The new role will provide critical on-the-ground support in areas such as contract negotiations, legal assistance, and career development. Image credit: Carrie Davenport.
We are proud to announce the appointment of our first-ever dedicated Regional Officer for Northern Ireland, marking a historic moment for the Union and musicians across the region.
This groundbreaking role reflects the MU’s ongoing commitment to supporting musicians throughout the UK and providing specialised support tailored to the needs of the Northern Irish music community.
Ensuring the voice of the Northern Irish music community is heard at every level
The MU are delighted that Charlene Hegarty, known for her stellar work at the Oh Yeah Music Centre previously, will work as part of the Scotland and Northern Ireland team and with a remit to develop the union’s work in Northern Ireland.
Charlene is a well-known face and natural advocate for working musicians by nature and as a passionate member of the local music scene.
Based permanently in Northern Ireland, she will be responsible for engaging with local musicians and a range of industry stakeholders to ensure the voice of the Northern Irish music community is heard at every level.
A landmark appointment for the MU
Charlene’s role will provide critical on-the-ground support in areas such as contract negotiations, legal assistance, and career development.
Musicians in Northern Ireland will now have better access to the Union’s services, which include safeguarding members’ rights, lobbying for improved working conditions, and advocating for increased funding for the arts.
Caroline Sewell, Regional Organiser for Scotland and Northern Ireland at the Musicians’ Union, said: "This is a landmark appointment for the Musicians' Union and demonstrates our unwavering commitment to musicians in every part of the UK.
“Northern Ireland has a vibrant and unique music scene, and having a dedicated officer based there will allow us to better serve our members' needs and advocate on their behalf."
Strengthening our support for the working musicians of Northern Ireland
This new role comes at a pivotal time for the music industry in Northern Ireland, which continues to produce world-class talent across a wide variety of genres.
Charlene Hegarty, newly appointed Regional Officer for Northern Ireland, added:
"I will work tirelessly to make sure the working musicians of Northern Ireland feel the full power of the Musicians Union on their side.
“This is an important progress point for Northern Ireland and the Musicians Union and I believe the musicians of the region can now feel more confident and supported in the important work they do."
The MU’s permanent presence in the region will strengthen local networks, bolster advocacy efforts, and provide greater access to the Union’s national and international resources.
Join us at our panel and mixer event in Belfast
To celebrate Charlene’s role, the MU is holding a special event on the evening of Tuesday 3 December at the Oh Yeah Music Centre in Belfast.
The event will feature a panel discussion for musicians to learn about building capacity for showcase-ready performances, followed by a special live performance and a social mixer.
Visit the event page to find out more details and book your place.
Book your place