Kieran Kennedy Resigns from Invest NI, Cites Regional Discrimination

BREAKING: Kieran Kennedy, former chairman of O’Neill’s Sports, has resigned from the board of Invest NI amidst allegations of regional discrimination against the north west of Northern Ireland. The resignation, which took effect in June 2023, raises urgent concerns about the economic support and development in the area.

Kennedy’s departure was confirmed last night, following a BBC report detailing his frustration with Invest NI’s leadership. He expressed a lack of faith in the agency’s commitment to achieving regional balance during a recent board meeting, specifically regarding the agency’s office in Londonderry. Kennedy stated, “I have lost faith in their leadership team,” emphasizing that the north west has been systematically overlooked.

This development is significant as it reflects the growing sentiment of grievance in the north west. The region has suffered numerous economic setbacks, including the loss of 140 jobs at BT in April and ongoing issues with the proposed dualling of the A5. These events have left local communities feeling abandoned by the government.

Recently, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons announced funding recipients from the Northern Ireland Football Fund, yet none of the successful clubs were based in the north west, sparking outrage among fans. Former Coleraine manager Ruaidhri Higgins lamented, “Geographically, for me, the north west has been shafted again,” highlighting the region’s continued struggles.

The political landscape in the north west is marked by contention between Sinn Féin and the SDLP, adding another layer to the region’s challenges. Foyle MP Colum Eastwood condemned the executive’s failure to drive investment outside of Belfast, while Sinead McLaughlin, SDLP MLA, labeled Kennedy’s resignation a “damning indictment” of the lack of progress.

A spokesperson for Sinn Féin insisted the party prioritizes opportunities in the north west, promising to drive forward economic progress. However, the Department for the Economy acknowledged the ongoing challenges. Minister Caoimhe Archibald emphasized that regional balance is a top priority, noting that a sub-regional economic plan will allocate £5 million over three years to empower local businesses.

Invest NI pointed to recent investments by companies like Seagate, EY, Alchemy, and FinTrU, as well as growth at the Ulster University campus in Derry, as signs of progress. However, local leaders and residents remain skeptical about the efficacy of these initiatives.

As this situation develops, Kieran Kennedy’s resignation serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing economic struggles in the north west of Northern Ireland. Stakeholders are urged to watch closely for any changes in policy or investment that may arise in response to this urgent crisis.