NICVA.org, 24 July 2012
By Fiona Veitch

'Sir Ken' has been honorary president of NICVA since 2001, after having supported the work of the organisation for many years.

Speaking to NICVA, he said:

"I am delighted to have been honoured by HM the Queen in her Birthday Honours list. I am really pleased that while part of the citation was recognition for my professional contribution to the Arts, it also recognised my commitment to the community in Northern Ireland. In my own small way I have tried to support all that was good in Northern Ireland, all that was progressive.

I've always been proud to be honorary President of NICVA supporting all the organisations in the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland that do so much to improve the lives of everyone.

There is no one more proud of the community spirit that exists back home than me. I hope to be back as soon as possible; to all at NICVA and to the vast range of member organisations can I just say, keep up the good work, you are what makes the difference".

The Oscar nominated actor has demonstrated his support for NICVA many times, making personal visits to boost fundraising, and promoting the work of the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland.

Speaking to the BBC about his honour, Branagh said "I feel very humble about it, I feel elated about it."

Seamus McAleavey, Chief Executive of NICVA, commented "We are delighted that Kenneth has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the voluntary and community sector in Northern Ireland via this Knighthood. He has been a fantastic supporter of NICVA for many years, and our Honorary President for over a decade. From attending and endorsing our events and activities through to offering new films for charity premiers, he has worked hard to support the sector, including ourselves. All the staff at NICVA join me in congratulating him on this fantastic achievement.”