembly?

To give you a chance to ask those questions, and more, the Northern Ireland Government Affairs Group has arranged a breakfast seminar on October 14. Featuring two of the brightest stars of their respective parties, Steve Aiken and Claire Hanna, it promises a unique insight into the workings of our Assembly’s newest constitutional feature.

Reserve your place on this unique seminar on our Eventbrite page. For more information, or for assistance booking, get in touch at nigovernmentaffairs@gmail.com.