Institute Rebrand

All these committees work extremely hard to provide a comprehensive membership proposition to individuals within the local insurance and financial services arena.

In Northern Ireland exactly the same premises hold and the Belfast Insurance Institute has, for over 100 years catered for the needs of its members across the province.

It is precisely because of the extent of the institute’s activities and the geographical spread of its members that, there has been a growing recognition in recent times, that perhaps the designation using ‘Belfast’ could be somewhat of a misnomer.

John Laverty, former President first raised general awareness of the issue at the annual dinner in January 2016 where he spoke eloquently about the benefits of changing the name of the institute from the Belfast Insurance Institute to the Insurance Institute of Northern Ireland. The proposed new name he suggested would be more reflective of the large spread of members based across the length and breadth of Northern Ireland. He commented:

“As a council we feel a rebrand will allow us to be more inclusive of our wider membership outside of Belfast and further engage with additional employers to ensure the long term future of our institute. The institute is already providing a membership proposition across Northern Ireland with events held in Derry/Londonderry and Newry – our name now needs to reflect our offering.”

He urged members to express their views and a vote on the motion was scheduled to take place at the AGM which was held on 21 April. The motion was subsequently passed and the new name adopted.

President Brendan Mooney Dip CII in his opening address, spoke at the AGM explaining that he applauded the new designation as it represented a much more inclusive institution, reflective of the membership base and the reach of all activities. Going forward into the remainder of 2016 then and for the duration of his term as President he explained that he intended to use the initials of the IINI as an acronym for one of the key themes with which he intends to underpin his role – Involve, Invest, Network and Inspire.

A historical day, a historical debate and a decision which breaks a centuries old tradition, however one which doubtlessly will help lead the institute into a more progressive and inclusive future.