A Big Thanks

 A big thanks to all those who contributed to the success of the CIPFA conference held on 29th September – speakers, delegates, sponsors, exhibitors, Branch members and organisers.

The ‘fresh approach’ to the conference structure worked well and not only did the speakers in the high quality programme excel and delegates contributed to debate, there were a number of encouraging messages coming through loud and clear.  These included the prospect of strong political leadership in the next four years, the need for simplification of public sector procurement and greater involvement of the third sector and social enterprises in proving public services.   All of these, and more, will feature in our post-conference bulletin to be issued shortly.

Speakers’ presentations are now available on the website.  Conference 2011 photo selection will be available soon.

We will shortly be planning the 2012 conference which will be held on Thursday 27th September –we welcome your feedback and ideas for next year.

Thanks again
Steve Mungavin
Head of CIPFA Northern Ireland

What was it all about?

2011 is an exceptional year for Northern Ireland's public services. Not only will public bodies continue to manage change as effectively as possible, we have a newly-elected Assembly, new ministers in the Executive, a new Programme for Government and, of course, new financial imperatives. 2011 presents Northern Ireland's public services with an opportunity to make a fresh start, take a new approach that builds upon past success, re-prioritise spending to concentrate on things that matter and improve public services for all citizens.

This is the backcloth to the 2011 CIPFA conference in Northern Ireland. We have also taken a fresh approach to our annual conference by offering a new one day event in the heart of Belfast in the iconic Europa Hotel. As usual, the programme is packed full of quality speakers who will provoke debate, elicit exciting new thinking amongst delegates and provide countless practical tips on topical issues affecting public services in Northern Ireland.