Law Society of Northern Ireland welcomes Bryant appointment

The society said it had worked constructively with Hilary Benn MP and the Northern Ireland Office on the legal framework for addressing the legacy of the past and maintaining support for the rule of law during his time in office.

Speaking after the announcement, president of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, Mark Borland, said: “We welcome the appointment of Sir Chris Bryant MP as secretary of state for Northern Ireland and wish him well as he takes on the unique set of challenges facing our society.

“We look forward to working constructively with the secretary of state to improve access to justice, address the legacy of the past in Northern Ireland and maintain support for the rule of law.”

Sir Chris said: “I am really pleased to be the new secretary of state for Northern Ireland. It’s certainly daunting. It comes with heavy responsibility, and I am looking forward to getting properly stuck in.

“I want to be very clear from the outset: my door will be open to all parties and all communities. We are going to work together constructively to keep building a stable, prosperous future for everyone in Northern Ireland.

“Our focus is simple: maintaining political stability, promoting economic growth, and making sure devolved government delivers for people in their everyday lives. 

“We need to make sure that every young person sees an economic opportunity for themselves in Northern Ireland, and for their family. There is serious work ahead, and I am ready to get on with it.”