Momentum Builds as DBEC Political Advisory Group Meets in Belfast to Shape 2026 Priorities

The Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC) Political Advisory Group held its final quarterly meeting of 2025 on Thursday, 4 December in Belfast City Hall, hosted by the Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Paul Doherty.

Welcoming delegates, the Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast said:

“This year has seen momentum really build along the Corridor, that was palpable at the inaugural DBEC Summit, hosted at the ICC Belfast. The Summit helped elevate the Corridor’s profile and strengthened its position as a key driver of economic and social growth in the region. Building on that platform is now our focus as we move towards and into 2026.

“Right along the Corridor, we face many of the same challenges, but we also share significant opportunities.  Some of these challenges and opportunities are wider in scope and scale than what we, as DBEC councils, can address alone. They will require major strategic investment and support from government and industry across both jurisdictions. However, there is undoubtedly strength in numbers, and I believe that this partnership’s collective strength has created a  robust, effective focal point for engagement and advocacy on those critical conversations.” 

Members also acknowledged the formation and first meeting of the new Industry Advisory Panel, recognising it as an important mechanism for collaboration and shared purpose across the Corridor.

Looking ahead to 2026, the group discussed opportunities to promote the Economic Corridor further both domestically and internationally.

The team from Alice Public Relations, recently appointed as DBEC’s new Communications and Engagement Partner, presented their recommendations for the year ahead and invited member feedback on plans to champion the Corridor and empower stakeholders to elevate the region’s profile.

Reflecting on his new role as one of two new Co-Chairs of the Political Advisory Group, Councillor Ryan Carlin said:

“I’m keen to raise awareness of DBEC’s work and our partnership of eight cross-border councils and two universities. Our new Communications and Engagement Partner will help strengthen and sharpen how we communicate with our key audiences. There is a shared recognition that working together strengthens our collective position and delivers better outcomes for the region.”

Belfast City Council is one of eight local authorities from either side of the Border which form the DBEC Partnership,  a cross-border collaboration of eight local authorities—Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon; Belfast City; Newry, Mourne and Down District Council; Fingal; Lisburn and Castlereagh; Louth; Meath —alongside Dublin City University and Ulster University. Together, they work to strengthen economic resilience and drive long-term regional prosperity along the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor.

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