Givan congratulates New Year Honours recipients from the education sector

Date published: 30 December 2025

The Minister paid tribute to those who have been acknowledged as having gone above and beyond for our children and young people.

Paul Givan said: 

“I extend my congratulations to those from the education sector recognised in this year’s Honours list.

“Since becoming Education Minister, I have seen first-hand the incredible dedication of those who work in education and the wider community to give every child the best possible start in life. The passion and commitment they show is truly inspiring and these honours are fitting tribute to their dedication and hard work.

“I hope all those recognised take great pride in these richly deserved honours.”

Among those honoured is the Department of Education’s Interim Permanent Secretary, Ronnie Armour who received a CBE for his valuable contribution to the education sector and public service.

The Minister continued: 

“I congratulate Ronnie on receiving a CBE in the 2026 New Year Honours. This richly deserved honour recognises a distinguished career spanning decades of public service. Before becoming Education Minister, I worked with Ronnie when he was Director of the Northern Ireland Prison Service and I was Chair of the Justice Committee.

“His wealth of experience, professionalism and dedication have been invaluable to both roles, and I am pleased to see his long-standing commitment to public service recognised in this way.”