The Northern Ireland Blue Lights Awards took place on 3 March 2026 at the Crowne Plaza in Belfast. Pamela Ballantine MBE hosted the event. Performances came from the Uplifted Gospel Choir under Kathy McCaughy and comedian Andrew Ryan.

First Minister Michelle O’Neill sent a video message. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Health Minister Mike Nesbitt spoke to attendees. Justice Minister Naomi Long also delivered a video message. Speakers recognised the commitment and fortitude of emergency service personnel in operational and support roles.

Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) received the Bravery and Courage Award, given to Darren Leonard and Patrick Donaghy from Altnagelvin Station. Matthew Smith from human resources and organisational development earned the Overcoming Adversity Award. The NIAS Communications Team won Support Staff of the Year.

NIAS Chief Executive Maxine Paterson accepted a Special Recognition Award on behalf of JESIP for coordination across agencies during Storm Eowyn. The Integrated Care Hub Team and Integrated Clinical Hub Mental Health Team received highly commended mentions in Team of the Year. NIAS personnel shared a highly commended recognition in Innovation and Operational Excellence with South Eastern Trust colleagues.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service won Blue Light Emergency Service of the Year. Blue light services in Northern Ireland cover ambulance, fire and rescue, and police responses to emergencies.