The Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) supported the 14th meeting of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR)-UK Contact Group, held in Belfast on 19 and 20 October 2026.
The group brings together local and regional representatives from the European Union and the United Kingdom to maintain dialogue following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.
In Belfast, members considered the state of EU-UK relations and the importance of local and regional perspectives. They also discussed shared challenges and opportunities, including cross-border collaboration in higher education and wider cooperation across these islands and Europe.
Proceedings began at Parliament Buildings, Stormont, on 19 October. The programme continued on 20 October with a study visit to Black Mountain Shared Space, where delegates explored the impact of EU PEACE programmes and community-led collaboration. NILGA also hosted members at Belfast City Hall, providing a further opportunity to strengthen relationships between local and regional representatives.
Alderman Hazel Legge, President of NILGA, said:
“NILGA was delighted to support the CoR-UK Contact Group’s visit to Belfast. The meeting provided an important opportunity to demonstrate the contribution that local government makes to constructive EU-UK relations, cross-border cooperation and stronger communities. Northern Ireland’s councils understand the practical value of partnership, and we were pleased to welcome delegates and show first-hand the positive impact of collaborative programmes in our communities.”
Karl Vanlouwe, Chair of the CoR–UK Contact Group, said:
“Whether it’s Belfast or Brussels, Nations, Regions and Local Government need to cooperate in areas which impact citizens. We welcome the current positive engagement between the UK and EU and signal that devolved governments on all levels need to be fully involved.”
Local government associations from across the UK also play an important representative role at European level. Their inclusive reach across urban, rural, coastal and border communities makes them strong partners in building practical cooperation and ensuring that diverse local perspectives inform EU-UK engagement.
NILGA welcomed the opportunity to contribute to discussions that placed local and regional voices at the heart of future cooperation between the UK and the European Union.
ENDS
