Baroness is guest speaker at Downpatrick WI meeting

Baroness is guest speaker at Downpatrick WI meeting

26 February 2025

THE February meeting of Downpatrick Women’s Institute was held recently, the January meeting having been postponed owing to bad weather.

The acting president was Margaret Orr, who explained that she stepping in due to the president, Edwina Marr, being in hospital. The members extended their best wishes to Mrs Marr.

Mrs Orr, on behalf of the committee, also sympathised with anyone who was ill or had relatives who had passed away as there had been many funerals during December and January. 

She welcomed the guest speaker, Baroness Margaret Ritchie of Downpatrick, and visitors from from Spa, Seaforde, Ballynahinch and Drum Institutes.

Baroness Ritchie gave a synopsis of her political life. She was the MP for South Down from 2010 to 2017, a member of the NI Assembly from 2003 to 2012.

She was Minister for Social Development at Stormont from 2007-2010 after serving 24 years as a councillor on Down District Council. During this time, she worked as a parliamentary advisor and assistant to the late Mr Eddie McGrady, her predecessor as South Down MP. She was made a member of the House of Lords in 2019

Baroness Ritchie spoke about her interest in politics and her progression from councillor to MLA, MP and member of the House of Lords. She then engaged in an interesting question and answer session with the ladies and revealed that she relaxed by walking and reading. She was thanked by Renee for sharing her experiences with the members and visitors.

The beautiful supper was provided by Karen Walker, Pat Mulhall and Sharon McVeigh.

Baroness Ritchie, assisted by the secretary, Mary Magee, judged the competition for ‘An Unusual Invitation’. The winner was Maud Bailie and the runner-up was Margaret Orr. The birthday girl was Renee and the ballot winner was Patricia Gilchrist.

The members were reminded of upcoming events, including the Downpatrick WI quiz on Friday, March 21. 

The next meeting will take place in Downpatrick Presbyterian Church Hall on Wednesday, March 19. New members will be welcome.