Life expectancy in Northern Ireland continues to increase and it is expected that mortality due to heart disease, stroke and some cancers will continue to fall. The infant mortality rate, once higher is similar to that of the other UK and European countries. However, in common with neighboring countries, Northern Ireland has low levels of physical activity and poor nutrition especially among poorer people; in addition, there are growing levels of obesity and poor dental health. Northern Ireland has more socioeconomic deprivation, a younger and growing population and still suffers from the effect of civil disturbances. This article explores the prospects and progress in public health and health promotion research in Northern Ireland.