Northern Ireland Recipients Honoured in 2024 King’s Birthday Honours List

The 2024 King’s Birthday Honours list recognized 86 individuals from Northern Ireland, spanning sectors from public service and broadcasting to retail and the arts. The list, published by the [UK Cabinet Office](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/birthday-honours-list-2024), highlights contributions ranging from long-standing police service in Derry-Strabane to the cultural impact of prominent media personalities.

Who Received Major Appointments?

High-profile figures in the Northern Ireland media landscape were among those included in the latest round of honours. BBC presenter [Stephen Watson](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c977p7j1p4lo) was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to broadcasting and the community in Northern Ireland. His recognition follows a decades-long career in sports journalism and regional programming.

The list also reflects a significant breadth of local achievement, with 86 recipients from across the province. This cohort includes figures such as lace tutor [Bernadette Farry](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3ggz1907lzo), who was recognized for her efforts in preserving traditional craft skills, and leadership within the retail sector.

How Are Business and Public Service Represented?

The business sector saw notable representation through the recognition of key figures behind the Spar retail brand. According to the [Belfast Telegraph](https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/kings-birthday-honours-full-list-of-86-ni-recipients-as-tv-presenting-duo-recognised/a1347073315.html), brothers John and Malachy McColgan were among the Northern Ireland businesspeople honored for their contributions to commerce and local economic development.

Public safety also featured prominently in the 2024 list. A police officer serving within the [Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI)](https://www.psni.police.uk/) in the Derry City and Strabane district was awarded the King’s Police Medal (KPM). This award is specifically designated for acts of courage and distinguished service within the police forces of the United Kingdom.

Criteria for Selection

The King’s Birthday Honours are awarded twice annually—in June and at the New Year—to recognize individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service to the UK. The process is managed by the Cabinet Office, which evaluates nominations submitted by members of the public and government departments.

Quick Facts: 2024 Northern Ireland Honours

| Category | Representative Example |
| :— | :— |
| Broadcasting | Stephen Watson (MBE) |
| Public Safety | Derry-Strabane PSNI Officer (King’s Police Medal) |
| Crafts/Culture | Bernadette Farry (Honours List) |
| Business | McColgan brothers (Retail/Spar) |

What Happens Next for Recipients?

Recipients of these honours are typically invited to an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace, Hillsborough Castle, or another royal residence. At these events, members of the Royal Family present the insignia to the recipients. While the announcement marks the formal recognition, the investiture process often continues for several months following the initial publication of the list. The 2024 list remains one of the largest regional distributions of honours in recent years, emphasizing a focus on community-level impact alongside high-profile national service.