Last Wednesday, in what was my last act as Regional Chairman, I attended with friends and colleagues a Conservative Future reception hosted by Prime Minister David Cameron at No. 10, Downing Street. The occasion marked the achievements and the long way Northern Ireland Conservative Future has come over the past two and a half years since its establishment, but more importantly the beginning of a new chapter for the challenges ahead.
When I was elected in February 2011, Conservative Future was without organisation in Northern Ireland, and our task of rebuilding was a daunting one. In the time since, with the efforts of many dedicated members and our Regional Executive, we have grown into a dynamic youth movement at the heart of both youth politics locally, and our national organisation throughout the United Kingdom.
It also has been a great privilege to to serve as the first person from Northern Ireland on the Conservative Future National Executive, having been elected by fellow Regional Chairmen as Regional College Chairman in December 2011. Northern Ireland's representation on the national stage was further enhanced last January, when Conal O'Hare was appointed to the national Strategy Team as Universities and NUS Officer.
Our cause and ambition as a youth movement is of course an indefatigable project. I have every confidence in the capabilities and determination of my successor as Regional Chairman, Stephen Goss, who takes over the role this Monday. I wish him, and the Regional Executive my best in further building on those achievements that have been made, and the many still to come.
Northern Ireland Conservative Future has also been privileged to enjoy the support of a handful of dedicated members who have worked tirelessly over the past couple of years on the Regional Executive. With that I would like to thank, Simon Warren, Conal O'Hare, Alex Huston, Jamie Pow, Rebecca Sheldon, Eimhear Macfarlane, David Symington, and Dean Russell for everything they have done for the organisation.
I would also like to thank all of those others who have offered their steadfast support during my tenure as Regional Chairman, especially that of Owen Polley, Paul Leeman, Terry Dick, Roger Gilpin, Ben Howlett, and NI Conservatives Chairman, Irwin Armstrong.
It is my unwavering belief that the pragmatic, centre-right policies of the NI Conservatives stand as the only alternative for the many young people of Northern Ireland who aspire to work hard and get ahead, and I look forward to assisting the party in whatever capacity I can in the future.
Thank you, and farewell.
Matthew