Northern Ireland Assembly, 12 May 2025

331 contributions from 60 members. The official report.

Assembly Business

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Before we start proceedings, I advise Members that the Speaker is unwell and will not be in the Chamber today. I am sure that we all wish him a speedy recovery.

Matters of the Day

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Pat Sheehan has been given leave to make a statement under Standing Order 24.

Pat Sheehan (Sinn Féin, Belfast West)

Go raibh maith agat, a Phríomh-Leas-Cheann Comhairle.

[Translation: Thank you, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker.]

I will make a statement on the worsening situation in Gaza. Despite Israel's publicly declared strategy of starving the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip and the plans to increase the attacks on Gaza even further and displace the population, the US, British, French and German Governments continue to pander to the murderous Israeli regime. We know that 20,000 children have been killed and tens of thousands of other Palestinians are dead, with many of the bodies still buried underneath the rubble, and that schools, hospitals, universities, mosques, churches and United Nations food depots have all been destroyed. Now, the Israelis have decided to use starvation as a weapon of war against an already malnourished population.

More than two months have elapsed without a single aid truck entering Gaza. Children are dying of hunger. Hospitals have no medicines, anaesthetics or painkillers. The blockade is not just a violation of international law; it is an instrument of genocide as defined by the UN Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide. Dr Mike Ryan, the Irish executive director of the World Health Organization's health emergencies programme, called it what it is:

"We are breaking the bodies and minds of the children of Gaza. We are starving the children of Gaza ... It is an abomination".

Professor Avi Shlaim, the renowned Jewish Israeli academic said this to those who justify Israel's action by saying that Israel has a right to self-defence:

"I would say to the Israeli apologists that, under international law, Israel has one right: to end the occupation and get out. Israel doesn’t have the right to self-defense as defined in Article 51 of the UN Charter. Israel is the occupying power in Gaza under international law."

It is time to end the occupation, the genocide and the starvation of poor, innocent, defenceless children. It is time for all that to end now.

Paul Frew (DUP, North Antrim)

I am horrified at the scenes in what is a war-torn land in Israel and the Gaza Strip, and I worry about the activities there. There are clear rules of engagement in war. There are clear rules in the Geneva convention, and there are clear rules in international law. The laws of a state should also be adhered to. I hope that all lapses from the Geneva convention and international law are investigated thoroughly to ascertain whether there have been any breaches.

When it comes to the war, the people who suffer are the Israelis and the Palestinians. We would all like to see the end of the war. The Palestinian people have suffered not only because of the war in their area and their land; the Palestinian people have suffered for so long at the hands and under the burden of terrorism in the form and guise of Hamas. We would all like to see the day, I am sure, when the Palestinian people are free from terrorism and war. My heart goes out to all who have suffered in the war. I hope that the war ends soon and that people can go back to what remains of their lives after the losses that have occurred. I pray that we will see peace in that ancient land sooner rather than later.

Stewart Dickson (Alliance, East Antrim)

The situation in Gaza is getting worse every day. Tens of thousands of people have been killed; neighbourhoods have been destroyed; and over a million people have been displaced without access to food, water or medical care. That is an obscenity.

My party has consistently supported the recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state, including in our most recent general election manifesto, in which we stated that a two-state solution was the only way to deliver lasting peace in the region. Since the outbreak of violence in October 2023, we have repeatedly condemned the war crimes that are being committed by Israel and Hamas. The targeting of civilians and the collective punishment of entire populations are wrong, and the taking of hostages is equally unacceptable. Our party has taken action. We have written to the Prime Minister and the Foreign Secretary to call for an immediate suspension of all arms export licences to Israel and a renewed commitment by the UK Government to a two-state solution. We have called for accountability through the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court for all breaches of international law, no matter who committed them. In the Assembly, we have supported a motion calling for the immediate recognition of the state of Palestine, the release of hostages and an immediate ceasefire.

The international community, including the United Kingdom Government, must do more to end the illegal occupation of Gaza, halt the persecution of Palestinians in Israel and the occupied territories and demand a negotiated peace. The conflict will not be resolved by bombs or barricades; it will be resolved only through political courage, diplomacy and an unwavering commitment to human rights and international law. Ending arms sales, securing a permanent ceasefire and renewing momentum towards a two-state solution are the only moral imperatives and the only route to peace.

International aid agencies such as Christian Aid have said that, as a priority, we must protect, promote and defend the human rights of Palestinians in the Middle East. We must strengthen the resilience of individuals, communities and institutions so that they can respond when faced with threats to lives, land and livelihoods. Finally, we must deliver humanitarian responses that are accountable and impartial and strengthen local communities. Humanitarian aid must be allowed into the Gaza Strip.

Robbie Butler (UUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for tabling the Matter of the Day, because it is of deep consequence, and it should be of deep consequence to every one of us.

When we think back to the actions of the past couple of years in the Middle East, particularly in Israel and Palestine, if you are not moved, angered, disappointed and, at times, horrified, you have a heart of stone. It is a deeply complex region, but what is not complex is humanity. What is not complicated is sanctity of life. What is not up for debate is the fact that too many have suffered.

Often, in our media and sometimes politically in the Chamber, we are accused of taking sides and of trying to pit one side against the other: I do not think that that has been the case, when we look at the conflict that is there. What is going on at the moment, however, which is the failure of aid to reach those innocent hundreds and thousands, is simply unacceptable. I think particularly of the children whom we read about and whose faces we have seen, who have been so deeply affected. They have either lost their life or their home and perhaps their future. That does not bode well for the future.

All those in that region who have acted irresponsibly have set themselves up for an eternal conflict, but that does not need to be the case. I do not mean this in a facetious sense, but, when we think about our conflict here, we find that it was never going to be resolved by anything but talking — sitting down in a room and working out differences with a commitment to strictly peaceful means going forward. We should send a message from the Chamber that the only route to lasting peace is to talk, end all hostilities and respond with the return of all hostages and those on both sides of the conflict who have been held away from their home for far too long.

In the meantime, however, we need to see the restoration of power, clean water, food and medicines to those who are suffering and the innocent people who are paying the price for acts of terror. Let us hope that those who are listening and who have the ear of those in power in the Middle East can act so that we can see real change as quickly as possible.

Cara Hunter (Social Democratic and Labour Party, East Londonderry)

I welcome the opportunity to speak again on the ongoing atrocities in Gaza, which I and my party find truly unforgivable. Just yesterday, I watched a video online of children starving in Gaza, wishing for food. Children have been blown up or murdered by Israeli bombs, and I ask myself and the Chamber this: what kind of world are we living in? Speaking up against those atrocities goes beyond faith or different backgrounds and beliefs. As politicians, advocates and people, we have a collective duty to call out that collective punishment, particularly through starvation, as absolutely unacceptable and unforgivable.

This is an issue of humanity and the sanctity of human life. We have seen total cowardice from the previous and current US and UK Governments. Having had the power to bring an end to the horror, they have been cowards and have been quiet, and I find that utterly shameful. Government representatives can use their voice for change, but they have been more concerned about their own career progression than the end of the slaughter of innocent children in Gaza.

The Palestinian people have suffered massive civilian casualties and displacement since October 2023. Over 52,000 Palestinians have been killed, with women and innocent children comprising the majority of those casualties. The Israeli military campaign has led to the displacement of approximately 90% of Gaza's 2·3 million residents, forcing them into overcrowded shelters or makeshift camps. In particular, we see that, at the moment, severe hunger and imminent famine are ongoing due to the Israeli blockade, which has been in place for over 10 weeks. That has halted the entry of essential supplies, pushing Gaza towards near famine. Nearly 477,000 Palestinians are experiencing catastrophic hunger levels, and many communal kitchens have shut down due to a lack of available aid. There have been attacks on healthcare workers and aid workers that are absolutely unforgivable.

There have been many global calls for a ceasefire, and the House has supported that. International leaders and organisations are urging an immediate ceasefire and an end to the ongoing violence. In particular, our new Pope has asked for compassion and aid delivery. Each of us, in the House and outside it, should reflect on what we can do and say at this point in history to speak up against genocide, as referred to by the UN convention. I urge every one of us in the House with a voice to speak up to condemn those horrific actions and to put an end to what is the biggest atrocity of our time.

Timothy Gaston (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

We all share the deep sympathy for the innocent people of Gaza — men, women and children caught in the midst of a terrible conflict not of their choosing. However, it is hard to take seriously the hand-wringing of the Member for West Belfast when, in 1978, he took part in the bombing of a cash and carry, an act that showed no regard for innocent life. There were few concerns for civilians that day.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Mr Gaston, this is about Palestine.

Timothy Gaston (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

Yes, indeed.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Can you please return to the topic of the Matter of the Day?

Timothy Gaston (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

Yes. It is worth remembering that, while the Member now speaks about protecting life, he once risked taking it.

I also want to comment on the recent calls from RTÉ to have Israel banned from this year's Eurovision Song Contest. Those calls are not only misguided; they are morally confused. The Israeli contestant whom they seek to silence is a survivor of the Hamas massacre at the music festival on 7 October — a brutal act of terror and the largest mass killing of Jews since the Holocaust. Were it not for that atrocity, there would be no war in Gaza today, yet, in typical Sinn Féin fashion, it cries foul over Israel while backing the use of council land for a Kneecap concert, a group that publicly declared support for Hamas —

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Mr Gaston —.

Timothy Gaston (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

— just as Sinn Féin long supported the IRA —

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Mr Gaston.

Timothy Gaston (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

— and its campaign of violence.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Mr Gaston, take your seat, OK?

I will move on to the next Matter of the Day.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Ciara Ferguson has made a request to make this statement, which fulfils the criteria set out in Standing Order 24. I remind Members who wish to be called that they should rise in their place and continue to do so. All Members will have up to three minutes to speak on the subject. I remind Members that interventions are not permitted and that I will not take any points of order on this or any other matter until the item of business is finished.

Ciara Ferguson (Sinn Féin, Foyle)

I express our deepest sympathy across the Assembly with the community of Buncrana and the families and school friends from Scoil Mhuire and Crana College of 16-year-old Emmanuel Familola and 18-year-old Matt Sibanda, who tragically lost their lives on Saturday afternoon after getting into difficulty in the water. Matt and Emmanuel were understood to be playing football on Saturday when they went into the sea after the ball. The area is also a popular swimming spot, but, sadly, we know that the waters can change dramatically and quickly, as the Swilly has a big tidal range and the water behaves differently in different parts.

The devastating loss of those two young men, who had their whole lives ahead of them, cannot quite be placed into words. I know that, across the Assembly, we will want to express our gratitude to the individuals and organisations who contributed to a large-scale search-and-rescue operation throughout Saturday. We also acknowledge the medical professionals who intervened and the hundreds who gathered to pray, both at the pier and again at yesterday's vigil at St Mary's Oratory in Buncrana. Emmanuel and Matt have been described as deeply respected and valued members of their school communities and as two men with warm and kind personalities and gentle natures. Emmanuel had just completed his work experience, as part of his transition year, in the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin, and Matt was due to begin his Leaving Certificate next month.

As the next May bank holiday approaches and as we enter another period of good weather across Ireland, we need to make water safety part of our conversations with family and friends alike. A focus needs to be put on Water Safety Week, which is approaching, so that everyone, young and old, is aware of the hidden dangers posed by the water. Across Ireland and particularly in Donegal, which alone boasts over 100 beautiful beaches, we are blessed with natural beauty, but we need to take advice from the RNLI and others about respecting the water and remaining vigilant at all times.

I send our thoughts and prayers to the Familola and Sibanda families. We know that the people of Buncrana, Inishowen and Donegal will continue to rally around the two families, school friends, response teams and all those affected by the devastating tragedy.

Gary Middleton (DUP, Foyle)

On behalf of the DUP, I send our condolences to the Familola and Sibanda families. What happened over the weekend was a very sad tragedy, with two young lives taken far too soon. Many of us will have heard the tributes being paid from right across the community, not least from the RNLI representative who clearly articulated what happened over the weekend, the way in which the emergency services responded and how the families and the local community joined together to pray for Emmanuel and Matt and, indeed, for the other young person, who managed to get out of the water.

Sadly, such tragedies are not unique. We have seen them, unfortunately, within our constituencies as well. It is a stark reminder of the dangers that open water can pose. Whilst we take great pride in our open waters and the beauty that they provide, sadly, they can also take lives. We need to ensure that people are aware of the dangers that open waters can pose to individuals, such as the cold shock of the water, hidden currents or unexpected depths. This is a very sad reminder. Again, the thoughts and prayers of our party are with those individuals' families who, sadly, will have to deal with the grief in the time ahead.

Andrew McMurray (Alliance, South Down)

I thank the Member for bringing this tragic subject to the House. On behalf of Alliance, I associate with the comments previously made and extend my deepest sympathy to the families of Matt Sibanda and Emmanuel Familola. It was an absolute tragedy and is difficult to process. I was listening to the news in the car on my way here this morning, and it was incredibly difficult. Listening to the tributes from the schools of the two boys — Scoil Mhuire and Crana College — about the positivity that they had in their time in the Buncrana community was quite uplifting. Similarly, the services that were held showed incredible community support. I am not from Buncrana, but I know it from holidaying there, and that community spirit was quite something to behold.

I want to give thanks to the rescue and recovery efforts of the RNLI, the coastguard and the entire Buncrana community. Listening to the efforts that were put in by the RNLI and the community, as described by Mr Joyce, was incredibly moving. Anybody who takes part knows the physical, emotional and positive attributes that come with outdoor swimming, but the danger of entering the water must not be underestimated. It is incumbent on us to educate our families, our loved ones and the wider community, where we can, on the dangers of entering the water.

Robbie Butler (UUP, Lagan Valley)

On behalf of the Ulster Unionist Party, I echo all the words of sympathy and support that have been offered in the Chamber, and I thank the Member for tabling this very important matter for discussion this morning. When we look at the faces of those two young boys, we cannot help but associate them with our own family members. If you are blessed enough to have a son or daughter of a similar age, as a parent, quite often, you transpose that tragedy or incident and ask, "How would I cope?". I do not know how I would cope. It is incredibly sad to see two young lives so needlessly lost in something that we, sadly, speak about far too often in this country.

What has perhaps been of some heart and hope to the families is the response on both sides of the border to the community in Buncrana. People have rallied around that community and shown all manner of unequivocal support, including through prayer and in person. They have rallied around the community to help in whatever way they can. Help has come from Ms Ferguson's constituency, including from the emergency services.

As some Members may know, the ripple effect of the deaths will extend further than to the families who have been affected. Those who were at the beach or in its vicinity at the time will have seen things that they will never forget. The ripple effect will extend to those who responded in the hope of saving life, because, when people go out to respond, they hope to make an intervention. Unfortunately, the response sometimes becomes a recovery operation, and it is so tragic to see two young lives lost in such a way.

As other Members have done, I issue a warning about our coastal waters and particularly our inland waters. We have lots of quarries, where, unfortunately, young people congregate and decide to go for a cold dip. Those waters are often much colder and pose more hidden dangers than even the sea does. We need to get to grips with the advice that we issue each year, especially when temperatures rise and the temptation for people is to get into the water. The water is indeed dangerous. I finish by offering my sincere thoughts and condolences to, and prayers on behalf of, the families of the two young boys who lost their life.

Daniel McCrossan (Social Democratic and Labour Party, West Tyrone)

On Saturday, as the sun shone brightly and temperatures soared, many of us — young and old, families and friends — gathered at beaches and various resorts across the island of Ireland to enjoy weather that we have not been able to enjoy for some years. With that, at various times over the years, has unfortunately come tragedy, not just in open water but in quarries and other places. It was simple day out for three friends — three young lads — who were playing football near the shoreline when their ball went into the water. In an attempt to retrieve it, they entered the sea. Unfortunately, they encountered difficulties owing to the strong currents. Sadly, as a result of a simple get-together with friends while enjoying the sun, two lives were lost: Emmanuel Familola, 16 years of age and originally from Nigeria; and Matt Sibanda, 18 years of age and originally from Zimbabwe. Luckily, if that is even a word that we can use in the context, there was not a third victim. Today, our thoughts are with the young lad who is recovering in hospital. From the details that I have heard, he is lucky to be alive.

It is so important that we send a very clear message that open water is not safe. Please act with great care. We ask parents of children and young people, who will be out enjoying the weather in the week ahead, to alert them to the very real dangers. Unfortunately, I have known numerous people from my constituency — my age, younger and older — who have died in the past number of years as a result of entering various waterways in West Tyrone. The tragedy is incomprehensible. When the news came through on Saturday after 4.00 pm, our hearts were in Donegal, and our thoughts and prayers were with the three young lads, their families and the entire community. What happened affects us all, because, at any time in life, such a tragedy could come to our own door. We therefore need to be conscious at all times of how easily something can go wrong.

It is important to thank those involved in the multi-agency response, including the Irish Coast Guard, RNLI lifeboats, the Rescue 118 helicopter from Sligo and local gardaí and ambulance services, and to thank the community and everybody else who rallied around the families to support them at what is a devastating time.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

That ends Matters of the Day. Members, please take your ease for a moment before we begin Members' statements.

(Mr Deputy Speaker [Mr Blair] in the Chair)

Members' Statements

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

Before calling Members to make statements, I remind them that Standing Order 24A(6) states that a statement must not:

"(b) relate to a matter scheduled for debate in the Assembly; (c) address a question that has already been decided by the Assembly within the previous 6 months; or (d) be used to impugn or to attack another member."

Also:

"A statement must relate to a topical matter of public interest".

Members should not use their three minutes to speak about as many topics as they can fit into that time. The statement should relate to one topic only. Any Member who is not compliant with those provisions may be asked to resume their seat. If that is clear, we will continue.

If a Member wishes to be called to make a statement, they should indicate that by rising in their place. Members who are called will have three minutes in which to make their statements. Interventions are not permitted, and I will not take any points of order on this or any other matter until the item of business is finished.

Philip McGuigan (Sinn Féin, North Antrim)

I want to promote a single topic but two events that are coming soon in my constituency of North Antrim. First, I congratulate Ballycastle Comhaltas for organising and bringing the Antrim fleadh to Ballycastle. That will run for a week, from next Monday, 19 May, until the following Sunday, 25 May. I have no doubt that the fleadh will attract huge numbers of people from across North Antrim, County Antrim and beyond. I am very much looking forward to being in Ballycastle during the week, seeing and hearing an amazing line-up of talent and celebrating North Antrim's rich heritage of culture, Irish music, language and dance at free events at numerous venues throughout Ballycastle. Ádh mór oraibh uilig.

[Translation: Good luck to you all.]

To complement the fleadh, there is the annual Rathlin Sound Festival, which runs from 23 May to 1 June. The festival, which takes place around the famous Rathlin Sound body of water, connects Rathlin Island to the shores of Ballycastle and brings to life the people, culture and heritage of the area. As anyone who has been to the festival will know, many vessels visit Ballycastle and Rathlin harbours throughout the festival period. Many people from across Ireland will travel to Ballycastle and Rathlin to enjoy the various arts, music, storytelling, artisan markets, food and drink that will be on offer.

There are an exciting few weeks ahead for Ballycastle and Rathlin. The fleadh and the festival will be welcomed and supported by locals, and they will create a welcome boost for local businesses and economy. I hope that the current good weather continues well into June. Regardless, I have no doubt that Ballycastle and Rathlin will be buzzing and bustling with excitement, colour and much joy over the next couple of weeks. I wish both events and their organisers the very best of luck and success.

Joanne Bunting (DUP, Belfast East)

I rise in solidarity with the McCartney family, following yet another glorification event by Sinn Féin and attempt by the party to rewrite history. As a member of the Policing Board, I have met the McCartney family. I have read the transcript of the trial in the aftermath of Mr McCartney's murder, and I have read their book. Their brother's murder was brutal and merciless. The omertà that followed was shocking. Instead of being shown support and sympathy at a time of bereavement, that family could no longer reside in the area in which they lived. The whole situation was repugnant and eerily similar to that in the murder of Ian Ogle in my constituency, which was also all because of an accusation of looking at somebody the wrong way.

The details of Mr McCartney's murder in the court transcripts are brutal and harrowing. His sisters' and partner's pain and anguish are understandable and deeply moving. No family should have to endure the added trauma of seeing the individual whom they believe ordered their loved one's murder being publicly honoured.

Sinn Féin seems to be wilfully deaf and blind to the impact on victims of the Provisional IRA of its weekly glorification roadshows. It is disgraceful and insensitive, though no surprise. Once more, it has reverted to its old, faithful routine of "Do as we say and not as we do". It is one glorification after another in circumstances where, on the one hand, literally millions of pounds of taxpayers' money are being spent by the Executive to tackle paramilitarism and move our society on, and, on the other hand, the biggest party in the Executive is hailing as heroes those who did the damage. The hypocrisy and double standards are shocking. Sinn Féin has the audacity to chide DUP Ministers for meeting those who are trying to steer people and groups away from paramilitarism, the past and criminality, while lauding those who murdered and maimed. We will take no lectures for encouraging people to change, start over and obey the law.

The continued failure to hold anyone accountable for Robert McCartney's murder is a stain on our society. I have previously urged those with information to come forward directly to the police. I have also encouraged the police to speak to those who gave statements to third parties at the time, and I do so again. We in the DUP support the McCartney sisters and all innocent victims in their pursuit of truth and justice. We will continue to oppose all glorification of individuals associated with paramilitary violence, and we will press for a justice system that treats innocent victims with the dignity and fairness that they deserve.

Danny Donnelly (Alliance, East Antrim)

International Nurses' Day is celebrated each year on 12 May, which was Florence Nightingale's birthday. Today, she would have been 205. The International Day of the Midwife was last week, and I have no doubt that Members from across the Chamber will join me in thanking our nurses and midwives for all that they do across the health service for all of us when their care is needed. I am very proud to be part of that wonderful profession, and I encourage any young person who wants a challenging and rewarding career to consider nursing.

The theme for this year is "Caring for nurses strengthens economies". It seeks to highlight how a healthy and secure nursing workforce is crucial to the overall functioning of healthcare. Without healthcare staff, there is no health service. We frequently hear about the pressures on the health system, and it is true to say that the service runs on the goodwill of healthcare workers. That is neither fair nor sustainable. Nursing is a safety-critical profession, and nurses working on the front line in overcrowded A&E departments or busy wards frequently work under high pressure for long periods. There are high rates of sickness absence due to stress and mental health impacts, and there is a significant moral injury.

This year, I hope to see the Health Minister progress the safe staffing Bill, which is urgently needed to improve the health, well-being and safety of patients and staff. We need to prioritise the well-being of nurses so that they can continue to provide the high-quality care that is critical to the health of our communities. We need them to be there for us all.

Cara Hunter (Social Democratic and Labour Party, East Londonderry)

Today, I address the ongoing issue in our national sport of camogie and highlight the importance of equality on the pitch. First, I thank all those who volunteer and devote hours of their life to coaching and engaging with our young women and girls and encouraging them to get out on the field, particularly those in the Camogie Association.

Full disclosure: I have not played a game of camogie in well over 10 years, but I still miss the cut and thrust of combat on the pitch. I feel strongly about the issue, and it is important to highlight the concerns of our young ladies who play camogie and who have been very vocal about their desire to have the choice to wear shorts on the pitch. A recent survey by the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) revealed that over 83% of players prefer wearing shorts, citing their being more comfortable and more practical.

Yesterday, I did my own experiment and wore a skort to the gym, and I can tell you that it was far from comfortable. Recently, the conversations escalated when players from Dublin and Kilkenny took to the field for a Leinster semi-final only to be told that the match would not proceed unless they changed into skorts. It is not right. The Dublin captain described the incident as a "career low", and questioned why female athletes must still fight for the right to wear the attire that suits their needs. Derry SDLP councillor Catherine McDaid has done a fantastic job of highlighting the issue.

Further protests led to the postponement of the Munster final between Cork and Waterford, as both teams intended to wear shorts in defiance of the ongoing rule. The players expressed that they felt "completely let down" and stated:

"To us, that feels like a massive step backwards."

The players must be supported.

In response to the ongoing issue, the Camogie Association has scheduled a special congress on 22 May to vote on allowing players a choice between skorts and shorts. I hope that the correct decision is made and choice is upheld. Shorts are practical and comfortable, and women's being able to choose what they want to wear in sport is so important — it is that simple.

Some will say that this is a small issue; I disagree. Others will say that there are bigger issues that we could debate or raise in this House; I disagree. It is a matter of equality, and people would not say those things about issues in male sport. We must listen to and respect the voices of our athletes across this island and ensure that tradition does not hinder progress. We must show solidarity with the ladies who are fighting for equality. I urge all the stakeholders who are listening today to make the right decision on 22 May and empower our young camogie players with the freedom to choose attire that reflects their comfort and choice. We, in the SDLP, wholeheartedly support them.

Aisling Reilly (Sinn Féin, Belfast West)

An tSeachtain um Fheasacht Meabhairshláinte atá ann an tseachtain seo, rud a thugann deis dúinn aird a dhíriú ar an ghníomh phráinneach atá de dhíth lena chinntiú go gcuirtear a ndotháin acmhainní ar fáil dár seirbhísí meabhairshláinte, agus do na seirbhísí tacaíochta a chuidíonn leo, le freastal ar an éileamh. Tá obair iontach á déanamh ag grúpaí agus ag carthanais ar leith: Tús Úr i mo thoghcheantar, bothán na bhfear agus bothán na mban, agus neart grúpaí eile atá i mbun obair fhíorthábhachtach sa réimse seo, a thugann tearmann agus spás sábháilte do gach duine. Tacaíonn sin lena meabhairshláinte, téann sé chun a leasa, agus neartaíonn sé an áit s’acu inár bpobail agus inár sochaí.

Tá obair na ngrúpaí sin, agus níl luaite agam ach dornán beag acu, tá sin le moladh. Ach tá an soláthar don mheabhairshláinte ina fhadhb mhór go fóill. Níor chóir do dhaoine agus dá gcairde gaoil a bheith ag brath go hiomlán ar thacaíocht ón earnáil pobail agus dheonach. Tá sé ríthábhachtach go ndéana an Roinn Sláinte an obair phráinneach atá sa phlean gníomhaíochta nua Protect Life 2 le féinmharú a chosc. Tá an idirghabháil agus an cosc luath ríthábhachtach, agus caithfidh teacht furasta bheith ag gach duine ar sheirbhísí. Cuirimid fáilte roimh an athbhreithniú a rinneadh le déanaí ar sheirbhísí andúile agus athshlánúcháin. Ach ní mór dúinn seirbhísí athshlánúcháin cuimsitheacha a chur ar fáil anois ag an phointe riachtanais. Cuirimid fáilte fosta roimh leathnú na samhla MDT le déanaí i gclinicí dochtúra, ina bhfuil gairmithe meabhairshláinte le fáil le cuidiú agus le tacú le daoine ag leibhéal an chúraim phríomhúil. Caithfidh sé sin bheith le fáil ar fud na Sé Chontae, beag beann ar an chód poist.

Aisling Reilly (Sinn Féin, Belfast West)

[Translation: This week is Mental Health Awareness Week, which gives us the chance to draw attention to the requirement for urgent action to ensure that our mental health services and supports are adequately resourced to meet demand. Tús Úr, in my constituency, men’s sheds, hens’ sheds and other charities and groups do great work in providing a refuge and a safe space for everyone. That, in turn, supports those people’s mental health and well-being and promotes a sense of community and place in our society. The work of those groups, to name but a few, is to be commended. However, mental health provision remains a huge issue. People and their loved ones must not be left to rely solely on the support of the community and voluntary sector. It is vital that the Department of Health carries out the critical suicide prevention work that is outlined in the new Protect Life 2 action plan. Early intervention and prevention are critical, and services need to be easily accessible to all. We welcome the recent review of addiction and rehabilitation services. However, we must now see enhanced wrap-around rehabilitation services made available at the point of need. We also welcome the recent expansion of the multidisciplinary-team (MDT) model in GP surgeries, with mental health professionals being available to help and support people at primary-care level. That must be available throughout the Six Counties, regardless of postcode.]

Alan Robinson (DUP, East Londonderry)

One hundred years ago today, on 12 May 1925, the then Prime Minister of Northern Ireland, Sir James Craig, rose in this House to pay tribute to the late Prime Minister of New Zealand, William Ferguson Massey. Craig described Massey as:

"the greatest living Ulsterman of his day",

which is a reflection of the deep pride that Ulster took in one of its most distinguished sons.

William F Massey was born in Limavady in 1856. An Ulsterman by birth, at the age of 14, he emigrated to New Zealand, where he became a farmer, earning the affectionate moniker "Farmer Bill". However, Massey's impact extended far beyond the fields; through sheer determination, skill and an unwavering sense of duty, he rose to become one of New Zealand's most significant political leaders. New Zealand parliamentary debates recall Massey as an organised, articulate and well-read statesman. He was sometimes verbose, and he was deeply influenced by biblical references. He took an Opposition that had all but ceased to exist and, through force of personality and astute leadership, transformed it into a well-organised political force. Massey went on to serve as Prime Minister from 1912 until his death in 1925, making him New Zealand's longest-serving leader. Massey's obituary in 'The Times' declared that, all through his career, though a New Zealander of New Zealanders, he would never allow it to be forgotten that he was an Ulsterman. His legacy therefore is one not just of political transformation but of deep connection to his roots in Ulster.

Today, Limavady proudly honours Massey with an impressive 2-metre-tall bronze statue outside the council building in Connell Street. The statue is surrounded by plants of New Zealand origin, symbolising the enduring bond between his birthplace and his adopted homeland. Moreover, here at Stormont, the avenue that leads up to these very Parliament Buildings bears his name; a lasting tribute to his legacy. In May 1925, New Zealand's 'The Free Lance' newspaper published a moving tribute to Massey, which includes the following lines:

"O Limavady! Grief is here: O Little town where he was born: Across the space of sea our saddened hearts With you in silence mourn. Today we laid him down to sleep In wisdom chose the crest that he Who guided still may guard the sacred spot Command both land and sea. True to his God, loyal to his King. Faithful to all and foe to none: We sorrow for a friend, but little town You loved him as a boy, a son."

As we mark the centenary of his death, let us remember William Ferguson Massey not only as a great leader of New Zealand but as a son of Ulster who carried the values of this land across the sea. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the profound contributions that individuals from this small —

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

Time is up.

Alan Robinson (DUP, East Londonderry)

— but proud part of the world can make on the global stage.

John Stewart (UUP, East Antrim)

I am sure that you will agree, Mr Deputy Speaker, that East Antrim clings to the sea and has some amazing views for people who like to walk or cycle along the promenade. Sadly, in recent weeks, the Department for Infrastructure has installed something akin to a prison wall — a 6-foot-tall fence with mesh on the front of it — along a large part of the promenade at Whiteabbey and Jordanstown.

I have been contacted by hundreds of people who live and work in the area and use that walkway and cycleway. I want to speak on behalf of the many thousands of people who have signed petitions against it. That fence was installed without consultation — without enough consultation, at least — with the council and certainly without consultation with local residents. In recent weeks, council colleagues and I have engaged with DFI officials and called on the Minister to look into and review that decision. We continue to hear about the financial pressures on the Department for Infrastructure, yet, somehow, it has found an excess amount of money to install that fence that, quite simply, is not required. One local described it as using a sledgehammer to crack a non-existent nut. That is fair.

We are all conscious of safety, but when it comes to our promenade views and respecting the local area and the aesthetics of that area, it is very important that something is looked at. I call on the Minister for Infrastructure to look at that, engage with her officials and work with the council to do all that she can to try to find a solution. I know that a solution can be found.

Sinéad McLaughlin (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Foyle)

The recent funding cuts to Echo Echo Dance Theatre Company, one of our city's most vital, inclusive and creative institutions, is more than just a funding decision: it is a profound blow to the cultural soul of Derry. Echo Echo is not just a stage company but a community; a space where people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities come together to create, move, heal and imagine something better. It supports artists, reaches into communities and contributes to our local economy. Removing its funding does real damage to the legacy that we built as the first UK City of Culture. Equity is actually holding its annual conference in Derry today. It is dreadful that the first item of business was a rally this morning against the harsh cuts to that wonderful dance theatre company.

We must value our artists and protect our cultural institutions. We must not allow Derry's creative future to be dismantled piece by piece. I urge Minister Lyons to review that decision, restore funding to Echo Echo and work with the Arts Council to develop a fair, transparent and sustainable approach to arts investment, one that supports every part of our region, not just a few. The arts sector in Northern Ireland is underfunded when compared with that in the rest of these islands. Now, we see decisions being made that compound regional imbalance. Derry and the north-west deserve better.

I am also concerned about the Communities Minister's letter of expectations to the Arts Council, which included language suggesting that funding could be withdrawn from any group whose work is deemed to be disrespectful of any tradition.

That is vague, it is subjective and it risks silencing creative voices. We must safeguard artistic freedom, not stifle it.

The decision comes at a time when communities face deep social and economic challenges. In moments such as this, the arts are not a luxury; they are a necessity. They offer connection, resilience and opportunity. Following last year's cut to the Waterside Theatre, the recent decision to withdraw funding from Echo Echo Dance Theatre Company is not just a budget line: it is a cultural loss, a blow to community well-being and a threat to the creative economy of our city. I am deeply concerned about the growing pattern of disinvestment in the arts in Derry and the north-west. Enough is enough.

Claire Sugden (Independent, East Londonderry)

May is Women's Health Month. For many women and couples in Northern Ireland, the journey to parenthood is not straightforward; it is shaped by uncertainty, emotional strain and, too often, disappointment. Fertility treatment offers a real chance, but here that chance is more limited than it should be. We are falling behind the rest of the United Kingdom. While others offer three publicly funded IVF cycles, we still offer just one. The commitment to expand access was made years ago, but it has not been delivered, and every month of delay matters.

IVF is physically and emotionally demanding. Critically, it is time-sensitive. Women spend so long on waiting lists that, by the time they reach treatment, they no longer meet the age criteria. The regional fertility centre in Belfast, which is our only NHS IVF provider, is only now contacting women who were added to the list in October 2022. That is a delay of over a year. During that time, some have lost eligibility, not because of medical reasons but because the system is too slow. The window for success is narrow. A delay of days or even hours can make a real difference. Some couples now choose to travel abroad, taking on financial pressures that they simply cannot afford, just to have the family that they long for. Every IVF cycle carries enormous emotional weight. When it does not work, as is often the case, the grief is profound.

This week is also Mental Health Awareness Week. We must acknowledge the toll that fertility struggles take — the stress, isolation and anxiety that touch every part of life — yet support is limited, and counselling is inconsistent. To make matters worse, many women are excluded by rigid criteria, including strict age and BMI limits or just because their partner has children from a previous relationship. Those rules do not affect real lives, and they disproportionately affect women who are already navigating a difficult journey.

I acknowledge those going through this quietly, under pressure and, often, with little support. They should not be left behind. Northern Ireland must implement the three-cycle commitment. We must modernise the criteria and treat fertility as a central part of women's health and well-being, because that is exactly what it is.

Diane Forsythe (DUP, South Down)

There have been debates and motions in this place on the safety of women in Northern Ireland. There is an event today in Parliament Buildings — 'Nothing About Us Without Us - Trans Voices in the Halls of Power' by the Rainbow Project — that raises huge concerns for me in this space. The event has an extremely rigid code of conduct that its organisers have imposed on anyone wishing to attend. It includes the removal from the event of anyone who dares to express dissent or any gender-critical views. The irony that such a code of conduct should be imposed on an event billed by organisers as "just a conversation" should be lost on no one.

In addition, attendees are encouraged to use women-only facilities in the Building today, including whichever toilets, they feel, best align with their gender. The facilities in Parliament Buildings are used by Members, staff and members of the public, including during school visits by children. Many of those people have expressed concerns over this and about how it makes them feel uncomfortable. Women and young girls who use the Building should feel safe in female-only spaces.

This morning, I emailed the event sponsors on behalf of all of our female DUP MLAs asking them to reconsider their support for and facilitation of the event, because, as advised by the Clerk/Chief Executive of the Assembly, sponsors and organisers of an event are ultimately responsible for the conduct of their employees and guests during events.

This party will continue to stand up for women's rights and safe spaces, as always. How long will it take for the three parties opposite in the Chamber to understand and respect what a woman is and to be meaningful in their contributions to debates on the safety of women and young girls?

Robbie Butler (UUP, Lagan Valley)

I rise to mark the beginning of ME Awareness Week and highlight the ongoing, often invisible, suffering of those living with myalgic encephalomyelitis. That complex and debilitating neurological condition affects thousands across Northern Ireland but remains chronically under-recognised and, in some cases, underserved in our health system. ME can leave individuals housebound or bedroom-bound for years. It causes profound fatigue, pain, cognitive dysfunction and hypersensitivity to light and sound. Sadly, many patients still face disbelief, stigma and a lack of appropriate care. Despite its severity, there are no specialist services for ME patients in Northern Ireland.

There will be an event tomorrow in room 115 that Members are more than welcome to drop into. For over 14 years, Hope 4 ME & Fibro NI has worked to fill the gap. Through its advocacy, education and efforts, it has kept ME on the public health agenda. I have been proud to support and work alongside the group over the years, recognising the essential advocacy that it provides for a community that is too often overlooked. It has hosted 17 international medical conferences, contributed to biomedical research and collaborated with Queen's University and Ulster University to educate the next generation of healthcare professionals. That work is driven by dedicated volunteers but is ably led by the group's founder, Mrs Joan McParland MBE. Joan's personal resilience and leadership have made a lasting impact, ensuring that ME patients are not forgotten.

As we begin this important week of awareness, I pay tribute to all who continue to shine a light on this devastating illness. I also encourage Members to spend some time in room 115 tomorrow with us.

Timothy Gaston (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

Like the Member who spoke earlier, I am deeply troubled that Parliament Buildings is hosting an event this afternoon entitled 'Nothing About Us Without Us — Trans Voices In The Halls Of Power'. Let me be clear: I do not object to debate or fear disagreement, but I do object to the forced endorsement of radical ideology under the guise of inclusion. To attend the event, individuals must accept the Rainbow Project's so-called code of conduct, a code that reflects the Assembly's own deeply flawed transgender policy, which explicitly states that biological males:

"are free to use the restrooms and facilities belonging to the gender with which they identify".

In plain language, that means that a man can use the ladies' toilets.

It gets worse. The policy demands that official records reflect a person's chosen name and gender identity, regardless of biological reality. That guts our system of accountability and undermines basic scrutiny and security. What good are records if anyone can change their identity on a whim? Even more disturbingly, the policy allows complaints to be filed against anyone who fails to affirm a person's gender identity. This should be a place of free speech, but that is a policy of compelled speech.

The Stormont guidance came into effect in 2023, seemingly without meaningful consultation, except, it seems, with the LGBT lobby groups. The equality screening form that I have unearthed claims that the policy does not affect people of faith or those with differing political views. What about Christians who believe that God made male and female? Well, our concerns are simply disregarded and brushed to the side. Those of us who are not on the transgender bandwagon are referred to the commissioner for investigation. Most gallingly of all, the screening form claims that the policy positively impacts women. Where are the voices of women? Who asked them whether they agreed to the scrapping of female-only spaces in this Building? Was legal advice sought? If so, it must have been pretty poor advice. The Supreme Court ruling has not changed the law; it has only reaffirmed it.

Single-sex protections remain in place, and Stormont must reflect that. The policy is not inclusive: it is intolerant and illegal and must be withdrawn immediately.

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

I call Paul Frew, but I remind you, Paul, that you have only one minute.

Paul Frew (DUP, North Antrim)

Thank you very much, Mr Deputy Speaker. I will talk about the amazing spectacle that is the North West 200, which was held last week. I record my sincere thanks to and appreciation for the clerk of the course, Stanleigh Murray, as well as Mervyn Whyte and the rest of the team. They put on a tremendous spectacle for all sports fans and tourists alike.

Thousands travelled to the north coast of Northern Ireland to view the bikes and their riders, and they witnessed some amazing races. My heart goes out to Michael Dunlop and Paul Jordan — two of our own, who won on Saturday and Thursday — as well as to the spectacular Davey Todd and Richard Cooper, who put on a tremendous show. We should value the North West 200 more. We in government should support it more and get in line with the sponsors, who know a good event when they see one. Well done to the North West 200.

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

Thank you, Mr Frew, for getting all that information and positivity into one minute.

Assembly Business

Claire Sugden (Independent, East Londonderry)

On a point of order, Mr Deputy Speaker. Will you confirm that the facilities in Parliament Buildings are the responsibility of the Assembly Commission, with all five political parties represented on it? Has the current policy, which was outlined by Mr Gaston, been challenged by any of the five political parties on the Assembly Commission?

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

The Assembly Commission and its policies are not matters of procedure of the House and are therefore not appropriate for points of order. The Member can table questions for written answer to the Assembly Commission on such matters.

Private Members' Business

Diane Dodds (DUP, Upper Bann)

I beg to move

That this Assembly expresses grave concern at Northern Ireland’s cancer waiting time statistics; believes that it is deplorable that between October and December 2024, less than a third of patients were seen within 14 days following an urgent referral for breast cancer; stresses that lengthy waits for a diagnosis can negatively impact on a patient’s prognosis, available treatment options and their mental health; notes the £215 million allocation in the Executive’s Budget for 2025-26 for addressing waiting lists; further believes that that funding must be ring-fenced for initiatives that increase short-term capacity, whilst driving forward lasting improvements to efficiency within our health service; highlights, in particular, the value of elective care centres, rapid diagnosis centres, and mega-clinics in addition to service reviews; welcomes the commitment in the Programme for Government to establish a delivery unit within the Executive Office to drive reform and transformation across the public sector; believes that the delivery unit can and should play a key role in supporting the Department of Health to reduce hospital waiting times; and calls on the Minister of Health, in that context, to engage proactively with his Executive colleagues on how best to apply ring-fenced funding for tackling waiting lists going forward.

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

The Business Committee has agreed to allow up to one hour and 30 minutes for the debate. The proposer of the motion will have 10 minutes to propose and 10 minutes in which to make a winding-up speech. As an amendment has been selected and is published on the Marshalled List, the Business Committee has agreed that 15 minutes will be added to the total time for the debate. Mrs Dodds, please open the debate.

Diane Dodds (DUP, Upper Bann)

Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. I welcome the opportunity to debate what, I think, is a hugely important issue for everyone in the Chamber and in Northern Ireland. I submitted the motion last month. It was agreed by the Business Committee and was included in the provisional Order Paper that was circulated on 30 April. I was a little surprised, albeit delighted, that the Minister came to the House last week with his statement on waiting lists and the unacceptable times that people wait. I am sure that the timing of his statement could only have been coincidental.

How long we wait for healthcare services is an indicator of people's view of the overall state of our health service. I specifically wanted to debate the topic of cancer waiting lists because I am extremely concerned that, although the Department continues to issue appalling statistics for Northern Ireland, those statistics get only a cursory mention in the press or in the House.

Cancer Focus Northern Ireland indicates that none of the departmental targets for cancer has been met since 2012. Are we now so immune to such shocking statistics that they pass us by without our noticing them, or have we decided that that is just the way it is? I want those who are dealing with a cancer diagnosis or who have lost loved ones to cancer to know that the Assembly is determined to do better and that we will continue to hold the Minister of Health to account on that very important issue. For us to do anything less would be a failure of our duty as the scrutiny body of the Executive.

Cancer touches everyone in Northern Ireland, with half of us expected to receive a cancer diagnosis in our lifetime. The most recent cancer waiting times, published last month, reveal that 87·5% of patients started treatment within 31 days of diagnosis, against a target of 98%. The percentage decreased from that in the previous quarter and that in the same quarter of last year, with the poorest-performing areas being urology, gynaecology and skin cancer treatment. Minister, in your response to the debate, perhaps you will explain the issues that specifically relate to skin cancer treatment in the first quarter of this year.

Percentages for the 62-day treatment target for GP referral were worse. The target time was achieved in only 37·9% of cases, which falls far short of the 95% required. For the 14-day breast cancer target, 31·7% of women were seen within the target time, against a specified target of 100%. That means that less than a third of women are seen within the target time, and that figure is down further on that of a year ago. Just imagine the fear and distress of a woman who finds a lump in her breast and then has to wait a significant time before being seen by a consultant. The situation is letting down women in Northern Ireland, and it must be rectified.

Minister, in the response to my question for written answer that you provided on 7 October 2024, you explained previously announced plans to regionalise breast cancer waits into a single list. I hope that you have good news for us today, and I ask whether you can provide an update on that regional list and how effective it is proving to be. We hope that that is proving to be much more effective than the previous system, as indicated by the percentage of 31·7% for the 14-day referral target. If the regional list is not fully in place, the House deserves an explanation for its slow progress.

I will digress ever so slightly to give a voice to children in Northern Ireland who languish on waiting lists. Minister, you recently provided me with the startling statistic that almost 25,000 children are on waiting lists to see a paediatrician in the Belfast Trust and the South Eastern Trust. Some 2,000 children are on a waiting list for surgery in the same trusts. I suggest that, by any departmental standards, that represents abject failure.

I welcome the ring-fencing of funding for health waiting lists. The issue will require prioritisation in the Health budget and additional funding from the Executive. I hope that, as we progress to having multi-year Budgets, the focus on waiting lists that was promised in the Programme for Government (PFG) will continue. I note the SDLP amendment, but I fear that it would diminish the responsibility to be placed on the Minister of Health to act in conjunction with his Executive colleagues, unless the Member who speaks to it can persuade me otherwise.

The Minister does not appear, either last Tuesday or at any other stage, to have picked up or embraced the potential for the delivery unit, which is referenced in the motion, to provide assistance. There can often be value in another set of eyes examining problems and offering a different perspective. That is why I have also referenced that in the motion.

As I have said before, I fear that the elective care framework is not nearly ambitious enough. I am not alone in that. It promotes more of the same through more small-scale offerings to our relatively modest independent sector, the majority of staff in which are already busy working for local trusts. Rather than really tackle root-and-branch reform of the elective care system, the Minister seems to prefer to resurrect a drip-feed reimbursement scheme in the form of the waiting list reduction reimbursement scheme. The Department will pay full price for every procedure as part of that scheme, and it turns the principle of the NHS on its head by allowing the wealthy to jump the queue. What possible benefit does the Minister's Republic of Ireland-first scheme really offer? A finite sum is available for all waiting list activity, so if every person who has the financial means to travel south to Dublin or elsewhere for treatment does so, that money will be gone and will not be available for treatments locally in Northern Ireland. Those who are next in line, who have waited the longest, will miss out. It does not broaden capacity, and I struggle to see the benefits. It does not result in more people being treated: it just means that companies in Dublin will benefit financially. I suggest that the Minister looks again at the proposed scheme.

Health and social care (HSC) workforce statistics demonstrate that, in the six and a half years since the end of March 2018, the number of doctors in Northern Ireland has increased by 24%, which is more than 1,000. Over the same period, our number of nurses and midwives has increased by more than 2,500, which is a 17·5% rise. With all those additional staff, why do waiting times, emergency department (ED) performances and other metrics continue to head in the wrong direction?

At paragraph 50, the updated elective care framework states:

"surgeons – one of the most expensive resources in the Health and Social Care system – spend less time in theatre than surgeons in other jurisdictions."

The Royal College of Surgeons advises that surgeons want to have more theatre time and be able to operate more. What progress has been made on improving that position? The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, said that, without better productivity and health prevention measures, health costs could "dwarf" other areas of government spending. Indeed, Professor Bengoa pointed out in the autumn that, without reform, our system, which now takes up more than half of the block grant, would soon require all the block grant.

While Northern Ireland's performance deteriorates, NHS England confirmed last month that it has hit a key waiting target for the first time. NHS statistics confirm that 80·2% of patients who were urgently referred for suspected cancer were diagnosed or had it ruled out within 28 days. The Health Secretary and the Prime Minister have announced innovative plans to slash the waiting lists in England, although they are nowhere near as bad as ours. Patients are to be offered community diagnostic centres that are open 12 hours a day, seven days a week, where you can book scans after work or at weekends.

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

The Member's time is up.

Diane Dodds (DUP, Upper Bann)

Thank you. Minister, I hope that you have some good news for patients who are on those waiting lists.

Colin McGrath (Social Democratic and Labour Party, South Down)

I beg to move the following amendment:

Leave out all after "hospital waiting times;" and insert: "and calls on the Minister of Finance to commit to introducing ring-fenced, multi-year funding to reduce waiting times over the remainder of this Assembly mandate."

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

Thank you. You will have 10 minutes to propose and five minutes to make a winding-up speech. All other contributors will have five minutes. Please open the debate on the amendment.

Colin McGrath (Social Democratic and Labour Party, South Down)

Thank you very much, Deputy Speaker. I welcome the opening of the debate and the fact that we are debating this incredibly important motion. It is the sort of thing that we should discuss in this place, because it goes to the core of what impacts on, frightens and scares people in the community. One can think of nothing that does that more than getting a diagnosis of cancer.

The amendment is offered in the spirit of trying to support and help the debate. We want to see a plan for dealing with waiting times, especially those for cancer services. The Health Minister regularly says that there are difficulties with finance. From a cross-Executive perspective, if we were able to ring-fence the funding as it makes its way towards you, Minister, that is exactly what it would be spent on, and it would mean that everybody in the Executive was taking the issue of cancer waiting times seriously. If the Department has and uses that funding, if we know what the outcome of that will be — that x amount of funds will reduce waiting lists by x amount — and if we all know what the funding is up front, there will be no competing for budgets when money goes down into Departments.

I mentioned "fear". I use that word deliberately, because it is all too often associated with cancer and cancer waiting times. For generations, the word "cancer" has carried a weight unlike that carried by any other. In the past, it was whispered; it was not spoken. It was the "Big C". It was the diagnosis that people feared more than any other. We know, sadly, that that fear remains. No matter how far medical science has come, the words "It's cancer" can land like a hammer blow. For the patient who receives them, alone or with a family member, it changes their life completely. As an elected representative, I have spoken to people who can recall with perfect clarity the moment when they heard that they had cancer. We all have party colleagues and family members who have received that news. We know that the world goes quiet and that the breath leaves your lungs. Life is then split into before the cancer diagnosis and after the cancer diagnosis. When waiting — waiting to be seen, waiting to know and waiting to begin treatment — is added on top of that fear, it becomes unbearable. It is no longer just the illness that hurts; it is the delay, the uncertainty and the feeling of being forgotten in that system. That is why we cannot speak about waiting times as though they are just dry statistics or an Executive target; they are people's stories and lives. It is our duty to respond with urgency and compassion. I have no doubt that Members across this place are committed to that cause, because none of us is immune to cancer and its impact.

We know that more must be done to combat cancer. It is important to look to best practice that we could consider adopting here. Some of that has been referenced. One example is that several NHS trusts in England and in the South now utilise AI and high-resolution digital imaging to analyse tissue biopsies. Little things such as that are being done in different ways to help to speed up diagnosis and, therefore, people's access to treatment. It has enabled faster, more accurate diagnosis, particularly in breast, lung and prostate cancers. In some instances, it has cut diagnostic waiting times by as much as 30%. We can clearly see how that reduces hospital pressures and helps to address health inequalities among those who are more prone to receiving such a diagnosis. We know that the Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research has commenced work on that, but we should support it further.

While new and emerging technologies and new ways of running services are delivering better outcomes, we know that they carry a financial cost. Therefore, it is essential that funding for such services be ring-fenced across multi-year budgets. The reason for proposing the amendment is that we know that, in any sphere, if you know what your budget will be going forward, you can start to plan the work that you will do. You cannot do that if you have one-year budgets all the time or money coming in from monitoring rounds. If the Executive, supported by the Opposition in the House, decide that we want to tackle waiting lists, because it is one of the biggest issues, let us really throw all our might behind it. Let us give the Department the tools that it needs to tackle and reduce waiting lists, especially for cancer. As I have said several times, there is nothing more frightening than getting a cancer diagnosis, but, after getting that diagnosis, there is nothing more insulting than weeks and weeks of radio silence while you wait to access treatment. I really believe that ring-fenced budgets would help. They would give the Health Minister another tool to continue his work of challenging waiting lists and giving the people in our community who get a cancer diagnosis the best possible fighting chance of overcoming it.

Philip McGuigan (Sinn Féin, North Antrim)

I thank the proposer of the motion for bringing the issue to the Chamber today. The most recent statistics for waiting times for cancer patients do not make good reading: they highlight a situation for cancer patients that simply is not good enough. As we have heard, only 87·5% of cancer patients started treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat, instead of the target of 98%. Only 37·9% of patients started treatment within 62 days following an urgent GP referral for suspected cancer, when that target is set at 95%. Just 31·7% of people were seen by a breast cancer specialist within 14 days of an urgent referral, despite the fact that all urgent breast cancer referrals should be seen within two weeks.

As I said when I made a Member's statement on the issue in the House a month ago, after the figures were published, we have to acknowledge that several caveats are at play with any statistics, so some caution should be exercised. What is clear, however, is that the reality falls far short of the expectations that people have when they begin their journey of cancer tests and, if appropriate, diagnosis and treatment. It is important to remember that those figures are not just statistics but equate to real people. In many cases, they equate to our own lived experience or that of family members, friends, work colleagues, neighbours or people in our wider communities. Any delay in diagnosis or treatment has the potential to impact on physical and mental health. Anyone who has waited for an appointment following a red-flag or urgent referral will attest to the worry and anxiety that fill the time between that referral and getting the results. For those who receive a cancer diagnosis, the need for urgency in getting any necessary surgery and beginning treatment can become all-consuming.

We are now acutely aware of the importance of catching and treating cancer early in order to improve outcomes. Awareness-raising campaigns that encourage us all to be alert to early indications of certain types of cancers have been very effective. They allow the continued growth of opportunities to screen people who do not have symptoms, which has, no doubt, helped to save lives. It is important that that is followed up by timely intervention. That is good not just for patients but for the health service as a whole. We are into the third year of a 10-year cancer strategy, and we must do better. The Minister must build on the cancer strategy's recommendations, including a focus on cancer research, which has a key role in improving diagnostics, treatment options and, ultimately, patient outcomes. The concerns raised in the Auditor General's recent report on the condition of imaging equipment such as MRI and CT scanners need to be addressed. I hope that the Minister will provide an update on that in his response.

Where improvements and progress towards reducing waiting times are being made, that should be acknowledged. The rapid diagnosis centres and mega-clinics referred to in the motion are good example of that. I welcome the additional £10 million that has been allocated to those clinics and the commitment to invest in red-flag and time-critical services, capacity-building and clearing the backlog. The Minister's statement last week was welcome, but the implementation plans, which are to be published later this month, must include clear targets, timelines and performance indicators. Transparency will be key to building public confidence that the investment is being used to its maximum effect.

Today is International Nurses Day. I record my support for and appreciation of all our nurses and all those training to be nurses for their compassion and hard work and the invaluable role that they play in supporting patients across all settings in our health service, helping our communities and keeping our people healthy. In the context of the debate, we are all aware of the pressures on our health service and the people who work in it, so, again, I take the opportunity to recognise that and the work of all our healthcare professionals.

Nuala McAllister (Alliance, Belfast North)

I thank my colleague on the Health Committee for moving the motion.

Like others who have already spoken, I express deep concern and dismay at the current state of cancer waiting lists in Northern Ireland. Unfortunately, it is not the first time that we are debating the matter. We have discussed it over many months since the return of the Assembly, but the hope is that, in the end, the situation and outcome will get better. As a member of the Health Committee, I am frustrated by the lack of progress. However, I recognise the attempts at making progress. I can only imagine how difficult it is for members of the public and how they must feel when they do not have the capacity to get the answers that they require to the question of when they will receive their diagnosis or treatment.

As has already been highlighted by many Members, only 31·7% — the target is 100% — of breast cancer referrals were seen within the 14-day target from September to December 2024. As colleagues have said, we heard from the Minister last week regarding the breast cancer regional referral system, and I asked a question after that ministerial statement about whether we could receive an update on that. If the Minister does not have an update today, we could perhaps ask for that update at our next Health Committee meeting. Regional planning is important. Breast cancer is just one of the cancers that can be targeted regionally. In my questions after the ministerial statement last week, I also asked about the planning of other regional waiting lists, because many medics have highlighted the fact that there are multiple people on multiple waiting lists across the trusts.

We have also seen that 1,445 cancer patients started treatment following urgent GP referral for suspected cancer and that 37·9% of them started their treatment within the 62-day target. However, the target is 95%, as has been highlighted previously. When we speak to the medics on the ground, whether it is emergency medicine workers, staff, consultants or resident doctors, many say that some of those diagnoses are being made in our A&E departments. That is not a situation that we should find ourselves in.

Those are just two examples of a slight increase from the previous quarter, but 31·7% and 37·9% are not good enough results, and I do not doubt that the Minister agrees.

The 2020 study published in the British Medical Journal, which states that, for many cancers, a four-week delay to surgery increases the risk of dying by 6% to 8%, adds even more weight to the idea that we should do something now to change that outcome permanently. Statistics from Cancer Research UK show that almost all those who are diagnosed with breast cancer at stage 1 will survive compared with only three in 10 who are diagnosed at stage 4. Likewise, with bowel cancer, nine in 10 people diagnosed at stage 1 will survive, yet it is only one in 10 for those who are diagnosed at stage 4. We are talking about people whose lives are so drastically impacted on — it impacts not only on them but on their families.

Another issue that many Members have touched on today is the fact that the statistics are not entirely complete. With the roll-out of Encompass, I ask the Minister this: when will we start to get complete statistics so that we can compare and see where progress has been made? We stood in the Chamber last week and welcomed the progress that was highlighted by the Minister on tackling waiting lists and the initiatives created, but we now need to see and evaluate the effectiveness not only of those actions but of the actions that have been taking place since the Assembly was restored.

I am delighted to support the motion, but it is difficult to get up time and again to talk about the unacceptable delays in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Thank you very much for tabling the motion.

Alan Chambers (UUP, North Down)

Few issues are as important as cancer care. As we all know, cancer is a disease that does not wait but, instead, often thrives in any period of delay. That is what makes the current challenges, which have existed for a considerable number of years, so intolerable. The delays are being compounded by increasing levels of cancer prevalence. Cancer is increasingly becoming one of those diseases that will impact on all our lives at some point, either directly or indirectly. The motion, understandably, is shining a light on the challenges that undoubtedly face the broader service. Of course, behind every statistic, every percentage or every missed target is a patient and family going through the very real fears and anxieties that come with cancer. For MLAs and, no doubt, the Minister, few issues are considered as seriously as delays in time-critical treatments. Thankfully, tangible actions have been taken and progress has been made in recent times. For instance, the pathways and treatments for blood cancer were far too disjointed, but reviews of the three main pathways have now been completed, and new ways of working have been adopted, with the primary objective of having faster treatment and better outcomes for patients.

Equally, waiting times for breast cancer assessments have been genuinely awful. Again, major progress has been made, even in recent days, which I hope will see a much greater equalisation of waiting times in the coming months. We should all hope that the postcode lottery for waiting times, which has seen women in some trusts having to wait much longer than others, will now be at an end once and for all.

Last week, we also had an overview from the Minister on how he is going to allocate the elective funding that has been ring-fenced in this year's budget. He has understandably, and rightly, prioritised a proportion from that for tackling the urgent and time-critical waits. As the Minister will likely highlight once again, the vast majority of the £215 million is not new or additional money. I welcome the amendment that has been selected. It emphasises again the importance of multi-year funding. However, for the avoidance of doubt and perhaps to help inform the remainder of the debate, I will give way to any of the signatories to the amendment if they want to clarify that it is asking the Minister of Finance to commit to additional funding, rather than to ring-fencing existing Health funding.

Colin McGrath (Social Democratic and Labour Party, South Down)

I thank the Member for giving way. Yes, absolutely. There is not enough money to deal with the issues that we have, so I entirely expect that it will take additional and ring-fenced funds to be given to Health. If we are truly serious about dealing with the issue, we absolutely need more funds, but they should be ring-fenced so that they specifically go to Health and the public can see what they are doing.

Alan Chambers (UUP, North Down)

I thank the Member for that clarity.

In conclusion, I am really disappointed with the continuing negativity from Mrs Dodds about the reimbursement scheme, which is a genuine attempt to reduce our waiting lists. To say that it will not have an impact on the waiting lists is a nonsense, because if it takes 1,000 people off the waiting list, that means that 1,000 fewer people are ahead of you as you wait for your procedure. When summing up the proposals, I would be interested in the DUP's clarifying whether Mrs Dodds's point of view is, in fact, DUP policy now for that scheme.

Ciara Ferguson (Sinn Féin, Foyle)

This subject touches every one of us in the Chamber and, indeed, throughout our communities, whether it be through personal experience or the experience of a family member, friend or neighbour. We have all been affected by cancer. If, by some small chance, you have not been yet, you will be. Obviously, that is the brutal truth of it. Let us be absolutely clear: lengthy waits for a diagnosis can devastate a person's prognosis, limit the treatment options available and place an unbearable burden on the mental health of the patient and their family. That is not acceptable, not in 2025 and not ever.

I welcome the £215 million that has been ring-fenced in the Executive's Budget to address waiting lists, but what matters now is how that money is spent. It must be spent efficiently and strategically and not be lost in any bureaucratic layers or swallowed by systems that are no longer fit for purpose. We need a dual focus on short-term capacity and long-term reform. Elective care centres, rapid diagnostic hubs and mega-clinics can make a real difference. So too can better data, better planning and better cross-community trust and cooperation. We cannot just pour money into old models; we must invest in smarter, more sustainable outcomes. This is not just the Minister of Health's responsibility; it is a shared responsibility. The Health Committee, other parties across the Chamber and the wider health and voluntary sectors all stand ready to help the Minister. The people whom we represent want to see action, and we urge the Minister to take the lead and engage proactively with Executive colleagues to drive change across the board. It is also imperative that the voices of teenagers and young people are heard on this issue. Around 115 teenagers and young adults here are diagnosed with cancer every year, and they must be fully represented in healthcare planning and support services.

We also need to confront a serious issue: women are more likely to experience late diagnosis and worse outcomes in many non-sex-specific cancers. In bladder, kidney, colorectal, gastric and head-and-neck cancers, women face significantly longer delays than men, sometimes by weeks. Those delays cost lives. Too often, women's symptoms are dismissed or misattributed to stress or menstrual pain. At the same time, women are underrepresented in clinical trials, leading to gaps in understanding of how treatments affect them. Between 2019 and 2023, male-only clinical trials outnumbered female-focused ones by 67%. That is unacceptable. We must raise awareness, equip healthcare professionals with gender-sensitive training and ensure that clinical research includes and reflects the needs of women. I urge all women to attend breast and cervical screening and also to take up bowel screenings, skin checks and other cancer diagnostics. As we know, vigilance saves lives.

I take this opportunity to commend the work of Cancer Focus, Cancer Research and a local organisation in my constituency, Hive Cancer Support, which does fantastic work in raising awareness in the local population of the key symptoms and signs to look out for. I urge everyone here, when they see information around that, to continuously share it on social media.

Finally, we must think beyond the borders. There are real opportunities in the cross-border healthcare directive and in an all-Ireland approach. We already have outstanding all-Ireland cancer research bodies. We should be building on that, sharing knowledge, expertise and capacity across the island to ensure that no one waits longer than they have to for a diagnosis, a treatment or a fighting chance. Let us match our words with urgency and compassion. Let us ring-fence the funding and make it count. Let us reform, not just react. The people of Ireland deserve nothing less.

Paul Frew (DUP, North Antrim)

I support the motion from my party colleagues Ms Diane Dodds and Mr Alan Robinson. I place on record our satisfaction and our gratitude to Diane and Alan for the sterling work that they do on the Health Committee in representing the people and, secondly, this party and its views and policies. It is service that is second to none, and that has been reflected in the debate. The near-unanimous support for Diane and Alan's motion is a measure of the strength that they have in that Committee. If we, as a devolved Assembly, cannot assist in our nation's health, we may as well shut up and go home. There is nothing more important than the health of our people, because from health springs everything else. Therefore, it is vital that people have a health service when they require it.

People need to have trust and confidence not only in our health service but in our Health Department. I make a distinction between the two because very rarely do you get a complaint about a staff member — the caring nurses and doctors who meet and greet patients under traumatic circumstances with diagnoses of the most serious nature. We do not usually get walk-ins to congratulate the health service. We usually have to prise it out of people, but when you do get to speak to people, they usually tell you that they had really good service and that a really good, caring bunch of professionals looked after them. However, there are so many horrific stories from people who come into our offices who are still waiting and waiting and waiting. A diagnosis can be devastating, traumatising, horrific. Imagine the fear and distress, though, when they have to wait and wait and wait. The statistics — they are people — are absolutely shocking and shameful. If the devolved Assembly cannot get to grips with waiting times, not least cancer waiting times, we will have failed.

What do we do? Trust in the Health Department is probably at its lowest ebb in decades, so it is important that we have a strong Minister. To be honest, it is probably more important for all of us that we have a strong Minister in Health compared with any other Department. As I listened to Members speaking, I could not help but think of the Members who have been affected by cancer. I have been here since 2010, and I can rack up a few Members who have been directly affected or have family members who have been affected. My prayers and thoughts have always been with those people. However, that just shows what cancer does and how it rips through communities, families and people. It is probably the biggest enemy that our people have when it comes to health, so why can we not get to grips with it?

I remember being in someone's house the week after they were diagnosed with cancer. Unfortunately, it was the week in which our previous Health Minister said, during COVID, that cancer patients would be turned away. Words can be clumsy, and I am as much a culprit of that as anyone, but the devastating effect that those words had on that lady was as if she was melting away in pain, sorrow and anxiety. When people sit on waiting lists, it is as if the clock goes faster, and they become more and more anxious and stressed. Of course, stress, being what it is, will impact on and affect people on waiting lists, not least those with cancer.

Cancer is a devastating illness that needs to be tackled, and we should resolve to do all that we can. However, if we think that we can simply throw money at the issue without the Health Department and the health service being transformed, we are mistaken —

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

Time is up.

Paul Frew (DUP, North Antrim)

— because one must come with the other.

Danny Donnelly (Alliance, East Antrim)

I thank Mrs Dodds and Mr Robinson for tabling the motion. We have heard plenty of statistics already, and they are harrowing. We miss every target. Unacceptable delays are now normalised, and, yes, the numbers are awful.

I fear that, in among all the noise, we are beginning to lose sight of what the numbers represent. We are here today because every missed cancer target is a person: a woman waiting weeks to hear whether a lump is cancerous; a father whose treatment is delayed; or a family who are trapped in uncertainty. The debate is not about systems but about lives. As has been said, we all know somebody who has been affected by cancer.

The statistics represent not a marginal failure but a systemic breakdown, and, critically, the statistics are not a one-off but part of a pattern that has become dangerously routine. We regularly get updates on missed targets. Not delivering has become normal. As Mrs Dodds said, news reports barely mention the missed targets. The evidence is clear that early diagnosis and treatment saves lives. A delay of just four weeks in starting cancer treatment can increase the risk of death by up to 8%. Those are not abstract figures. Rather, they are measured in lives that have been shortened, in more aggressive treatment plans and by the emotional toll on patients and their families, who are navigating a longer and more uncertain journey.

The Executive have recently allocated £215 million in the Budget to address waiting lists. That is a significant investment, but, let us be honest, money without vision and accountability will not be enough. We cannot ignore the fact that we already have a comprehensive cancer strategy, which was launched in 2022 with broad political and sectoral support, yet, three years on, it remains largely underfunded. A strategy without resources is just a press release. If we are serious about change, we must back our ambitions with actual investment and not just intentions.

Let us not forget that sustainable health reform cannot be delivered through one-year Budgets. Hospitals, trusts and front-line services cannot plan staffing, invest in diagnostic capacity or roll out innovations when they have only 12 months of certainty. Multi-year Budgets are not optional but essential if we are to stop firefighting and instead start planning. Every pound that we spend must be tied to outcomes. We absolutely need short-term wins, such as more appointments, faster access and backlogs cleared, but they alone will not solve the problem. Rather, we need lasting, structural reform.

There has been progress made, such as investment in long-term capacity, rapid diagnostic centres, mega-clinics and elective care hubs and better use of digital systems and technology in order to streamline care. I welcome the Minister's recent announcement and his plans to address waiting times, but I stress that those plans cannot become another forum for discussion. They must deliver. They must challenge Departments and empower them to cut through the layers of bureaucracy and to prioritise front-line services where they are needed most. That means institutional reform.

For too long, our health system has been burdened by fragmented structures, sluggish processes and the recurring pattern of stop-start governance. That instability has paralysed long-term planning, undermined investment in critical services and left Departments scrambling to manage crisis after crisis. In the nine years since the release of the Bengoa report in 2016, we have had a functioning Assembly for only four years, owing to the shutdowns of this place by the two biggest parties. We know that the Assembly is only as stable today as it was the day before the most recent shutdown.

Cancer care, like so much else, cannot thrive in a system in which governance is intermittent. We need a stable Government that function consistently, cohesively and with accountability. The current model is failing patients, and that situation cannot go on. It is also vital that we protect and support our health workforce, because the truth is that no reform, no matter how ambitious, will work unless we have the people to deliver it. Nurses, radiologists, oncologists and so many others are exhausted, and too many are leaving the system.

I urge the Minister to look at increasing the availability of screening by lowering the age for bowel cancer screening and by introducing a plan to screen for lung cancer. Perhaps he can speak to that in his remarks. The Minister is keen to act on screening, and he has previously said that it is something that he cares about. Sadly, we know that one in two of us will get cancer in our lifetime. Cancer does not wait, so neither should we.

Stewart Dickson (Alliance, East Antrim)

Cancer is not just a disease but a thief that steals time, futures and lives. Although cancer does not discriminate, our systems, sadly, do. They discriminate between those who get seen on time and those who do not and between those who survive and those who become a statistic. I know that, because I stood in those shoes. In 2019, I sat across a table from a consultant and heard the words that no one wants to hear, "You have cancer". I learned something else that day, however, which was the difference that speed, expertise and decisive action can make.

I am thankful for the extraordinary staff in the NHS and their skills, including my GP, the staff at Antrim Area Hospital and the Cancer Centre and the surgeons at Belfast City Hospital.

Before I move on, I have a question for the Minister. The theatres at Belfast City Hospital are always over capacity: when will plans be provided for the new elective care theatres at Belfast City Hospital? When will they be built to take pressure off the existing facilities?

I stand here, having survived one of the least survivable cancers. My story should not be the exception; it should be the norm. Instead, the system is failing far too many people across Northern Ireland when they need it most. The latest figures are not just disappointing: they are a disgrace. Between October and December 2024, only 34% of patients began treatment within 62 days of an urgent GP referral, and the gap is widening. Ten years ago, the figure was more than double that. As for breast cancer, only one third were seen within the critical 14-day window, down five percentage points on the previous year. Let me be clear: that is not just inefficiency; it is injustice. Every day, that is a gamble with lives. Research in the British Medical Journal shows that a four-week delay in cancer surgery increases the risk of death by 7%, rising to 13% for radiotherapy and chemotherapy. For breast cancer, delays of eight and 12 weeks can increase the risk of death by 17% and 26%. Those are not numbers: they are our parents, partners, children and friends. They are people who can be saved but only if we act quickly and with the urgency that the system demands.

Funding alone is not enough. Yes, the allocation of £215 million for waiting lists is welcome, but questions remain over implementation that, I hope, will be addressed in the elective care framework action plan that will be published later this month. We need to see detailed plans and programmes to improve outcomes and a workforce that retains the specialists whom we are losing. Above all, we need to treat the situation with the urgency that it demands. Behind every statistic is someone's mother, father or child who is running out of days while we stand here and debate. We must never forget the human cost of those failures.

To those watching today who are waiting for a diagnosis, waiting for treatment and waiting for hope, I say this: I see you because I have been there. I have sat where you sit. I know the frustration, the anger and the sadness. I saw it in patients around me who did not make the journey that I made. However, I know that change is possible, so long as we and the Minister have the political will to act. Minister, why has it has taken so long to get to this position? Why was this not part of your day-1 brief? The time for warm words is over. Now is the time to show a real plan that is measurable and timetabled and contains actions for delivery.

Claire Sugden (Independent, East Londonderry)

I support the motion and the amendment. I commend the motion's sponsors, because these are the issues that the House needs to talk about. Our role as public representatives is to improve public services, and we could certainly do better in this area.

The state of cancer waiting times in Northern Ireland is not only unacceptable but deeply unjust. In Women's Health Month, I want to talk about breast cancer waiting times. We have heard that fewer than one in three patients referred urgently for suspected breast cancer were seen within the 14-day target. Just over one third of patients referred with suspected cancer began treatment within 62 days. Those are not just missed targets; they are missed chances to intervene, reassure and save lives. I know what it feels like. I recently found a lump and, like many women, was red-flagged. That should have meant getting an appointment within two weeks, but I waited 12 weeks. Had I lived just a few miles away in another trust area, I would likely have been seen much sooner. That postcode lottery is as real as it is unfair.

Thankfully, my result showed that it was just benign breast tissue. However, for 12 weeks, I, like so many others, sat with uncertainty. I was as sick as a dog. Every time I showered, I felt the lump. Right now, too many people across Northern Ireland recognise that fear and that awful question hanging in the air.

When I was finally seen — on a Sunday, thanks to additional clinic capacity — the service was outstanding: a one-stop shop where, if I had needed a biopsy, I would have got it that day. The staff were compassionate. The system was efficient. All of that should be the norm, not the exception. What really struck me most was the waiting room. It was packed with women of all ages, backgrounds and ethnicities. Some were sitting on their own. Some were holding hands. All were waiting in silence. The weight of anxiety was palpable. That is why the debate matters: it is not just about capacity but fairness. It is about the emotional toll of delay. It is about ensuring that no woman — no patient — is left sitting for weeks or months without answers, especially when we can do better. As public servants, we can do better.

I welcome the regional breast assessment list. It is a vital step towards ending that postcode-based inequality. It makes sense. Why it has not been in place before now is baffling. I welcome the £215 million that has been allocated for the waiting list work. I support the call for it to be ring-fenced and applied in a way that genuinely increases short-term capacity and long-term reform. The issue will repeat itself in 10 years if we do not do as the amendment says and have multi-year budgets. Mega-clinics, elective care centres and the new delivery unit all show promise, but they must be expanded and embedded as part of systemic change, not a pilot project that comes and goes as funding comes and goes.

Let us also be honest about the need for sustained multi-year investment, not just headline announcements, because reform will succeed only if it is resourced, strategic and focused on patient outcomes. The motion asks us to step up not just as politicians but as people who are entrusted with the care of our communities. We must fix this, and we can fix it this.

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

Members, Question Time begins at 2.00 pm so I suggest that the Assembly take its ease until then. The debate will continue after Question Time, when the next Member to speak will be the Minister of Health. Please take your ease.

The debate stood suspended.

(Madam Principal Deputy Speaker in the Chair)

Oral Answers to Questions — The Executive Office

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Question 13 has been withdrawn.

Eóin Tennyson (Alliance, Upper Bann)

1. Mr Tennyson asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on their Department’s role under the Online Safety Act 2023 in relation to ending violence against women and girls. (AQO 1945/22-27)

Harry Harvey (DUP, Strangford)

10. Mr Harvey asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline any direction that has been provided to local government regarding the administration of the strategic framework to end violence against women and girls, to ensure continuity of funding allocations. (AQO 1954/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

With your permission, Madam Principal Deputy Speaker, I will answer questions 1 and 10 together.

The delivery of the strategic framework to end violence against women and girls requires a whole-of-society approach. We have engaged with Ofcom on online safety and mobilised work across all councils through our change fund. The Online Safety Act 2023 introduced new, UK-wide laws to protect children and adults from online harm, and placed specific obligations on online service providers. We support Ofcom's call to tech companies to play their part in addressing the risks of online harm, and recently met Ofcom to discuss that important issue. The ending violence against women and girls small business research initiative (SBRI) challenge fund has identified a number of innovative solutions for women and girls' safety, including challenging problematic behaviours online. A current Ofcom consultation is looking specifically at the protection of women and girls online.

I am pleased to have got confirmation in the past couple of weeks that a person has been successfully prosecuted, under a section 181 charge, for making threats against me. The charge was of sending messages by way of online communication conveying a threat of death or serious harm, and at the time of sending, intending that the individual — me — would be in fear that the threat would be carried out. That is one of the more serious charges in that legislation. I am pleased that there has been a successful prosecution of that individual and that he will be sentenced very shortly.

Some Members

Hear, hear.

Eóin Tennyson (Alliance, Upper Bann)

Thank you, deputy First Minister for that answer. I express my solidarity with you on the threat and abuse that you received. Hopefully, the individual in question will be held to account for that.

There has been speculation that tech regulation and online safety regulation may be on the table as part of trade negotiations that the UK Government have undertaken with a number of countries. Do you agree that we should not sacrifice online safety regulation and the safety of women and girls online as part of those negotiations? Have you made representations to the UK Government to that effect?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The Member will be aware of the UK-US trade agreement that was announced last week. We are working through the details of that. Many people will be pleased to see that that rumoured aspect did not feature. The Member will also be aware that, for many years, my colleagues and I have advocated stronger protections for women, in particular. In recent months, we have seen threats towards and abuse of public representatives — men and women — across the House. We have raised the fact that there is a particular issue, as recognised by a number of reports, for women. With the incident that I mentioned — I know that many of us get a significant amount of abuse — where a specific threat of death was communicated via online communications, I am glad that the legislation was there. That is a good demonstration that the Online Safety Act can and will be used to successfully prosecute, and we await sentencing. It is incredibly important that the courts take these matters seriously. It is an issue that unites all of us: we stand shoulder to shoulder to say that it is absolutely wrong that there is abuse of, and threats and violence towards, any public person, never mind an elected representative, who is simply trying to do their job.

Harry Harvey (DUP, Strangford)

Does the deputy First Minister agree that it is completely unacceptable that any woman in public life should have a fear of violence simply because they are doing their job?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Absolutely. Women have a right to participate in public life without suffering abuse or threats of violence. Indeed, we want to actively encourage women to get into public life. However, sadly, we know from personal experience — we have heard the stories from many people, not just in this place but in other public roles — that women in public life are subjected to serious, sustained and severe abuse on social media. Often, one cannot identify who the person is or that the threat may include a specific act or threat of violence. Nevertheless, we know that the abuse builds up and has a negative impact on not just those individuals but the participation of women generally, with women not wanting to be part of public life or to become a public representative due to that. It is an important issue that is right at the heart of our strategy to end violence against women and girls. It is one of many behaviours that takes place because of prejudice and misogyny. It needs to be stamped out.

Cara Hunter (Social Democratic and Labour Party, East Londonderry)

I put on record my solidarity with and support for you, deputy First Minister, in everything that you are going through. No one should have to face any kind of threat when doing their job.

Recently, during a discussion in the European Parliament, there was a suggestion of having a direct helpline — a 911, if you will — for digital abuse. Do you think that we should have something similar here in Northern Ireland specifically to tackle misogynistic digital abuse?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for her sentiments and her important question. There is always a balance when it comes to free speech in all of this. In any democracy, people should be able to freely express a view, but, where that crosses over into abuse or threats, that is clearly wrong. I welcome the fact that it has been recognised that a number of tools are needed to deal with the issue, including not just the new offences under the Online Safety Act that we have seen in action already but the aspects of that legislation that compel social media and online companies to take action. That is why the current Ofcom consultation is really important. I believe that it is open until 23 May. I encourage Members to respond to that by telling of their own experiences and the types of issues that the guidance needs to cover. That will be vital. I do not want any woman or girl to suffer abuse online. I certainly do not want it to get to a level at which a young person feels that they do not want to go into politics or at which a woman feels that they want to step back from front-line politics. It is really important that we tackle the issue. It is important for inclusion to be there and for our public representative space to be a safe one in which people are able to do what they need to do.

Sinéad Ennis (Sinn Féin, South Down)

I, too, send solidarity to the deputy First Minister and everybody across the House who has experienced abuse in the course of their role. It is completely unacceptable and needs to be called out.

Will the deputy First Minister provide an update on the Power to Change public awareness campaign?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Indeed. We know that that type of abuse causes significant distress and can make people very scared. I felt afraid, and I continue to feel afraid when I think about the future, because of the actions of that individual. That is utterly wrong. I think that, despite our differences in political opinions and aspirations, we all get into public life to try to make a positive difference and to do what we can to push forward an agenda that we feel passionately about or to help and support individuals with their cases. It is fundamentally wrong that, in trying to do that, we can suffer abuse and threats and can be put in a position of feeling fearful about that.

Our strategy recognises that that behaviour starts at a much earlier stage; as I said, it starts at the point at which those values, prejudices and opinions are formed. That is why that campaign is so important. It is about encouraging people to be active bystanders and call out that behaviour at the earliest possible opportunity. It is not just a bit of a laugh; it represents a certain type of view that makes people very uncomfortable. It starts at a very early stage. Unfortunately, we often see that come to a particular point at which there is threat, violence and worse. I am glad that the strategy deals with that in the broadest possible way. The campaign is important as part of that.

Tom Buchanan (DUP, West Tyrone)

2. Mr T Buchanan asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their assessment of the Supreme Court judgement in the case For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers on 16 April 2025. (AQO 1946/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The recent Supreme Court judgement on the For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers ruled that, for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010, the definitions of "sex", "man" and "woman" refer to biological sex. The issue is under consideration in the Department and right across government. It is important to remember that the judgement is likely to have tangential and other impacts. It is likely to have an impact here in Northern Ireland. I have no doubt that, over the next number of weeks, there will be much discourse and debate and that guidance and other things will be issued. It is also important that our public bodies, Departments and others pay attention to the judgement and make sure that they comply with the law.

Tom Buchanan (DUP, West Tyrone)

I thank the deputy First Minister for her response. Does the deputy First Minister agree that it is fundamentally wrong and unfair that trans people who are biologically male have been able to compete in women's sports, use women's bathrooms and be placed on female prison wings?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his supplementary question. That is a topical question, for understandable reasons. I commend those who have campaigned on the issue — who have been subjected to a significant amount of abuse for trying to stand up and protect female-only spaces for women. We must always be conscious that the debate should be carried out in a way that is not about offending anybody; of course it is not. It is not about not recognising people's existence or demeaning them. It is about recognising biological reality and the right that women have to be protected in women-only spaces. It is about recognising what is, in my strong view, the fundamental and unfair advantage that somebody who is born male has in a sports team or sports arena. Fundamentally, it is common sense. I think that the vast majority of people recognise that and do not want the debate to be carried out in a way that hurts or demeans people but instead want the rights of women to be stood up for and implemented in a way that protects women, particularly in spaces where they are vulnerable or where there could be significant unfairness.

Matthew O'Toole (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast South)

Notwithstanding the outcome of the court case, which is a court case and needs to be understood and acknowledged, will you, as deputy First Minister, make any attempt to reach out specifically to people in the trans community — ordinary trans people, including those who are having an event upstairs in the Building today — who feel anxious and, at times, frankly threatened by some of the language that is used in politics, in order to assure them that they are esteemed and should be treated with proper respect?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his question and assure him that I have engaged with the trans community on a number of occasions to date. I will say this very clearly: in everything that I say, I make it clear that no person should be subject to harassment or discrimination, and, indeed, that people should be attributed dignity — of course they should. I feel very strongly about this issue, which has been very toxic. Women who have taken a different view from the trans lobby, for example, have been subjected to vile abuse and threats, including death threats and threats of violence. That is wrong.

There are different views on the issue. Fundamentally, it is a common-sense approach that "male" and "female" relate to biological sex and that, in implementing that, we protect women in women-only spaces and should ensure that there is fairness in things such as sport.

Gerry Carroll (People Before Profit Alliance, Belfast West)

I condemn the threats towards you, deputy First Minister. Violence or threats of violence towards anybody are disgraceful and wrong, whoever the person is.

Given that the BMA stated that the Supreme Court ruling is "biologically nonsensical" and "scientifically illiterate", do you think that we should listen to the medical experts rather than foolishly follow the Supreme Court ruling here?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Thank you. Let us be very clear that the Supreme Court is the court. It is the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom. It is made up of people who sit and make a judgement on such legal matters. It is a matter of biology as well. A woman is a woman. I am a woman. I know what I am. With the greatest respect to the Member, as I said, we can engage in debate on this in a respectful way, but there are, nevertheless, strong views, and they should be respected. I have a strong view, as do many women and others, that the Supreme Court was correct, and they look forward to seeing its judgement being implemented in a way that does not harass or demean people but protects women.

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

I ask that we move away from opinions and views to fact, so, in light of that, I ask this: what impact will the clarity of the assessment on the need for non-discrimination on the basis of gender reassignment have on the Executive Office's work on equality for all, including members of our trans community?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his question. As I indicated in my initial response, the matters are under consideration, but there is no doubt that, legally speaking, it is not just a matter of opinion. It is clear that the Supreme Court judgement will have tangential impacts and that there will be significant impact across many areas of operation of Departments, agencies and arm's-length bodies. Clear guidance needs to be given on the law, and that is a duty on each Department and body. I know that there has been reference to the Equality Commission and other bodies. Those bodies can issue their own guidance, which we will look at carefully, but the legal position is the legal position, and bodies and Departments must make sure that they comply factually and legally with what the Supreme Court has said. We will look at these issues carefully.

Aoife Finnegan (Sinn Féin, Newry and Armagh)

Will the Minister outline the protections that exist for trans people here?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Thank you. Significant protections remain in place for individuals from the trans community here. For individuals who are undergoing or have undergone gender reassignment, there is the Sex Discrimination (Northern Ireland) Order 1976, as amended by the Sex Discrimination (Gender Reassignment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999 and the Sex Discrimination Order 1976 (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016. There are also protections in the Employment Equality (Sex Discrimination) Regulations 2005. There is quite a bit of protection here, as, indeed, there is across the UK. The judgement referred to other legislation and guidance that may refer to "men" and "women" without the specific interpretations set out in those other pieces of legislation.

I assure people that there are protections, but it is about also protecting places for women where they are particularly vulnerable, for example, or where there would be any unfairness in relation to inclusion.

Maolíosa McHugh (Sinn Féin, West Tyrone)

3. Mr McHugh asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline any plans to fill vacancies on the Maze/Long Kesh Development Corporation. (AQO 1947/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

We are considering options for filling vacancies on the Maze/Long Kesh (MLK) Development Corporation board. We recognise that the vacancies place an additional burden on the remaining board members, and we are grateful to them for their continued efforts and commitment.

It would be remiss of us to discuss the Maze/Long Kesh site without mentioning the Balmoral show, which will take place later this week from 14 May to 17 May. It is a fantastic showcase for the region and, indeed, our agriculture and agrisector. We encourage everyone to visit if at all possible. We would also like to highlight the fantastic work of the Ulster Aviation Society (UAS), which, as Members may well be aware, brought the Spitfire replica to Parliament Buildings last week as part of the commemoration and celebrations of the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. The UAS attends a variety of shows and events, but members of the public can arrange to visit the collection in the hangars, and I genuinely encourage people to do so. The UAS has a remarkable collection at the site, so it is a really good day out.

Maolíosa McHugh (Sinn Féin, West Tyrone)

Gabhaim buíochas leis an leasChéad-Aire as ucht a freagra.

[Translation: I thank the deputy First Minister for her answer.]

Minister, will you detail what is happening with the retained and listed buildings on the site?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

As the Member is likely to be aware, there is an obligation relating to maintenance of the listed and retained buildings, and that continues.

David Honeyford (Alliance, Lagan Valley)

The role of the Maze/Long Kesh board is to deliver the development of the whole site. You have mentioned the Ulster Aviation Society and the Balmoral show, which are great examples of what can happen. We have also heard the deputy First Minister talk about sensitivity, but that should not mean doing nothing. When will the deputy First Minister enable progress that will see the board able to fulfil its job?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his question. He will be aware that I have a constituency interest in the site as well. The site has huge potential. I would particularly love to see the economic potential of that site unlocked. The Member will be aware that, alas, there is no agreement on the listed and retained buildings. The then deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness, set down that there would be no development above and beyond what had already been agreed until there was such agreement. There was a subsequent agreement to allow the Air Ambulance to be located on the site, and I welcomed that agreement.

At this stage the issue has stopped the economic and other potential of the site. I appeal not only to my colleague in the Executive Office but others to use a pragmatic approach to allow some of the potential to be realised in the meantime, while we continue to look at some of those other tricky issues.

Stephen Dunne (DUP, North Down)

Will the deputy First Minister join me in noting the positive contribution of large-scale events such as the Balmoral show, the North West 200 and the Open Championship, which is coming up in Royal Portrush, in showcasing the very best of Northern Ireland and their impact?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Absolutely. I thank the Member for his timely question. I was at the North West 200 on Saturday, and the First Minister was there on Thursday evening, which, I believe, was her first time at it. It was a spectacular occasion. Over 100,000 spectators enjoyed the sunshine. There was sunshine for the second Saturday in a row in the north-west, and it really brought the spectators out. My goodness, what a showcase of our wonderful north coast through that event.

Events like that are not just about the spectators, riders and participants in Northern Ireland. I have no doubt that the Open and other events, such as the Balmoral show and the VE Day celebrations of last week, showcase our fantastic offering in Northern Ireland. Millions of people all over the globe will have watched the North West 200, and millions will watch the Open this summer. They will see our beautiful coastline and get to know about Northern Ireland, and we hope that they will say, "I am interested in finding out more". It is a real opportunity for us to attract those tourists or that investment and business through the unique aspects of what we can offer. We should use every opportunity to promote Northern Ireland.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Before I call Paul Frew, I remind Members and, indeed, the deputy First Minister that all supplementary questions and answers need to relate to the question. Minister, you will have to repeat yourself when answering question 5.

Paul Frew (DUP, North Antrim)

4. Mr Frew asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline the number of applications to the Troubles permanent disablement payment scheme from North Antrim. (AQO 1948/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The Victims' Payments Board, which makes decisions on entitlement to payment through the victims' payments scheme, has advised that the inclusion of postcode information when applying is not mandatory. That means that a large number of applicants do not provide that data, which means that it is not possible to use the board's IT system to get a breakdown of successful applications by constituency. A manual review of applications would be required to retrieve that information.

I have communicated, though, that I believe that the information would be useful, particularly in the planning of services, were it communicated to the Department of Health. We know that many people have come forward to the board, and they have not been diagnosed with conditions, particularly on the mental health side. Having the data would be really useful for the planning of support services. As I outlined, at the moment, it is challenging to extract it from the system.

As of the week commencing 28 April 2025, more than 11,000 applications have been submitted to the scheme and a total of 3,204 determinations have been made, resulting in more than £89 million being paid to eligible applicants since the scheme opened for applications.

Paul Frew (DUP, North Antrim)

Thank you, deputy First Minister. Maybe the reason that we cannot get that data is the real fear and concern that some victims have about the terrorist threat. Does the deputy First Minister agree that the crass and hurtful glorification of terrorism by the First Minister goes against the ministerial code of conduct and the spirit of peace and reconciliation and makes a nonsense of the claim to be a First Minister for all?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his question. The First Minister is answerable for her own activities, of course, but I can say clearly to this place that I believe that any glorification of terrorism is wrong. Of course, families may want to remember their loved one, and they can do so privately. That is understandable, but the public glorification of those who have been convicted of terrorist activities is absolutely wrong in my view. It has no part to play in Northern Ireland, and it never did. It certainly has no part to play in our future. I want us all to stand united against paramilitarism, intimidation, threats and any glorification of same.

Justin McNulty (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Newry and Armagh)

First Minister, your colleague, the other First Minister, believes that the horrendous and futile violence of the past was justified, and her party believes the same thing. Do you believe that it is justifiable that many victims of that violence are languishing, unable to access justice or the permanent disablement payment scheme, and are suffering physically and mentally with pain and impairments?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his important question. I have met many who applied to the scheme: those who were severely injured and those who have permanent mental scars as a result of what they experienced during the Troubles. The scheme is designed to try to support them. I am pleased to say that I have been very much involved in supporting the scheme throughout and in pushing the UK Government, at a time when this place was not sitting, to introduce legislation. I am on the record as really pushing the issue at Westminster.

As I outlined in my initial answer, the situation is very complex. At least one in three cases that comes before the payments board includes multiple incidents. Much of the data is historical and is across records that have been kept over many decades. Unfortunately, it is taking time to issue payments. I am pleased to say, however, that the amount paid out in 2023-24 was around the £24 million mark. In 2024-25, the amount has increased to in and around £46 million. That is almost double the amount that was paid out in the previous year. That is a very good indication that the processing of applications is speeding up and that money is being got out to people, with almost £90 million having now been paid out to give essential support to those who suffered the most during the Troubles.

Paula Bradshaw (Alliance, Belfast South)

On the issue of processing, I am sure that the deputy First Minister will agree with me that the voluntary-sector organisations that have provided support with applications have been doing an amazing job. Once an application is submitted to the board, how often is the process being reviewed? Are any changes planned for the future to make the process easier for applicants?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

We recently met the chairperson of the board to talk through those issues and to be assured that the board is continually reviewing its system. A number of significant changes have been made that you will be aware of from your role on the Committee. The key strands of the business improvement programme have been implemented. That came about following the recent innovation and consultancy services' review, which looked at all kinds of things, including improving IT systems, attempting to avoid duplication and trying to provide additional support. We are working with the health trusts, GP practices and the PSNI on many of the legacy files. Manual application is very often required in order to try to find and gather information, and that inevitably leads to delay. A significant number of applications — over 11,000 — have come through, so, understandably, the process has been logistically challenging. Nevertheless, we want people to get support as quickly as possible, so we and our officials will continue to work closely with the board to try to do everything in our power to speed up payments so that they are issued as quickly as possible.

Maurice Bradley (DUP, East Londonderry)

5. Mr Bradley asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline any discussions that they had during their recent visit to the United States of America to maximise the economic benefits of hosting the Open at Royal Portrush Golf Club in 2025. (AQO 1949/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his question. We promoted the Open during a visit to North Carolina as an example of Northern Ireland's attractiveness as a location for golf, major events, investment and tourism. I further highlighted the Open during my visit to Washington DC. Hosting the Open featured in speeches at the Northern Ireland Bureau breakfast in Washington DC, at which the Claret Jug was on display for the 250 guests and media outlets in attendance.

While I was in DC for St Patrick's Day, a number of people mentioned Rory McIlroy to me. What an incredible export we have in him. His name is internationally recognisable, and he is recognisably from Northern Ireland. There are promotional opportunities out of that, as there are with many of our sportspeople. I put on record once again our congratulations to Rory on his magnificent victory and on completing his career Grand Slam. People across the entirety of Northern Ireland are incredibly proud of Rory and what he has achieved.

We could not have imagined a better set-up for the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush. It will be the largest-ever sporting event held in Northern Ireland, showcasing its stunning beauty and hospitality to the world. The Open is one of the most prestigious events in the global sporting calendar, attracting international business leaders, investors, tourists, stakeholders and global media. It is predicted to generate more than £213 million in total economic benefits for Northern Ireland.

Maurice Bradley (DUP, East Londonderry)

I thank the deputy First Minister for her answer. The Open has previously given Northern Ireland a significant economic boost. How can we ensure that we build on that and maximise the economic benefits from the Open this year?

I thank Members for their praise of events on the north coast — the Open, the North West 200, SuperCupNI etc — but I ask them to recognise the fact that, on the days on which those events are held, there are 100,000 to 200,000 people in the area, with the nearest hospital being Altnagelvin Hospital in Londonderry.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

I am sorry: we have run out of time.

Maurice Bradley (DUP, East Londonderry)

Apologies.

[Laughter.]

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

That ends the period for listed questions. We now move to 15 minutes of topical questions. Topical question 5 has been withdrawn.

Matthew O'Toole (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast South)

T1. Mr O'Toole asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister, after acknowledging the deputy First Minister's earlier remarks, in which she mentioned the importance of showcasing and visiting things, and the fact that, along with the First Minister, she has made a habit of visiting places — she mentioned North Carolina, Washington DC and the North West 200 — what they spend their day doing, given that when he looked at the Executive Office website he found that it has been more than two months since TEO's last substantive policy announcement, which was on the start of a competition for a new Commissioner for Public Appointments. (AQT 1281/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Thank you — actually, I am not sure whether to thank the Member for that question but I will answer it nonetheless. We are hugely busy with trying to drive forward an ambitious programme for change across the Executive. In the 14 or 15 months that we have been in post, we have secured unanimous agreement in the Executive on a Programme for Government — the first to be agreed in well over a decade. We have also secured Executive agreement on the transformation programme and the spending of that money. We secured agreement on the Budget and key reforms. We have achieved agreement on the establishment of a new AI unit and a delivery unit. We have been working on all those things because we are committed to doing things differently and driving forward that change. Yes, a significant part of our role is about being out there, representing and championing Northern Ireland and showing our support for great organisations and events. I assure the Member, however, that we are continuing to work hard to drive progress against the nine key priorities in our agreed Programme for Government.

Matthew O'Toole (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast South)

Deputy First Minister, I appreciate that you have secured agreement to a Programme for Government and a Budget. Those are the bare minimum that any Government should do. Most people who watch politics here have seen your party, probably with the acquiescence of your main partner in government, Sinn Féin, delivering nothing but inaction. You have turned politics here into one long Old Firm game.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Is there a question, Matthew?

Matthew O'Toole (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast South)

Deputy First Minister, people here, particularly young people, want more than endless rows over signs and statues. Do you think that you and the First Minister, given all the money that you have spent on travel, are providing value for money for the Northern Ireland public?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

It is an absolute nonsense to say that there has not been delivery and commitment to driving things through. Quite frankly, the young people of Northern Ireland are sick of negativity and of people trying to put a spin on things because they want something to oppose.

Some Members

Hear, hear.

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The Executive have delivered a Programme for Government and they have ambitions.

Some Members

Hear, hear.

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

They have nine key priorities. We have already seen the announcements on our actions for tackling waiting lists. That could only be done because the Executive have prioritised and ring-fenced funding for that purpose. The Executive Office has a priority to end violence against women and girls. We have produced not only a strategy on that but a framework, and money is already out the door with organisations for that purpose and campaigns are already running. A series of actions is taking place. I am sorry that the Member has not focused on those; perhaps he is unaware of them. I can assure you very strongly that we have not been focusing on some of the other wedge issues that your party has been focused on trying to find.

Some Members

Hear, hear.

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

We have been focusing on driving forward progress in this place and making Northern Ireland work.

Paul Frew (DUP, North Antrim)

That told you.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Excuse me. Deputy First Minister, I could not hear half of your response because your party colleagues were saying "hear, hear" in the background. Will you knock it on the head? It is not cute. The same goes for the Opposition. Andrew, you will be heard.

Andrew McMurray (Alliance, South Down)

T2. Mr McMurray asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister, after noting, as a South Down representative, the growth of the film industry in Northern Ireland and the stunning site locations that there are in South Down due to its landscape, what engagement there has been to mitigate the impact of potential US tariffs on that industry. (AQT 1282/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his question. I, for one, am glad of the support behind me.

Some Members

Hear, hear.

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The film industry in Northern Ireland is genuinely fantastic. The First Minister and I have had the opportunity to promote the industry on many occasions and it is a key part of our offering.

We have invested heavily in that, including through the city region deals, and, of course, Studio Ulster will open in mid-June 2025. Therefore, we were concerned to hear that there was the potential for tariffs on the film industry. We have a number of US investments in our creative industries, and we want that investment to continue. Of course, that is not the only aspect. We are engaging with many other countries to try to get production in Northern Ireland, and we will continue to do so.

Yes, we have been raising that issue, and we raised it just last week with the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds, and flagged that we are concerned about that. There are no details yet on how that will operate. Most people agree that it will be difficult to implement that type of tariff on this type of thing, but, of course, we will be vigilant and do everything in our power to make sure that people are aware of the importance of that sector to Northern Ireland and to make sure that we are mitigating the impact at every opportunity.

Andrew McMurray (Alliance, South Down)

Thank you, deputy First Minister. When will an international relations strategy be published that takes into account the specific needs of the film industry as a source not just of economic growth but of cultural output?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

We are at an advanced stage with the international relations strategy. The Member will appreciate that a number of global events have taken place, not least the change of president in the United States. That brought a very different direction in the global environment, particularly in relation to foreign direct investment and what we would be targeting. We have to be acutely aware of those changes and make sure that our international relations strategy is fit for purpose in that context. We are taking all those things into account. The picture of where we will land internationally with global trade and tariffs is still very unclear, but we will take all that into account and will shortly bring forward our international relations strategy.

John Stewart (UUP, East Antrim)

T3. Mr Stewart asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister to confirm what has been done to promote the Troubles permanent disablement payment scheme in GB for people who were injured in Northern Ireland and moved across to GB and those who were injured at the hands of terrorists while living in GB. (AQT 1283/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I am pleased to say that efforts have been made to promote that, including by using online social media messaging or by targeting newspapers in other places where people from here or those who may have been impacted on by the Troubles are likely to be. In Northern Ireland, in February 2024, a leaflet was put through every door to raise awareness, so we are confident that there is very wide awareness of that scheme in Northern Ireland. There have been a significant number of applications from GB. Indeed, the last time I looked, there were, I think, just over 500 applications from GB. It is clear that the message is getting through, but, of course, we encourage those who were physically or mentally injured during the Troubles to come forward and make sure that they are getting the benefit of that scheme.

John Stewart (UUP, East Antrim)

I thank the deputy First Minister for that answer. You highlighted a number there, Minister. In response to a recent question, we heard that, between 1 February 2024 and 1 February this year, the scheme received 178 applications from people from England, Scotland and Wales, with 3,900 applications from those in Northern Ireland. Do those figures bear out the fact that more could be done to highlight the scheme in GB to try to make sure that everyone who was affected is aware of it and knows that they are eligible to apply?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Absolutely. We are keen on that. It is important to remember that this is a scheme that comes from the Northern Ireland block grant, and our block grant exists primarily to benefit the people of Northern Ireland. However, we recognise that many, many hundreds, if not thousands, on the mainland were impacted on, physically and psychologically, by the Troubles. That includes many of those who served, for example, in the armed forces, and that support was not there for them at the time.

We have been in ongoing engagement with the UK Government about a financial contribution to the scheme. I believe very strongly that it makes sense that those based in GB are able to come forward to the scheme instead of GB having to set up a separate scheme, with all the administration costs that that would bring. If we are to do that and increase the applications from GB, the UK Government should step up and make a contribution to the cost, which is likely to be significant. Fundamentally, we want everybody to get the support that they need, but funding fairness is an important aspect of this.

Deborah Erskine (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

T4. Mrs Erskine asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister, given that, in June 2021, the then First Minister and deputy First Minister made a public commitment at the former site of Lisnaskea High School to several redevelopments on that site, including capital build projects for a health centre, an Irish-medium school and a base for the innocent victims group South East Fermanagh Foundation (SEFF), while welcoming the fact that the health centre is under way, whether they agree that those projects are important for the Lisnaskea area and that there should continue to be a commitment to those projects in Fermanagh. (AQT 1284/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for her important question. I am fully supportive of the project. It is a fantastic project that brings together statutory services — in the health centre — the school and, importantly, the community sector. It really will breathe new life into that site in a genuinely shared way. It is a fantastic project that perhaps, in the past, has suffered from the fact that there is no dedicated fund to support it. There ought to be. That type of shared initiative opens up those spaces and gives them a new use that is genuinely about every part of our society and community being able to come and use them. That is a great thing.

Certainly, the then first Minister and deputy First Minister were more heavily involved in the project than I was; I was a special adviser at the time. We have been looking at trying to have a capital scheme as part of our Victims and Survivors Service, in recognition of the fact that many of our fantastic victims and survivors groups have capital buildings that were funded through PEACE or other funds. However, that was a considerable time ago. There is a need to make sure that those premises are accessible for disabled people and fit for purpose. That is under active consideration within the Executive Office.

Deborah Erskine (DUP, Fermanagh and South Tyrone)

I thank the deputy First Minister for her answer. She will know that it is not just about capital for innocent victim groups like SEFF. SEFF does a vast amount of work in supporting innocent victims and helping them through the justice process, which can be arduous and difficult, particularly for innocent victims. However, does the deputy First Minister agree with me that access to justice is important for innocent victims, that the door must not be closed to them, that we must ensure that justice is not denied, and that the system does not become a two-tier system?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Absolutely. Far too many people — thousands of people — in this place have never had justice for the injury or death of a loved one: that is an absolute tragedy. Those are the people who have suffered most from the Troubles, and it is those people who we need to help and support. My party and I have always been clear that we oppose amnesty and that everyone has a right to, and should have an opportunity to get, justice. I feel apprehensive that the message that is being sent to many innocent victims is that there is a two-tier approach in which one body is good enough for them but not good enough for others. It is incredibly important that there is no hierarchy of victims, that the two-tier approach does not continue and that everyone has the same right of access to justice. The death of a loved one matters just as much to one family as to any other, no matter who killed that person. One person's life matters just as much as the next person's life. Therefore, the opportunity for justice and the structures to get justice should be the same for all victims and survivors. The people who know the truth should come forward and give victims and survivors closure.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Topical question 5 has been withdrawn.

Peter McReynolds (Alliance, Belfast East)

T6. Mr McReynolds asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister what response the Executive Office has given to the National Audit Office report on asylum accommodation contracts that was published in recent days. (AQT 1286/22-27)

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his question. He will be aware that the Prime Minister made a statement this morning on a number of actions on immigration, refugee and asylum issues. It is not a devolved issue, but the Member will be aware that the Executive Office liaises with the Home Office on its distribution of funds and its activities in Northern Ireland, including those in relation to hostels, hotels and other accommodation. There are concerns about the way that the Mears Group and other companies have operated in Northern Ireland. We have articulated those concerns. I have articulated them directly to the Minister of State who is responsible for those matters. I understand that concerns about the operation of some of those companies are shared across the UK. It is a challenge; there is no doubt about that. We will continue to work on those issues, including in the number of meetings to look into these matters that we will have in the next number of weeks.

Peter McReynolds (Alliance, Belfast East)

Thank you, deputy First Minister. Given that the costs are four times higher than originally envisaged and that the accommodation is broadly unfit for purpose, what update do you have for us today on when the refugee integration strategy will be published?

Emma Little-Pengelly (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Thank you. The Executive have agreed the refugee integration strategy. Very shortly, it will be published. I assure the Member that concerns have been shared. I have particular concerns about the lack of transparency on the data and information coming from the Home Office and the organisations. That needs to change. People need to know what is happening and exactly where it is happening. We will continue to push on that issue. I have raised it directly with the Minister of State.

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Thank you, deputy First Minister. Time is up.

Oral Answers to Questions — Education

Carál Ní Chuilín (Sinn Féin, Belfast North)

Questions 6 and 14 have been withdrawn.

Claire Sugden (Independent, East Londonderry)

1. Ms Sugden asked the Minister of Education to provide an update on when a decision will be made regarding the initial site for Causeway Academy. (AQO 1959/22-27)

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The Education Authority (EA) submitted a business case to my Department on 4 April 2025 to facilitate the establishment of Causeway Academy. My Department has never had such a significant capital requirement presented to it arising from an approved development proposal (DP), and it has never committed to such significant works to facilitate a DP as those proposed for Causeway Academy without the full rigours of a major works call for projects. I met EA officials on 8 April to discuss the options in the business case, and I asked for the options to be reviewed and the business case resubmitted to my Department. That work is currently under way.

(Mr Deputy Speaker [Mr Blair] in the Chair)

Claire Sugden (Independent, East Londonderry)

I appreciate that: that is new information. The Minister will be conscious that the delay in announcing the new school site will have an impact on people applying for the new Causeway Academy and we need that reassurance as soon as possible. Does he have a timeline for when we can expect that answer?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I appreciate the comments and share the views that the Member has raised with me. I have met the principals behind the school, and, recently, I have engaged with the newly appointed principal who will take forward the school, and those concerns have been expressed to me. As I said in my original response, I have met my senior officials and the EA, and they are reviewing the issues for me.

Options are being considered. They include the operation of the school on a split-site basis. It would be premature, though, to speculate on the preferred site option until all options under consideration had been progressed through the business case process. That is what will identify the preferred way forward. I appreciate the question about the timeline, and I have asked EA and my officials to bring forward information on that as soon as possible so that we can give clarity to the school.

Nick Mathison (Alliance, Strangford)

Can the Minister provide an update on the identification of an agreed site for mid Down integrated college and on the ongoing progress to deliver that project?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The question is exclusively about the Causeway proposal. Members can ask what they wish, but I do not have a response prepared for that question.

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

Members have been reminded already today that questions should relate directly to the original question.

Maurice Bradley (DUP, East Londonderry)

Having had meetings for several years with the educational establishments that will form the new school, I am extremely disappointed that it is now back to the drawing board and that no clarity has been given. Can the Minister provide clarity, at least to the new board of governors, on where the project is going to go and the way forward?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Mr Bradley has been a consistent and passionate campaigner for progress to be made on the site. He has made representation to me on a number of occasions. The challenge that has presented is with the significant, major capital expenditure in order to facilitate location on the site that had been identified and with which the Member will be familiar. I have met officials and suggested that they need to look at an approach that makes it much more manageable financially. My preference is that we commence the work at the preferred site. That is what I want the day-1 solution to be, and that is what I am still asking my officials to work towards. They are reviewing the process that was brought forward. I have asked them to give me a solution that would meet what, I know, the Member and other Members who have made representations to me on this want. It is frustrating for me that I am not in that position today. I understand that it is much more frustrating for those involved that we still do not have the clarity that is needed to make the progress that, I know, the Member wants, and I will continue to persevere on his behalf.

Phillip Brett (DUP, Belfast North)

2. Mr Brett asked the Minister of Education for an update on the development of the RAISE programme in North Belfast. (AQO 1960/22-27)

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

There has been very positive engagement with stakeholders in North Belfast through locality engagement events, focus groups, individual meetings and strategic area plan workshops. There has also been engagement with parents and with children and young people led by Parenting Focus and Stranmillis University College respectively, and their findings will support the development of the north Belfast strategic area plan.

The north Belfast locality reference group met on 9 May. The group comprises members from a range of educational settings and voluntary and community organisations and others with a valuable role to play in supporting children's learning in the north Belfast locality. The group is representative of the locality and is open to those with a role in developing the strategic plan for the area. One strategic area plan will be produced for the north Belfast locality that will set out the range of needs of children and young people in RAISE areas in North Belfast and prioritise objectives that will support their educational achievement and aspirations. The north Belfast locality, alongside the other RAISE localities, will submit its draft strategic area plan for assessment and approval by an assessment panel led by my Department. Organisations will then be invited to submit applications for individual projects to deliver against the priorities in the plan.

Phillip Brett (DUP, Belfast North)

I thank the Minister for that update and for the work that his officials are doing to roll the programme out quickly. Will the Minister agree that the work that his Department is undertaking shows his personal commitment and, indeed, that of our party to ensure that every young person in North Belfast has the best start in life?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Very much so. The Member has had me visit a number of areas in his constituency, and there is a clear desire for the project to be successful. I am pleased that we have made significant progress in allocating the funding that has been provided through the Shared Island Fund. We have now been able to allocate that funding, and each group has been given the figures that they have to work with. That work is being taken forward so that we can deliver, particularly on closing the educational attainment gap that very much exists in our communities.

Nuala McAllister (Alliance, Belfast North)

The Minister will be aware that North Belfast has some of the most impoverished areas in Northern Ireland. In developing the programme for tackling educational underachievement, will any pilot projects work hand in hand and, in particular, work in partnership with parents to tackle the issues of poverty that lead to educational underachievement?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The Member makes a really valuable point. That is very much what RAISE is about. It is a whole-community response. It is not a school-led initiative; it is a community-led initiative. Therefore, it is important that, as programmes are developed, there is collaboration with interested stakeholders, whether they be parents, community-based organisations or, indeed, schools. Those can be community or statutory organisations, including those involved in the health service. RAISE is about bringing forward the community-led initiatives that will have most impact on raising educational achievement and helping young people to realise their aspirations.

Pat Sheehan (Sinn Féin, Belfast West)

Minister, the Assembly and a number of councils have raised concerns about the design of the RAISE programme and how it might divert much-needed funding from areas that need it most. Has the Minister reflected on any of those criticisms?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Yes. Concerns were raised, and we provided transparency on the data that was used. I assure the Member that a wide range of indicators, including free school meal entitlement, were used to shortlist the super output areas for potential inclusion in the programme. The methodology for the selection of RAISE localities reflects the findings and recommendations from the 'A Fair Start' report that was published in June 2021. There was a sound rationale for the methodology.

I am delighted that we have a regional geographical spread. Interestingly, some councils that made representation might well not have got any funding had we not taken the approach and methodology that were taken to provide a regional spread. Now, after reflection, some settings or areas that wish to include some areas that do not strictly fall within the clearly defined red lines, if you want to call them that, will have the flexibility to do so, albeit within the funding allocated to those areas. If they decide to include some other provision from outside the area and if it is a close neighbour, there will be flexibility, and that reflects the concerns that were raised with me.

Now, having allocating the funding, we need to see the programmes come forward so we can get the money into our communities to be effectively spent. Having secured the funding, I want to go back unashamedly to the Irish Government and say, "We need continued funding for this", so let us get on with the work.

Justin McNulty (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Newry and Armagh)

Can the Minister give details of how the place-based partnerships are being established? What measures is his Department taking to ensure that all relevant stakeholders are involved in this critical programme?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

In each locality, a strategic area plan will be delivered. The local reference group will draw together the key organisations that will be part of the process, building the relevant people to be part of it and developing those plans. When they produce that, ultimately, it will still come to the Department for approval. That will gain the widest possible collaboration and ensure that cross-cutting initiatives are supported.

I am excited about this. It is a good opportunity to get into the communities with the highest levels of educational underachievement and make a real difference and to do it in a localised context in order to tailor the educational programmes for maximum possible impact.

Mark Durkan (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Foyle)

3. Mr Durkan asked the Minister of Education to outline any steps that have been taken in schools in Foyle to counter increasing tensions between communities. (AQO 1961/22-27)

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

As a result of the funding being made available by the Executive programme on paramilitarism and organised crime (EPPOC), a programme is in place to provide wrap-around education services to children and young people facing significant challenges in the greater Shantallow area. The programme of flexible interventions was designed and implemented in partnership with experienced delivery agents and delivers against both my Department's and the EPPOC programme's objectives. It is managed by the Greater Shantallow Area Partnership. While the Education Authority's Youth Service is not delivering any youth interventions physically in schools in the Foyle constituency, it is delivering several interventions outside the school environment to counter increasing tensions between communities.

Mark Durkan (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Foyle)

I thank the Minister for his answer. I am not sure that it answers my question, which was focused on issues that have emanated recently and publicly in and around the Waterside area in particular. However, we welcome any initiative to educate our young people on the evil of sectarianism and the dangerous and deadly destination that it can lead to and has led to in the past. Will the Minister agree that, as elected representatives, we have a responsibility and that what we say and do here matters? We should all focus on the common good. Of course, we can disagree, but we should do so respectfully and without whipping up fear and driving division.

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Absolutely. I agree with the Member. Political leaders, in their constituencies and at a Northern Ireland level, should give leadership in a way that does not inflame tensions, so that those tensions can be mitigated. That is important. We have moved on so far in our society.

When we look back at where we were many years ago, undoubtedly progress has been made. However, much more progress has still to be made. We need to make sure that we do not create opportunities for the more sinister elements in our communities to exploit in order to whip up tension. Therefore, I agree with the Member. It is important that we give leadership on those issues.

Maurice Bradley (DUP, East Londonderry)

Will the Minister give more details on the interventions being delivered by the EA Youth Service to give us a better idea of what he has in place?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for that question. A number of interventions take place in the Foyle constituency. There is a local project funding opportunity, and funding has been awarded to voluntary youth work providers working specifically with young people from Irish Street and Top of the Hill, which is an interface area. That project funding will focus on early intervention support to engage children and young people from those areas with a view to building more positive relationships between the two communities.

The Education Authority has also administered the Executive Office planned intervention programme and the T:BUC — Together: Building a United Community — programme for the 2025-26 year. I confirm that a number of applications have been submitted from groups in the Foyle constituency. Groups will be notified in the coming days regarding the outcome of their application.

The EA Youth Service is also funding local youth provision to be delivered in the Waterside area over six evenings per week. This is funded by DE and the Department for Communities. Those programmes are primarily focused on providing a safe space for children and young people to access universal services and provide alternatives for them.

We also have the Connect project, which is for young men who have been victims of sectarian violence or paramilitary-style attacks. They are being supported in a one-to-one process. There is the Engage project, which is working with young people in the Waterside who are vulnerable to exploitation from criminal gangs. That is in operation. Two early-intervention programmes that are co-facilitated with the Police Service are at the planning stage for delivery in the city area. That demonstrates that we are taking forward schemes to try to help in that community.

Trevor Clarke (DUP, South Antrim)

4. Mr Clarke asked the Minister of Education for an update on the roll-out of TransformED NI. (AQO 1962/22-27)

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

It has been an eventful two months since I published the TransformED Northern Ireland strategy on 11 March. In April, I unveiled the delivery plan for the strategy, which translates the strategy’s vision into actionable steps. It outlines key delivery partners, indicative timescales and costs.

Last week, I held the first TransformED conference to explore what TransformED means for our schools. The conference was attended by over 500 school leaders, policymakers and education partners. The key speakers were members of the international ministerial advisory panel, which I established in January. The conference was the first of its kind for many years and a fantastic event. The buzz, excitement and optimism from our school principals, as they heard world-class insights about education, was very clear.

There has also been progress across a range of areas, including curriculum, assessment and teacher professional learning. For example, working with the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA), my Department has introduced a new system-level sample assessment in literacy and numeracy for pupils at the end of each Key Stage. I have also launched a new programme called Making Best Practice Common Practice, which aims to help bridge the gap between academic research and classroom practice. The programme includes funding for schools to support research-informed conferences, a monthly newsletter for teachers on the science of learning and a quarterly Northern Ireland publication for teachers on wider education research.

Over the coming months, we will be accelerating our plans for literacy and numeracy strategies, assessment and qualifications reform, and school improvement, as well as tackling teacher shortages in maths, science, technology and IT. Each of those steps is part of a coherent, evidence-based approach to build a system that does not just compete with the best in the world but sets a new standard for excellence. I commend it to you.

Trevor Clarke (DUP, South Antrim)

I thank the Minister for his answer and congratulate him on his initiative that engages with schools directly, which is, as he said in his speech, the first of its kind in a long time. Will the Minister outline why he chose those particular priorities for this engagement, or why some of those things were chosen as the way forward for the Department of Education?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

They were chosen because the research tells us that they are the right things to do. It is clear that high-quality teaching and learning are at the heart of driving educational improvement. Successful school systems ground changes in the classroom by focusing, first and foremost, on teachers and the content that they deliver. Moreover, over the past decade, those areas have received limited focus and investment, and all need reflection, evaluation and improvement. For too long, we have focused on structural issues in Northern Ireland, whether those be academic selection or types of schools, and I believe that we have focused on those issues to little avail. The heart of education lies in the classroom. We need to focus on what and how children learn and for what purpose.

I am therefore embarking on taking a comprehensive approach that focuses on supporting teaching and on reforming the curriculum, assessment, qualifications and school improvement. All are fundamental to educational excellence. The next steps for education in Northern Ireland must be underpinned by a commitment to investment and reform in each of those areas.

Matthew O'Toole (Social Democratic and Labour Party, Belfast South)

I am keen to understand, Minister. Clearly, it is a comprehensive and ambitious plan that you have set out, and one that you have been working on for some time. Has it been discussed in detail at the Executive? If so, did all parties' Ministers agree to it?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The plan that I am taking forward is a Department of Education-led plan. All of it has consensus, because we are all in agreement that we want the very best for every single school. The Department of Education is leading on the plan, and we are making significant progress. I took heart not just from the number of principals who told me at the conference how they felt very enthused and optimistic but from those who had low expectations for it and did not think that it would be worth attending. They now very much get the vision, however. It is not my vision. Rather, it has to be our collective vision that we make Northern Ireland's education system the very best in the world. That is what our children deserve.

Peter Martin (DUP, North Down)

5. Mr Martin asked the Minister of Education what consideration he is giving to the impact that the Supreme Court judgement in the case For Women Scotland Ltd v The Scottish Ministers will have on his Department. (AQO 1963/22-27)

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

In light of the recent UK Supreme Court judgement, I have asked my officials to consider the Department's policy in that area. I intend to set out the Department's policy on the issue in the coming weeks. Let me make it clear, however, that, regardless of the recent court decision, I do not believe that a boy who identifies as a girl should participate in girls' sports or use girls' changing and toilet facilities.

Some Members

Hear, hear.

Peter Martin (DUP, North Down)

I thank the Minister for his answer. What is his assessment of the potential implications of the Supreme Court judgement for Northern Ireland's education settings, particularly schools?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for his question. I have asked my officials to consider the implications of the ruling across the education system in order to ensure that the Department, all its arm's-length bodies (ALBs) and schools are in compliance with the legal definition of "sex" and balance the rights of all pupils. It is an important issue, on which the UK Supreme Court has made a ruling. It is important that I follow the law, that all Departments follow the law and that all those in the education system follow the law.

Some Members

Hear, hear.

Sian Mulholland (Alliance, North Antrim)

Minister, you know that our schools should be safe havens and safe spaces for all young people. I know that you have said that on a few occasions. Given that 48% of LGBTQIA young people admit that they have been bullied in schools, and given that we know that they are more at risk of suicidal tendencies and self-harm, what will be, and is being, put in place in schools to support our trans, non-binary and queer young people?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The Member is right to say that every child in our education establishments should not be bullied and not be harassed. Where that takes place in schools, effective measures need to be put in place to address such issues. Those measures should be applied irrespective of sexual orientation. We want every child to feel safe in our school settings.

Timothy Gaston (Traditional Unionist Voice, North Antrim)

Can the Minister confirm that the Supreme Court judgement did not change the law but merely clarified it? Has he ever sought legal advice on the issues that I have raised with him over the past eight months about the use of school toilets and of pronouns?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I thank the Member for the question. It is important that there is absolute clarity on the matter: the Education Authority, not my Department, provides the operational guidance to schools. Therefore, it, first and foremost, needs to ensure that its guidance complies with the Supreme Court ruling. I am clear on the approach that needs to be taken in light of the UK Supreme Court ruling. In my response to the original question, I outlined where we need to be on those issues. As my officials continue to review the implications of the UK Supreme Court ruling, we will take further steps in that regard.

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

Question 6 been withdrawn.

Joanne Bunting (DUP, Belfast East)

7. Ms Bunting asked the Minister of Education whether he will review the criteria for nursery-school places. (AQO 1965/22-27)

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

Admissions criteria are set by preschool providers, taking into account guidance provided by the Department, and thus the Department cannot amend them. However, legislation requires that providers must prioritise children from socially disadvantaged circumstances in their admissions criteria. I am of the view that that legislative priority needs to be revised. It was established at a time when preschool education was not universal to prioritise the children who would benefit most from access to preschool education. Today, every child whose parents want it has access to a year of funded preschool education, so the original purpose for the priority criterion no longer applies.

My Department carried out a public consultation exercise in 2021, seeking views on proposals to amend or remove the priority criterion. It was clear from the consultation and stakeholder engagement that, overall, there is no longer support for the indefinite retention of a statutory priority criterion in the context of the universal provision of preschool education for every child whose parents want it. However, there was a lack of consensus on when that change should take place, with indications that the removal of the criterion would only be widely supported when all children had access to 22·5 hours of preschool education per week. It is my intention to move to a position where 22·5 hours is the standard offer for all children and the legislative criterion can then be removed completely.

Work on the standardisation programme is well under way, and I have already approved the first 106 preschool settings to transition to the standardised session length from September 2025. I want to transition a further 100 settings for September 2026. The full roll-out of the 22·5-hour offer will, however, take some time to achieve and will require significant ongoing investment by the Executive.

Joanne Bunting (DUP, Belfast East)

I am really grateful to the Minister for that comprehensive answer, because, as he well knows, the current criteria are proving really detrimental to working families, who either struggle to get their child placed and end up paying for childcare or get their child placed far from home. I give credit to the Minister for providing financial assistance with childcare to thousands of homes across Northern Ireland. He has given some indication of the timeline, but can he tell us how long it will take before everybody has access to 22·5 hours? What can be done to assist working parents in the interim?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

The child subsidy scheme, which this party developed, executed and took forward, is already helping to meet some of the costs for those families. We can develop the 22·5-hour standardisation. We have already brought 106 settings online for the next academic year. I want to bring another 100 online for 2026. The more resource that my Department gets, the more I can accelerate the process, but I want every child to be able to get that full-time provision.

In 1998, when the criterion was added, there were 11,000 funded preschool education places. That meant that only 45% of children in their immediate preschool year could access a funded place. That was the basis on which the criterion came in. Now, 100% of children can get a funded preschool place, but it is the inequality of some getting full-time places and others getting part-time places that causes a lot of consternation among hard-working families who do not get the benefit of a full-time place. I want that to be addressed as soon as possible, and we are working towards achieving that over the next number of years. However, in the interim, the criterion exists. It is there by way of legislation, so it would require a change at Executive and Assembly level.

John Blair (Alliance, South Antrim)

That ends the period for listed questions. We now move to 15 minutes of topical questions. Topical question 8 has been withdrawn.

Cara Hunter (Social Democratic and Labour Party, East Londonderry)

T1. Ms Hunter asked the Minister of Education what he would say today to the young people and their families who are deeply disappointed that they did not get into to their first-choice secondary school after years of hard work and lots of effort. (AQT 1291/22-27)

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I commend the young people who have come through their primary-school education. The period of moving to post-primary school can be a challenging one. There will, undoubtedly, have been disappointment for some over the weekend, but they should not allow that disappointment to define who they are. Every school that we have will give a child an opportunity to succeed. We are ensuring through our approach in TransformED that there is an education system in which every child gets the best possible opportunity. I appreciate that there will have been disappointment, but they should not allow that to define them. There will be the opportunity to continue their education and career in Northern Ireland.

Cara Hunter (Social Democratic and Labour Party, East Londonderry)

Minister, will you commit to ending all forms of academic selection as part of your agenda for educational reform, given the well-documented stress and anxiety that our young people experience when sitting the test, for example?

Paul Givan (DUP, Lagan Valley)

I have addressed that issue before in the Assembly, including earlier in Question Time. We can have a circular conversation about academic selection. For over 20 years, that conversation has been taking place with no consensus being achieved. Academic selection has its supporters, and there are those who do not support it. I can engage in that debate and give my view, but the situation will not change. However, we can change every school, irrespective of the sector from which it comes, through the support that we will provide to every school leader and every teacher. The core of TransformED is about providing support for teacher professional learning. Every child will get the best possible opportunity in the classroom. I am determined to make sure that we have a world-class education system.