Eileen Bell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eileen Bell
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Bell in 2007
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| 2nd Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly | |
| Interim 8 May 2007 – 8 May 2007 |
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| Deputy | Francie Molloy (2007 – 2007) David McClarty (2007 – 2007) John Dallat (2007 – 2007) |
| Preceded by | Herself |
| Succeeded by | William Hay |
| In office 9 May 2006 – 30 January 2007 |
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| Preceded by | John Alderdice |
| Succeeded by | Herself |
| Deputy leader of the Alliance Party | |
| In office 2001–2006 |
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| Leader | Sean Neeson David Ford |
| Preceded by | Seamus Close |
| Succeeded by | Naomi Long |
| Member of the Northern Ireland Assembly for North Down |
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| In office 25 June 1998 – 7 March 2007 |
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| Preceded by | New Creation |
| Succeeded by | Stephen Farry |
| Member of North Down Borough Council |
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| In office 19 May 1993 – 7 June 2001 |
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| Preceded by | James O'Fee |
| Succeeded by | Tony Hill |
| Constituency | Bangor West |
| Member of the Northern Ireland Forum |
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| In office 30 May 1996 – 25 April 1998 |
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| Preceded by | Forum created |
| Succeeded by | Forum dissolved |
| Constituency | Top-up list |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 15 August 1943 Dromara, Northern Ireland |
| Political party | Alliance |
| Alma mater | University of Ulster |
| Occupation | Public servant, politician |
Eileen Bell (born August 15, 1943) is a retired politician from Northern Ireland. She was a member of the Alliance Party. She served as a member of the Northern Ireland Assembly for North Down from 1998 to 2007. She was also a former deputy leader of the Alliance Party.
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Who is Eileen Bell?
Eileen Bell is a well-known figure in Northern Irish politics. She played an important role in the Northern Ireland Assembly. This is like the parliament for Northern Ireland. She also helped lead the Alliance Party. This is a political group that works for peace and fairness.
Early Life and Education
Eileen Bell was born in Dromara, a village in Northern Ireland. She grew up in West Belfast. She went to the Dominican College, Belfast for her schooling. Later, she studied at the University of Ulster.
Before becoming a politician, Eileen had several jobs. She worked in the Northern Ireland Civil Service. These are people who work for the government. She also served as a Welfare Officer. This role involved helping people in need. She worked for an organization called the Community of the Peace People.
Starting in Politics
Eileen Bell began her political journey in 1986. She became the General Secretary of the Alliance Party. This was a key role in running the party.
In 1993, she won an election to the North Down Borough Council. This is a local government group. They make decisions for the North Down area.
She was also chosen for the 1996 Northern Ireland Peace Forum. This group helped discuss peace in Northern Ireland. In 1998, she won a seat in the Northern Ireland Assembly. This meant she became a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA).
A Leader in the Alliance Party
In 2001, Eileen Bell became the Deputy Leader of the Alliance Party. This is a senior position within the party. She helped guide the party's work.
She continued to serve in the Assembly. In the 2003 elections, she kept her seat. This showed that people in North Down trusted her.
In 2005, Eileen decided to step down as Deputy Leader. She also chose not to run in the next Assembly elections.
Becoming Speaker of the Assembly
Eileen Bell took on a very important role in 2006. She became the Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Speaker is like the referee in a debate. They make sure meetings run smoothly. They also make sure everyone follows the rules.
She served as Speaker for a short time in 2006 and 2007. This was during a period when the Assembly was getting back on track.
After Politics: Helping Others
After leaving politics, Eileen Bell continued to help people. She became involved with Autism NI. This is a charity that supports people with autism. She became a vice president and advisor for them.
She worked hard to get an Autism Bill passed in Northern Ireland. This is a special law to help people with autism. She also led a group called Downtown Women's Group. This group helped women get involved in politics.
Special Recognition
In 2008, Eileen Bell received a special honour. She was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). This award recognizes her important work. It shows her dedication to public service.
