Put Belfast First, Not Last in Line

I think the idea of prioritizing local needs over global ambitions is sound, but it needs to be applied with a bit more nuance, especially in a place like Northern Ireland where we're often forgotten until it's too late. We've got our own unique set of problems, from segregated education to underfunded maternity services, that need attention before we start trying to solve the world's problems.

For me, it's not just about throwing money at the NHS, although that's part of it - it's about recognizing the value of community-led healthcare, like the midwifery services I work in, and giving us the support we need to thrive. That means fewer bureaucratic hurdles and more focus on patient-centered care. And when it comes to global influence, let's be real - for a city like Belfast, that means working with our neighbors in the Republic, not just flying off to conferences in London or Brussels.