The Northern Ireland Parliament Buildings, commonly called Stormont are situated on an elevated site in the suburbs of East Belfast. Designed by Sir Arthur Thornley, this neo-classical building is set on a plinth of Mourne granite and is finished in Portland Stone. The then Prince of Wales officially opened it in November 1932. The magnificent buildings, can be seen for many miles around. Access to the Parliament Buildings is restricted to the Great Hall.
Contact a Minister
If you wish to contact a Minister on a Departmental matter you should contact the relevant Department using the links found on the Executive's website: http://www.northernireland.gov.uk/index/gov.htm
Parliament Buildings is open to the public between 9.00am and 4.00pm Monday to Friday. Members of the public can watch Plenary Sittings from the Public Gallery on Mondays from 12 noon and Tuesdays from 10.30am and are able to attend Committee meetings held in public session.
Tours of Parliament Buildings
Guided tours of Parliament Buildings are available on weekdays from 10.00am to 4.00pm for invited guests of Members or Officers of the Northern Ireland Assembly.
With the exception of Bank Holidays and Christmas Recess, tours may also take place from 4.00pm to 9.00pm, Monday to Thursday and on Saturday from 10.00am to 9.00pm provided they are accompanied by hospitality.
Telephone: +44 (0) 28 9052 1362
Telephone: +44 (0) 28 9052 1948
Telephone: +44 (0) 28 9052 1975
or by emailing the Events Co ordinantion Office at eventsoffice@niassembly.gov.uk
Educational Visits to Parliament Buildings
Educational Visits to Parliament Buildings are available Monday to Friday for schools and other groups wanting to learn about the Northern Ireland Assembly. An educational visit involves a presentation by an Education Officer and a tour of Parliament Buildings. It may also include one or more of the following:
- an activity session, eg mock election;
- a Q & A session with MLAs;
- a talk by Assembly staff, eg a Committee Clerk.
For further information, or to book an educational visit, please contact the Education Service, by telephone, on 90521183 or 90418332, or by email at education.service@niassembly.gov.uk. Further information about educational visits is also available on the Education Website at http://education.niassembly.gov.uk.