THE first unionist politician ever elected to the Irish Seanad and a victims campaigner have been recognised for their work in the New Year Honours List.
Ian Marshall, who was elected to the Republic's upper chamber in 2018, and Kenny Donaldson of the Innocent Victims United group, received the awards.
A former Ulster Farmers' Union president, Mr Marshall said he was "completely blindsided" by the OBE honour.
He lost his seat last year and was singled out by Deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill for his "invaluable contribution" to the Seanad.
Mr Marshall said: "I had no idea I had even been nominated, it came completely out of the blue," he said.
Mr Donaldson grew up in Crossmaglen and has been working with victims and survivors since 2005.
He dedicated his MBE to all the innocent victims of terrorism.
Innocent Victims United is an umbrella body for 23 victims' groups.
