Editorial: The King’s New Year honours highlight what’s good about Northern Ireland

​The King’s New Year’s Honours are an annual reminder of how much talent there is here - and how much the unsung heroes in our communities contribute to making Northern Ireland the country it is.

​Throughout the United Kingdom, people from the very top of government, to those who have played a role in bettering the lives of everyone in their local communities, have been honoured today.

Many, such as our local sports stars, have reached the top of their game – but aren’t always compensated in the way they would be in other sports, or in the men’s equivalent. Therefore the honours bestowed today on stars like Olympian Hannah Scott, Paralympian Claire Taggart and the Northern Ireland footballing legend Marissa Callaghan are a deserved recognition of the tremendous achievements they have made – and the inspirational message they send to our young people, girls in particular.

Whatever about the faults some see in it, the honours system in this country recognises the hard work and dedication of those who have contributed to this society in every walk of life.

From people like Eric Brown, a courageous champion of victims of the Troubles, to foster carer Gerard Gribbon, who has also dedicated his life the numerous charitable ventures. Both men have become Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

And there are many more like them throughout the country.

There is also deserved recognition for the achievements of those who have excelled in their industry or profession – the very backbone of our economy and public services.

There are far too many to mention here, but they are all deserved, and a fitting recognition of the people who have made NI a better place for us all.